Fall 2026 Central Repository

Legitimacy

A ruler or leader is given the RIGHT to rule and is morally and legally accepted. Comes from elections, rule of law, protecting rights

Rule of Law

Everyone in a society is equally accountable and must obey the same clear and public laws

Power

The ability to influence decisions and people. Power comes from authority but also public support, persuasion, and resources. In an ideal democracy, power flows from a legitimate authority

Democracy

form of government where political power is exercised by the people, directly or through elected representatives. Provides the framework for how power, authority, and legitimacy operate.

Social Responsibility

Our duty to ensure the wellbeing of the community and each other. Pushes back on absolute liberty and asks: to what extent should freedom be limited to ensure fairness/justice?

Liberty

The freedom to act, think, and live without government interference. Liberty can conflict with equality when one person’s freedom limits another person’s well-being.

Freedom vs Liberty

Freedom is your personal ability to act, think, and live without government interference or control. Liberty refers to your protected status within a community. . It means an authority (like a constitution) recognizes your rights and limits its own power to interfere with you

Equality

Everyone should have the same political rights and access to opportunity.

Resources

Tools that can be used to gain or exercise power such as media access, education, and wealth. Those who control more resources often have more power.