Political Science and Government Overview

These flashcards cover key concepts related to political science and government definitions, types, and important ideas derived from the provided lecture notes.

Political Science

The study of government and how society organizes itself.

Government

A system by which a society organizes itself and allocates authority to accomplish collective goals.

Social Contract

A theory by Hobbes, Locke, and Rousseau that explains the agreements made among individuals to form a government.

Democracy

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

Political Ideology

A set of beliefs and ideas about society and politics that shape government and policy.

Unalienable Rights

Fundamental rights that cannot be taken away, including life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.

Republic

A form of government in which the country is considered a 'public matter' and is not the private concern or property of the rulers.

Equality of Opportunity

The belief that everyone should have the same chances to advance and succeed, regardless of their background.

Federalism

A political system where power is divided between a central government and regional governments.

Collective Goals

Objectives that a group or society seeks to achieve together.