Foundations of American Government Vocabulary

Vocabulary flashcards covering core concepts, theories, and institutional structures of American government.

Politics

The process of influencing the actions and policies of government.

Government

The rules and institutions that make up a system of policymaking.

Democracy

A system of government in which the people have political power.

Natural rights

Rights to life, liberty, and property that government cannot take away.

Social contract

The idea that people allow government to rule in exchange for an orderly and functioning society.

American political culture

The beliefs, customs, traditions, and values that Americans share.

Popular sovereignty

The idea that the government's right to rule comes from the people.

Republicanism

A system in which the government's authority comes from the people, who elect representatives.

Inalienable rights

Rights that cannot be taken away or given up.

Liberty

Freedom from unreasonable government control or restrictions.

Participatory democracy

A theory that widespread political participation is essential for democratic government.

Civil society groups

Independent associations outside the government's control.

Pluralist theory

A theory of democracy that emphasizes the role of groups in the policymaking process.

Elitist theory

A theory that elites have a disproportionate amount of influence in the policymaking process.

Political institutions

The structure of government, including the executive, legislature, and judiciary.

Constitutional republic

A democratic system with elected representatives in which the Constitution is the supreme law.