AP World: Modern - Vocabulary Building

Monotheism

Belief in one god.

Example: Christianity, Islam, Judaism.

Polytheism

Belief in multiple gods who may have different roles or powers. Example: Ancient Greek religion, Hindu traditions

Syncretism

The blending of different religious beliefs or practices into a new form. Often happens when cultures interact.

Pilgrimage

A religious journey to a sacred place for worship, spiritual growth, or to fulfill a religious duty.

Missionaries

People who travel to spread their religion and convert others to their beliefs.

Conversion

The process of changing from one religion to another or accepting a new religious belief system.

Bureaucracy

A system of government where appointed officials and departments manage the state and carry out laws.

Political Elites

A small group of people who have more power, wealth, or influence in making political decisions.

Centralization (Centralized)

When power is concentrated in a central government instead of being controlled by local areas.

Decentralization (Decentralized)

When power is spread among local or regional governments rather than controlled by one central authority.

Legitimacy

The widespread belief and acceptance by the citizens that their government has the lawful and rightful authority to rule, leading people to willingly obey its laws.

Meritocracy

A system where government jobs, power, and promotions are given to individuals based strictly on their proven abilities, knowledge, and achievements, rather than wealth or connections.

Democracy

A political system where supreme power rests with the citizens, who govern the country either directly or by electing representatives in free and fair elections

Totalitarianism

A government that tries to control almost every part of people’s lives, including politics, media, and society.

Theocracy

A system of government ruled by religious officials, or a state where all civil laws are directly based on religious doctrines and holy texts

Mandate

The official permission and authority given to a political leader or government by the voters, usually expressed through a clear victory in an election.

Nationalism

A political ideology that places the interests, culture, and independence of one’s own nation above all else, focusing heavily on national sovereignty and unity.

Absolutism (Autocracy)

A system where unlimited, unchecked power is held entirely by a single ruler, such as a monarch, whose decisions are not restricted by any laws or constitution.

Dictatorship

A form of government where power is seized and held by force by a single leader or a small group, where political opposition is banned and human rights are ignored.