Key Concepts in Democracy and Political Institutions

These flashcards cover key vocabulary and concepts related to democracy, political institutions, and the principles that underlie democratic governance.

Democracy

A form of government in which the power is vested in the people, who rule either directly or through freely elected representatives.

Formal Institutions

Institutions based on clear and official rules usually written, created and enforced by the state.

Informal Institutions

Socially shared rules that are usually unwritten and enforced outside of officially sanctioned channels.

Vertical Accountability

Direct engagement of the people in the decision-making process through mechanisms such as voting, petitions, and deliberations.

Horizontal Accountability

Distribution of power among various branches of government to prevent concentration of authority.

Civil Liberties

Fundamental rights and freedoms that protect individuals from government overreach, such as freedom of press, speech, assembly, and association.

Authoritarianism

A political system in which a single entity or party holds significant power and authority over the state, often limiting personal freedoms.

Liberal Democracy

A form of government characterized by free and fair elections, the rule of law, civil liberties, and the protection of individual rights.

Participation

The active involvement of individuals in the political process, including voting, advocating, and engaging in public discourse.

Distributed Power

The principle that power and authority should be spread across various institutions and actors to prevent tyranny.

Electoral Democracy

A system of government in which leaders are chosen through competitive elections, and citizens have the right to vote.

Associational Autonomy

The right for individuals to associate freely with groups and organizations without interference from the state.

Rule of Law

The principle that all individuals and institutions are accountable to laws that are publicly promulgated, equally enforced, and independently adjudicated.

Separation of Powers

Dividing government responsibilities into distinct branches to limit any one branch from exercising the core functions of another.

Constitutionalism

Adherence to a system of government that is limited by a constitution, establishing the framework for political authority and individual rights.

Civil Society

The arena of voluntary associations and organizations that exist between the state and the individual, allowing for public discourse and collective action.

What are the three integral ingredients to a democracy?

1. Citizen participation in the political process. 2. Mechanisms for government accountability (both vertical and horizontal). 3. Protection of civil liberties and adherence to the rule of law.