Politics and law chapter 1 notes

Democracy

A form of government where people govern themselves.

Sovereignty

The right to govern a territory and its people.

Direct Democracy

A form of democracy in which all citizens participate directly.

Liberalism

The idea that all people have basic entitlements, including political and legal rights and freedoms.

Liberal Democracy

A full democracy that combines liberalism with democratic principles, ensuring rights and freedoms.

Majority Rule

The principle that the majority's decisions must prevail in decision-making.

Political Rights

Rights that enable citizens to participate in government and political life.

Representative Democracy

A form of democracy where citizens elect representatives to govern on their behalf.

Parliamentary Sovereignty

The principle that parliament is the supreme legal authority and can create or end any law.

Responsible Government

A government that is accountable to the parliament and must maintain its confidence.

Electorate

The area represented by a parliamentarian.

Compulsory Voting

The requirement for citizens to participate in elections.

Political Freedoms

Freedoms that allow individuals to participate in political processes.

Elected Representatives

Individuals who are chosen through elections to represent the interests of citizens.

Constitutional Monarchy

A form of government where a monarch acts as head of state within the boundaries of a constitution.

Tyranny of the Majority

A situation where the majority's interests undermine the rights of minority groups.

Constitutionalism

The principle that government power must be limited by law.

Illiberal Democracy

A democracy that does not fully protect the rights and freedoms of individuals.

Political Participation

The active involvement of citizens in politics and governance.

Majority Rule in Referendums

A requirement of a double majority for formal constitutional changes in Australia.

Equality of Political Rights

The entitlement of all citizens to have equal political influence.

Freedom of Assembly

The right to gather publicly or privately for peaceful activities.

Freedom of Speech

The right to express one's opinions freely.

Political Parties

Groups organized to gain political power and influence governance.

Judicial Independence

The principle that the judiciary must remain separate from other branches of government.

Rule of Law

The principle that all individuals and institutions are subject to and accountable under the law.

Arbitrary Power

Power exercised without regard to established rules or laws.

Presumption of Innocence

The legal principle that one is considered innocent until proven guilty.

Electoral Accountability

The obligation of elected officials to answer to the electorate for their actions.

Commonwealth Parliament

The nationally elected representative body in Australia.

Court Systems

The judiciary branch that interprets laws and administers justice.

Political Rights Enable Participation

Political rights that allow individuals to engage in the political process.

Electoral System

The method used to calculate the results of elections and to determine how votes are translated into seats.

Political Change

Alterations to policies, laws, or governance structures influenced by citizens.

Administrative Power

The power to implement and carry out government decisions.

Voter Registration

The process by which eligible citizens sign up to vote in elections.

Civil Justice Accessibility

The ability of individuals to obtain fair judicial relief in civil matters.

Judges' Impartiality

The impartial nature of judges ensuring fair trials.

Majority Coalition

A group formed by parties that hold the majority of seats in parliament.

Constitutional Rights

Rights and freedoms guaranteed by a constitution.

Political Engagement

Active participation in political processes and discussions.

Legislation Process

The steps through which a bill becomes a law.

Rights of Permanent Residents

Restrictions on voting rights for non-citizens living in a country.

Public Office

A position of authority within the government, typically elected.

Civil Responsibilities

Obligations of citizens to engage in the civic process for the betterment of society.

Voting System

The rules and methods that govern how voters can express their preferences.

Political Advocacy

The act of supporting a particular cause or policy in politics.

Judicial Review

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

Election Fraud

Illegal interference with the election process.

Minority Rights

The rights and privileges afforded to groups not in the majority.

Transparency in Government

The principle that politicians and officials should act openly and provide clear information.

Electoral Competition

The rivalry among candidates and parties to win elections.

Democratic Authority

The legitimacy to govern derived from the consent of the governed.

Political Accountability

The obligation of public officials to be answerable for their actions.

Censorship

The suppression of speech, public communication, or other information.

Civic Duty

The responsibility of citizens to participate in their government and community.

Federalism

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

Public Policy

The principles and decisions that guide government action.

Universal Healthcare

A health care system that provides health services to all citizens.

Campaign Finance

The fundraising and spending associated with political campaigns.