A HTG Founding Principle Terms

Constitutionalism

people rule through direct assembly by acting on the constitution

Liberalism

“permanent process of public negotiation,” individual liberty, moral worth, tolerant of different beliefs, justify government, private individuals, protection, your individual rights

Republicanism

public minded model of governance, patriotism, advance public at expense of personal interest, citizens, active participation, civic/public virtue (willing to sacrifice self-interest for public good), rights with responsibilities (similar to church)

American exceptionalism

America is unique and different and requires it own political thought

Thick Christianity

christianity that has high investment and high return, strong connections, and is healthy (Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints)

• Demanding practices → confidence in who we are

• History of persecution → empathy for others

• Belief in agency → reconciliation > dominance

Civic theology

God expects us to follow the commandments in our personal and civic lives