Unit 1 Chapter 1 QUESTIONS

Vocabulary flashcards based on Unit 1 Chapter 1 questions regarding government, politics, forms of democracy, and foundational political concepts.

Government vs. Politics

Government refers to the formal institutions and structures that govern a territory, while politics refers to the processes and activities through which power and resources are allocated.

Participatory Democracy

A model of democracy emphasizing broad public involvement and direct citizen participation in policy decisions.

Pluralist Democracy

A model of democracy in which competing non-governmental groups and interest organizations influence government decision-making.

Elite Democracy

A model of democracy in which a limited group of wealthy, educated, or powerful individuals dominate political decision-making.

Natural Rights

Inalienable rights inherent to all individuals—such as life, liberty, and property—that governments are created to protect.

Social Contract Theory

The political principle that individuals surrender some freedom to authority in exchange for protection of their fundamental rights.

Popular Sovereignty

The core democratic principle that political power originates from the consent and authority of the people.