The Ultimate Guide to AP United States Government and Politics (copy)

Enlightenment

An 18th century philosophical movement emphasizing reason over tradition in solving social problems.

Natural rights

Rights that all individuals are entitled to, including life, liberty, and property, as proposed by John Locke.

Social contract

An agreement between individuals and their government; individuals surrender some freedoms for government protection.

Federalism

A system of government where power is shared between a central authority and regional governments.

Republicanism

A political ideology that supports individualism, natural rights, and civic participation.

Popular sovereignty

The principle that government power comes from the consent of the governed.

Articles of Confederation

The first constitution adopted by the United States, which established a weak national government.

Shays’ Rebellion

A protest movement in 1786-1787 led by farmers against economic injustices and the lack of government response.

Judicial review

The power of the judiciary to review laws and actions of the executive and legislative branches for constitutionality.

Bill of Rights

The first ten amendments to the US Constitution that guarantee individual rights.

Selectively incorporated rights

The process by which the Supreme Court applies the Bill of Rights to the states on a case-by-case basis.

Clear and present danger test

A legal standard used to determine when speech is not protected by the First Amendment.

Federalist Papers

A collection of articles and essays written to promote the ratification of the United States Constitution.

Electoral College

A body of electors established by the Constitution, which formally elects the President and Vice President.

Interest groups

Organizations of people with shared objectives that seek to influence public policy.

Political action committees (PACs)

Organizations that raise and spend money to elect or defeat political candidates.

Civil Rights Act

Landmark legislation that outlawed discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin in various areas.

Mixed economy

An economic system that incorporates elements of both capitalism and government intervention.

Public opinion

The collective attitudes and beliefs of individuals on specific issues or topics.

Incrementalism

A gradual approach to policy making, where changes are made step-by-step.