Copy of Chapter_03

Popular Sovereignty

The principle that asserts the people are the source of any and all government power, existing only with the consent of the governed.

Limited Government

A principle stating that government is restricted in what it may do, and individuals have rights that government cannot take away.

Separation of Powers

The principle that divides government into three independent and coequal branches: executive, legislative, and judicial.

Checks and Balances

A system that allows each branch of government to monitor and restrain the actions of the others.

Judicial Review

The power of a court to determine the constitutionality of governmental actions.

Federalism

A system of government in which powers are divided between a central government and several local governments.

Formal Amendment

A change to the Constitution that alters its written language.

Bill of Rights

The first ten amendments to the Constitution that guarantee fundamental rights and freedoms.

Informal Amendment

Changes to the Constitution that occur over time without altering the written word.

Executive Agreement

A pact made by the President directly with the head of a foreign state, not requiring Senate approval.