Foundations of the United States' Representative Democracy

Flashcards covering benefits and challenges of democracy, levels of government, separation of powers, and American political culture from Chapter One.

What is a fundamental benefit of democracy that enables individuals to govern themselves?

It allows for self-governance.

What is another benefit related to participation in governance at different levels?

The people have the ability to participate in governance at different levels.

How can citizens influence the policies they favor according to democratic benefits?

They can advocate for themselves and the policies they favor.

How can citizens alter aspects of their government in a democracy?

By voting for different representatives, advocating for new laws, and demanding amendments to the constitution.

What foundation does democracy provide regarding political liberty, economic equality, and social justice?

It provides the foundation for protecting political liberty, achieving economic equality, and ensuring social justice.

What mechanism does democracy provide to ensure leaders are accountable?

Mechanisms for affirming that leaders are subject to the people and to the laws.

How do laws, constitutional structures, and institutions relate to the people’s interests and values?

They can represent the people’s interests and values.

What is a challenge where the majority might ignore or repress the minority?

The majority might ignore or repress the minority.

What challenge arises when too many voices hinder policy advancement?

Too many voices can hinder the advancement of policy.

What issue concerns representation in a democracy?

Not everyone may be equally represented.

What risk involves electing demagogues or unworthy politicians?

The people can elect demagogues or politicians unworthy of their office.

What does polarization refer to in a democratic context?

Polarization (extreme division) of political views can fracture national unity.

What is a challenge related to commitment to the democratic system?

The requirement that leaders and citizens are committed to its preservation can prove difficult.

What powers does the National Government have under Article I, Section 8?

The power to tax, regulate commerce, provide for the common defense, create naturalization laws, and other powers.

What authority do State Governments possess?

Jurisdiction to make laws for their state, create constitutions, establish counties and towns, and tax, among other powers.

What issues are typically handled by Local Governments?

Local issues such as schools, utilities, roads, municipal taxes, parks, and law enforcement; they include counties and cities within counties.

What is an advantage of separation of powers in the U.S.?

Prevents one person or group from having absolute control and helps prevent tyranny.

How does separation of powers affect the legislative process?

It forces compromise among branches and encourages debate and deliberation.

What is another key advantage of separation of powers?

Ensures specialization of officials over their area of authority.

What liberty is protected by the separation of powers?

Protects individual liberties, such as the rights of the accused.

What is a common disadvantage of separation of powers?

Gridlock and protracted, drawn-out procedures for making laws and coordinating between branches.

What confusion can arise from separation of powers?

Confusion about the status and interpretation of laws, statutes, judicial opinions, executive orders, and mandates.

What does political culture encompass?

The common, recognizable, and deep-seated beliefs of the people about politics, government, society, community, and public moral behavior.

Is American political culture uniform across the country?

No; it is complex with regional and cultural differences; some areas are more individualistic, others more communal or traditional.

What are some national values cherished by many Americans?

Liberty, individualism, equality, capitalism, and self-government.

How do regional differences manifest in American political culture?

Some areas are more individualistic, while others are more communal or traditional.