Issues in Democracy and Government Structure

Flashcards covering key concepts of voter apathy, electoral systems, and the structure of American government.

Voter Apathy

A growing lack of citizen interest and involvement in government and politics.

Proportional Representation

An electoral system where seats in the legislature are assigned based on the percentage of votes each party receives.

First Past the Post (FPTP)

An electoral system where the candidate with the most votes wins, regardless of whether they achieve a majority.

Single-Issue Parties

Political parties that focus on one specific issue to gain traction.

Extremist Parties

Political parties that may hold extreme political views, such as far-left or far-right ideologies.

Political Disengagement

A state where citizens are not actively participating in political processes.

Checks and Balances

A system that ensures no one branch of government becomes too powerful by allowing each branch to limit the powers of the others.

Judicial Branch

The branch of government responsible for interpreting laws, which in the US includes the Supreme Court.

Cabinet

A group of high-ranking officials, typically consisting of the heads of executive departments, appointed by the president.

Legislative Branch

The branch of government responsible for making laws, which in the US includes the House of Representatives and Senate.