Key Concepts in Government and Political Philosophy

Anarchy

No government, lawless society (ex: state of nature, failed states).

Creation Mandate

God's command to humans in Genesis: rule the earth, use authority responsibly.

Power of the Courts

Judicial review; courts interpret laws & can declare them unconstitutional.

Patriotism

Love, loyalty, and devotion to one's country.

Radicalism

Favoring extreme, rapid change in society/government.

Greek Government

Birthplace of democracy (Athens = direct democracy).

Roman Government

Republic system with elected representatives and written law (Twelve Tables).

Popular Vote

Citizens' votes directly decide outcome (ex: state referendums, propositions).

Legislative

Makes laws (Congress).

Executive

Enforces laws (President).

Judicial

Interprets laws (Courts).

Delegated Powers

Powers given to federal government (ex: declare war, coin money).

Reserved Powers

Powers kept by states (ex: education, marriage laws).

Magna Carta

1215 English document limiting king's power, basis for rule of law.

Mayflower Compact

1620 agreement by Pilgrims for self-government & majority rule.

Pluralism

Many groups share power & influence in government.

Social Contract

People give up some freedom to gov't in exchange for protection (Hobbes, Locke).

Natural Law

Universal moral principles from nature/reason, higher than human law.

Direct Democracy

Citizens vote directly on laws (ex: Ancient Athens, town meetings).

Confederacy

Loose union of states (ex: Articles of Confederation).

Oligarchy

Rule by few (ex: Sparta, modern elites in some countries).

Monarchy

Rule by one king/queen (ex: England before Parliament's rise).

Dictatorship

Rule by one with absolute power (ex: North Korea).

Democracy

Rule by people (US, modern nations).

Presidential System

Separation of powers; president elected separately from legislature (ex: USA).

Parliamentary System

Executive (prime minister) chosen by legislature; powers combined (ex: UK).

The Reformation

Religious movement (1500s) stressing individual conscience; influenced ideas of liberty & limited government.

John Locke

Philosopher; natural rights (life, liberty, property), gov't protects rights, people can overthrow unjust gov't.