Foundations of American Democracy: Key Concepts

These flashcards cover foundational concepts of American democracy, including Enlightenment thought, the Constitution, types of democracy, and key historical debates surrounding federalism.

What were Thomas Hobbes' views on government as described in his work 'The Leviathan'?

Hobbes believed that a strong absolute power was necessary for stability and order, and was preferable to the chaotic 'natural' state of people.

What is the concept of 'Social Contract' as discussed by Enlightenment thinkers?

The Social Contract is an agreement between the government and the governed, where the government secures natural rights while the people follow the law.

What is the significance of the Declaration of Independence?

It created a moral and legal justification for declaring independence from Britain and emphasized popular sovereignty.

What were the major weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation?

The federal government couldn't levy taxes, build an army, or regulate commerce.

What is the purpose of the Constitution's checks and balances?

To establish a system of separate powers among government branches and to create a balance between majority rule and minority rights.

Define Representative Democracy.

A system where elected officials represent the people's concerns.

What differentiates Participatory Democracy from Representative Democracy?

Participatory Democracy involves direct voting on laws by the people, while Representative Democracy involves elected officials making decisions.

Who were the Federalists and what did they advocate?

Federalists, like Alexander Hamilton and James Madison, wanted to ratify the Constitution and believed in a strong national government.

What was 'Brutus' No. 1's main argument?

It argued that a national representative system would be inefficient due to competition and would undermine local powers and personal liberties.

What is the Bill of Rights and why was it pushed for by Anti-Federalists?

The Bill of Rights consists of the first ten amendments to the Constitution that guarantee individual liberties, deemed necessary by Anti-Federalists to ensure rights were protected.