Political Science Concepts Review for Exam

These flashcards cover key political concepts and terminology relevant to American Politics and the Constitution, aiding in exam preparation.

American Political Values

Core values that include liberty, democracy, and equality.

Checks and Balances

A system that ensures no one branch of government becomes too powerful.

Collective Action Problems

Challenges that arise when individuals must work together to achieve a common goal.

Direct Democracy

A form of democracy in which people vote directly on laws and policies.

Free Rider Problem

A situation in which individuals benefit from resources they do not pay for, leading to under-provision.

Federalism

A system of government in which power is divided between a central authority and constituent political units.

Judicial Review

The power of courts to assess whether a law is in compliance with the constitution.

Marbury v Madison

The landmark case that established the principle of judicial review in the United States.

Political Pluralism

A condition in which multiple different groups with varying opinions coexist within a political system.

Separation of Powers

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

Bicameralism

The practice of having two legislative or parliamentary chambers.

Majority vs. Minority Rights

The principle that the majority's decision must not infringe upon the rights of the minority.

Republicanism

A political ideology centered on citizenship in a state organized as a republic.

Sovereign Power

The ultimate authority in decision-making and maintaining order of the state.

Statutory Authority

The power of a government body to enact laws and regulations.

Whistle Blowing

Reporting unethical or illegal actions within an organization.

Veto

The right of a branch of government to reject a decision or proposal made by another branch.

Impeachment

The process by which a legislative body levels charges against a government official.

Social Contract

An implicit agreement among the members of a society to cooperate for social benefits.