Module 1 Gov DBA

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Authority

The legal power to make decisions and enforce laws

Anarchy

A society with no government or laws

Public policy

Government plans or actions that solve public problems

Institution

An organization that helps society function, such as schools or courts

Infrastructure

Basic systems like roads, bridges, water, and electricity

U.S. Constitution

The supreme law of the United States that creates the government and protects rights

Common good

What benefits society as a whole

Consent

Permission or agreement of the people to be governed

Rule of Law

The idea that everyone, including government leaders, must obey the law

Legitimacy

The public's belief that a government has the right to rule

Divine right of kings

The belief that kings receive their power directly from God

Tyranny

Cruel or unfair use of government power

Democracy

A government where citizens have the power to vote and participate

Republic

A government where people elect representatives to make decisions

Republicanism

The belief that elected representatives should govern for the people

Magna Carta

A document signed in 1215 that limited the king's power

English common law

Laws based on court decisions and customs

European Enlightenment 

A movement that emphasized reason, natural rights, and limited government

Constitutionalism

The principle that government power is limited by a constitution

What is the purpose of having a government?

To maintain order, protect people's rights, provide public services, defend the nation, and promote the common good

What are two examples of how government affects your daily life?

• Public schools provide education.

• Police and traffic laws help keep people safe.

Identify the five important features of law for rule of law to be effective.

1. Laws apply equally to everyone.

2. Laws are publicly known.

3. Laws are fairly enforced.

4. An independent court system exists.

5. Government officials must also obey the law.

Why is the idea of limited government important?

It prevents government from becoming too powerful and protects individual rights and freedoms.

Natural rights

People are born with rights like life, liberty, and property

Social contract

People agree to follow laws, and the government agrees to protect their rights

Popular sovereignty

Government gets its power from the people

National sovereignty

A nation's right to govern itself