natural rights

based on the reasoning of john locke that all humans haev the right to life liberty and property and are considered to be part of the laws of nature

state of nature

no governmet or laws exist at all absolute freedom with chaos

consent of the governed

the idea that government legitimacy comes from the permission of the people it governs, requiring their agreement to be ruled.

social contract

an agreement among individuals to form a government that respects and protects their natural rights, trading some freedoms for security and order.

classical republicanism

a political philosophy emphasizing civic participation, the common good, and the importance of virtue in governance.

civic virtue

the quality of citizens putting the common good above their own interests, essential for a thriving republic.

common good

the benefit or interests of all members of a community, prioritizing collective well-being over individual gain.

minority rights 

the rights and protections afforded to individuals or groups that are not part of the dominant majority, ensuring equitable treatment and inclusion in decision-making.

rule of law

the principle that all individuals and institutions are accountable to the law, ensuring equality and fairness in its application regardless of status.

faction

a group within a larger group that has goals adverse to those of the common good

math