Chapter 1: Introduction to limited government and classical theory

These flashcards cover key concepts from the lecture, focusing on the foundational political ideas and theories discussed.

Limited Government

The political principle that restricts government power and protects individual rights.

Natural Rights

The inherent rights that individuals possess, such as life, liberty, and property.

Social Contract

An agreement among individuals to create a government and give up some of their freedoms for protection of their rights.

Natural Right to Revolution

The principle that empowers individuals to overthrow a government that violates their rights.

Classical Theory

An older theory of government focusing on groups rather than individuals, asserting that society and government naturally form.

Monarchy

A form of government ruled by a single person, such as a king or queen.

Aristocracy

A government ruled by a select group of individuals, often assumed to be wise or noble.

Oligarchy

A form of government where a small group of people holds power, often serving their own interests.

Democracy

A system of government in which power is vested in the people, who rule either directly or through freely elected representatives.

Mob Rule

A situation in which a group of people acts without restraint or order, often resulting in chaos.

Mixed Regime

A government structure that combines elements of monarchy, aristocracy, and democracy to balance power.

Virtual Representation

The British parliament's claim that it represented all British subjects, regardless of geographic representation.

Geographic Representation

The principle that representatives should be elected from specific geographic constituencies.

Common Sense

A pamphlet written by Thomas Paine that argued for independence from Britain and promoted republicanism.

Pamphlet War

A period when numerous pamphlets were published to express colonial grievances and shape public opinion.