Foundations of American Democracy & Civil Liberties

Flashcards covering key concepts related to the Foundations of American Democracy and Civil Liberties.

Social Contract

The agreement that people give up some freedoms in trade for the government’s protection.

Popular Sovereignty

The principle that government rules at the consent of the governed.

Natural Rights

Rights that people are born with; according to Locke, these include life, liberty, and the pursuit of property.

Republicanism

A political ideology where the people elect representatives to govern on their behalf.

Federalism

The division of power among national, state, and local governments.

Limited Government

A governing body whose power exists only within pre-defined limits.

Factions

Groups of people acting in their own interest rather than the common good; discussed in Madison's Federalist 10.

John Locke

A philosopher who advocated for natural rights and democracy; believed rulers who infringe these rights should be removed.

Thomas Hobbes

A philosopher who argued that a strong central authority is essential to prevent chaos and violence.

Federalist Papers

A series of essays written to support the ratification of the Constitution.

Checks and Balances

Mechanisms by which each branch of government can limit the powers of the others.

Participatory Democracy

A type of democracy where citizens have direct participation in decision-making.

Pluralist Democracy

A political system where multiple groups fight for power and influence policy.

Elitist Democracy

A political system where a small group of educated and wealthy individuals hold significant influence.

Implied Powers

Powers not explicitly listed in the Constitution but necessary for the government to function.

Supremacy Clause

The constitutional provision that federal law takes precedence over state law.

Commerce Clause

The clause that gives Congress the power to regulate interstate commerce.

Judicial Review

The power of the courts to determine the constitutionality of legislative and executive actions.

Due Process Clause

The clause in the Constitution that guarantees fair treatment through the judicial system.

Civil Rights

The rights of individuals to receive equal treatment and not be discriminated against.

Civil Liberties

Individual freedoms that the government cannot infringe upon.

Clear and Present Danger Test

A standard for determining when speech can be limited, based on the potential harm it may cause.