AP Gov lecture note 1.1 & 1/2 of 1.2

A set of Q&A flashcards covering: social contract, natural rights, popular sovereignty, limited government and its four pillars (federalism, republicanism, separation of powers, checks and balances), types of democracy (participatory, pluralist, elite), the drafting and features of the U.S. Constitution, the Bill of Rights, the Federalists vs. Anti-Federalists, and The Federalist Papers.

What is the social contract?

An agreement between citizens and the government in which individuals willingly give up some freedoms in exchange for protection and the promotion of the common good.

What are natural rights?

Fundamental human rights inherent to all people, such as life, liberty, property, and the pursuit of happiness.

What is popular sovereignty?

The idea that ultimate political authority rests with the people who have the right to participate in decision-making.

What is limited government?

The concept that governmental power is restrained and defined by a constitution or laws, protecting individual rights from both others and the government.

What is federalism?

Power and responsibility are shared between the central government and regional governments, preventing over-concentration of power.

What is republicanism?

Power is held by the people and exercised through elected officials, emphasizing popular participation and accountability.

What is the separation of powers?

The division of government powers into three branches, each with its own responsibilities, to prevent any one branch from becoming too powerful.

What are checks and balances?

A system in which each branch can restrain and oversee the actions of the other branches to prevent domination.

What is participatory democracy?

A type of democracy where citizens actively and directly participate in decision-making (e.g., town halls, referendums, grassroots activism).

What is pluralist democracy?

A system that recognizes diverse interests and groups, allowing competition and negotiation among groups to influence policy-making.

What is elite democracy?

A system where a small, privileged group holds significant political power, with the majority having limited direct participation.

Who drafted the U.S. Constitution and when?

James Madison, at the Constitutional Convention in 1787, with help from Alexander Hamilton and members of the Grand Committee.

What is the Constitution’s function as a social contract?

It represents a voluntary agreement between the people and their government, outlining the powers and responsibilities of each.

How does the Constitution implement limited government in terms of federalism?

It divides powers between the federal government and the states, restricting the central government's power.

What does the Constitution say about separation of powers and checks and balances?

It outlines three branches and a system of checks and balances to ensure power is distributed and restrained.

What is the Bill of Rights?

Amendments protecting individual rights and liberties, further limiting the government's authority over personal freedoms.

Who were the Federalists?

Supporters of a strong national government (e.g., Alexander Hamilton; wealthy merchants and landowners) who favored elite governance and argued that a Bill of Rights was not strictly necessary.

Who were the Anti-Federalists (Democratic-Republicans)?

Supporters of weak central government and strong state government (e.g., Thomas Jefferson; laborers and small farmers) who argued for government of/by the common man and essential protection of liberties.

How many essays are in The Federalist Papers?

85 essays.

Who were the authors of The Federalist Papers?

Publius, a collective pseudonym for James Madison, Alexander Hamilton, and John Jay.

Who was the intended audience for The Federalist Papers?

The people of the state of New York.

What was the purpose of The Federalist Papers?

To encourage ratification of the Constitution.

What are the dates associated with The Federalist Papers as per the notes?

Fall 1786 to Spring 1788.