Government Systems and Enlightenment Thinkers (Video Notes)

Flashcards covering forms of government, Enlightenment thinkers, and the three branches of government based on Page 1 notes.

What is Anarchy?

A state with no central government in control; individuals look out for themselves.

What is Monarchy?

Autocratic rule by a single monarch (king or queen), with succession often by heirs.

What is Theocracy?

A government that recognizes God as ultimate authority and uses religious texts as law.

What is Oligarchy?

Rule by a small group, often based on wealth, race, or social class.

What defines Democracy?

Citizens hold power in the government.

What is Representative Democracy?

Citizens elect representatives who act on their behalf in lawmaking and governance.

What is Direct Democracy?

All eligible citizens participate directly in decision-making, including voting on laws.

What is a Dictatorship?

Autocratic rule by one leader who has absolute control, often seized by force.

What did John Locke believe about government?

No divine right of monarchy; government exists by the consent of the governed and protects natural rights to life and liberty (and property).

What principle did Montesquieu advocate?

Separation of powers to prevent the concentration of power.

What did Rousseau believe about society?

Society is governed by the general will of the people.

What did Voltaire advocate?

Freedom of religion and expression; separation of church and state.

What did Wollstonecraft argue?

Equality of men and women; rational rights and women's education.

What did Beccaria argue?

Opposed the death penalty and torture; supported humane, proportionate punishment and due process.

What is the legislative branch?

The law-making branch of government (creates laws).

What is the executive branch?

The branch that enforces laws; led by the president or prime minister.

What is the judicial branch?

The branch that interprets and applies laws; courts decide legality and cases.