\begin{tabular}{l} The authors of your textbook seek to understand American government in \\ terms of which of the following? \\ patriotism \\ rules and goals \\ winners and losers \\ resource allocation \\ \hline\end{tabular}

The authors of your textbook seek to understand American government in terms of **rules and goals**. **Explanation:** Analyzing the American government through "rules and goals" involves examining the established laws, regulations, and institutional frameworks (rules) that govern political processes and decision-making. Additionally, it considers the objectives and aims (goals) that these institutions strive to achieve, such as maintaining order, ensuring justice, and promoting the general welfare. This approach provides a comprehensive understanding of how the government operates and the purposes it serves. **Why the other options are less likely:** - **Patriotism:** While national identity and patriotism can influence government policies and citizen behavior, they are more about the sentiments and values of the populace rather than the structural and functional aspects of government itself. - **Winners and Losers:** This perspective focuses on the outcomes of political processes, highlighting who benefits and who is disadvantaged. While important, it is a more specific lens compared to the broader analysis of rules and goals. - **Resource Allocation:** This economic perspective examines how resources are distributed through government policies. Although crucial, it represents just one aspect of governmental functions. **Correct Answer:** **Rules and goals**