American Democracy and Political Ideologies

Flashcards covering foundational principles of American democracy, consent of the governed, majority rule, political culture, and the evolution of political ideologies.

Consent of the governed

The democratic concept, derived from John Locke's idea of a social contract, stating that government power comes from the consent of the people, giving them the right to revolt if consent is lost.

Social contract

John Locke's principle that people agree to a government's authority, but retain the right to revolt if the government no longer holds the consent of the governed.

Majority rule

The principle in a democracy that only policies receiving 50 percent plus one vote are enacted, establishing the majority's right to self-governance while typically protecting minority rights.

Individual

A preeminent feature of American democratic thought describing an independent, hearty entity exercising self-determination, upon whom rights are bestowed and by whom rights are exercised in the Constitution.

Family (in U.S. political culture)

The primary institution through which children first learn political behavior, serving to perpetuate American political culture.

Freedom of assembly

A right guaranteed by the First Amendment of the Constitution that allows individuals to form or join any type of organization, political party, or club without penalty.

Political ideology

An integrated system of ideas or beliefs about political values in general and the role of government in particular, serving as a framework for analyzing political events, policies, and society.

Modern liberalism

A political ideology associated with liberty and political equality that advocates social, political, and economic change, civil liberties, separation of church and state, and an active government role in ensuring political equality and economic opportunity.

Classical liberalism

The founding ideological root of liberalism emphasizing freedom of thought, limited governmental authority, consent of the governed, rule of law, an unfettered market economy, individual initiative, and access to free public education.