Foundations of American Democracy and Political Principles

These flashcards cover key concepts and terms related to the foundations of American democracy, political principles, and civil rights.

Natural rights

Rights all people are born with, including life, liberty, and property.

Social contract

The agreement among individuals to form a government to protect their rights.

Popular sovereignty

The principle that the authority of the government comes from the people.

Limited government

A government whose power is restricted by law.

Separation of powers

The division of power among the legislative, executive, and judicial branches.

Checks and balances

A system that ensures that no branch of government exceeds its power.

Federalism

The division of power between national and state governments.

Republicanism

A form of government where people elect representatives.

Declaration of Independence

The document asserting American independence from Britain.

Participatory democracy

A political system with broad participation of citizens.

Federalist 10

An essay arguing that a large republic can control factions.

Brutus 1

An essay arguing that smaller republics protect liberty better.

Shays' Rebellion

A revolt by farmers illustrating the weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation.

Great Compromise

Created a bicameral Congress, with House representation based on population and Senate having equal representation.

Electoral College

A system for indirectly electing the President.

Three-Fifths Compromise

Determined that three-fifths of slaves would be counted for representation and taxes.

Bill of Rights

The first ten amendments to the Constitution that protect individual liberties.

Judicial review

The power of courts to declare laws unconstitutional.

Judicial activism

When judges interpret the Constitution boldly to advance justice.

Judicial restraint

When judges defer decisions to the elected branches.

Stare decisis

The legal principle of adhering to precedent.

Iron triangles

Policy-making alliances between Congress, bureaucrats, and interest groups.

Civil rights

Protecting individuals from discrimination.

Civil liberties

Protections against government actions that infringe on individual freedoms.

Affirmative action

Policies favoring historically disadvantaged groups in areas such as education and employment.