Unit 2: Principles of the Constitution

For UNIT 2 part of the EOC

What is a principle

A fundamental truth or proposition that serves as the foundation for a system of belief, behavior, or reasoning.

What is due process

A legal requirement that the state must respect all legal rights owed to a person. It ensures fair treatment through the normal judicial system, especially in regard to a citizen's entitlement to notice and a hearing.

What is limited government

A governing body whose powers are restricted by the Constitution or laws, protecting individual rights and freedoms.

What are natural rights

Fundamental rights inherent to all individuals, including life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness, which cannot be surrendered or removed.

What is “Rule of Law”

The principle that all individuals and institutions are subject to and accountable under the law, which should be applied fairly and consistently. “No one is above the law”

List and describe the 6 beliefs that the rule of law is based on

1. Accountability to the law: How we act

2. Fair Procedures: Procedures used to decide if an accused person is guilty or innocent

3. Equality before the law: All individuals are treated equally without discrimination.

4. Transparency: Laws should be clear, publicized, and stable, providing guidance for behavior.

5. Enforcement: The law must be enforced impartially, without bias for or against any individual.

6. Independent Judiciary: Courts must be impartial and independent from other branches of government.

What is self-government

The concept that individuals have the right to govern themselves and make decisions about their own affairs, typically through elected representatives or direct participation in governance.

What is popular sovereignty

The authority of a state and its government is created and sustained by the consent of its people, through their elected representatives.

What is “Seperation of Powers”

A constitutional principle that divides the functions of government into distinct branches, typically the legislative, executive, and judicial branches, each with separate powers and responsibilities. This ensures that no single branch becomes too powerful.

What are “Checks and Balances”

A system that ensures that the different branches of government can limit each other's powers, preventing any one branch from becoming too powerful.

What is the purpose of government

To protect individual rights, maintain order, and promote the general welfare of the people.

In what five ways does the constitution create a limited government

The Constitution creates a limited government by establishing federalism, enumerating powers, implementing checks and balances, guaranteeing individual rights through the Bill of Rights, and allowing for amendments to adapt to social changes.