chapter 5 social studies

What does “democracy” mean?

A political system based on rule of law; free, fair, and frequent elections of candidates from at least two parties; and independent judiciary; and freedom of the press and other media from government control.

what does “government” mean?

A system by which a group of people makes the laws that are enforced to guide the affairs of a community, such as a country, province, or municipality.

what does “society” mean?

A group of interacting people who share a community.

what does “authoritarian” mean?

A form of decision making or a government system in which one person or a small group holds all power (dictatorship).

what does “consensus” mean?

A group decision reached through discussion to which all members agree.

what does “politics” mean?

A human activity in which opposing individuals or groups mobilize support to gain power to govern.

what does “power” mean?

the ability of an individual or group to get what it wants.

what does “common good” mean?

that which benefits all (or most) people in a community or society.

what does “rule of law” mean?

the principle that all governments, groups, and people in a society must obey the law.

what does “restitution” mean?

compensation by one party to another for a loss or injury.

what does “direct democracy” mean?

government in which all citizens directly participate in decision making without representatives.

what does “representative democracy” mean?

A democracy in which citizens periodically elect others to represent them in government.