Chapters 1-3 Book notes

What is the definition of government?

The institutions and processes that create and enforce laws and policies.

Define politics.

The struggle over power and influence within government that determines who gets what, when, and how.

List the functions of government.

1. Maintaining order 2. Providing public goods 3. Promoting equality 4. Protecting individual liberty.

What type of government is the U.S.?

A constitutional democracy where authority is limited by law.

Differentiate between direct democracy and representative democracy.

Direct democracy allows citizens to vote directly on laws; representative democracy involves citizens electing leaders to make decisions.

What is pluralism in the context of democracy?

Politics as competition among groups.

What does elitism refer to?

Politics dominated by wealthy or influential elites.

What is the significance of the Declaration of Independence?

It broke from Britain and embraced natural rights.

What was the role of state constitutions during the formation of the U.S. government?

They served as 'laboratories' for new ideas of governance.

What were the weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation?

No power to tax, regulate commerce, or enforce laws.

What was the Connecticut/Great Compromise?

Established a bicameral Congress with the House based on population and the Senate having equal representation.

Explain the concept of checks and balances.

Each branch of government limits the powers of the others.

What does federalism refer to?

A system where power is divided between national and state governments.

Identify the key clauses associated with U.S. federalism.

1. Supremacy Clause 2. Necessary & Proper Clause 3. Full Faith & Credit Clause.

What are categorical grants?

Federal funds given to states with strict rules on their use.

What is a current issue in federalism related to health care?

The Affordable Care Act.

What is meant by 'conflicted federalism'?

A mix of federalism where states sometimes resist federal policies.

Describe the main idea of American political culture.

Shared values include liberty, equality, capitalism, individualism, and the consent of the governed.

What did the Bill of Rights provide?

Protections for individual rights as the first ten amendments to the Constitution.

What does the Necessary & Proper Clause allow Congress to do?

It allows Congress to stretch its powers to fulfill its responsibilities.

What is the purpose of grants-in-aid in fiscal federalism?

To provide federal money to states for specific purposes.

What principles influenced U.S. Constitution drafting?

Natural law and social contract theory.

What characterized dual federalism?

Separate spheres for national and state governments.