Unit 1 Principles and Documents (Civics & Economics 8H)

Federalism

A system of government where power is divided between the central government and the states.

My words: A system where the power is equal.

Majority Rule

The government must do what the majority of people vote for.

My words: A government controlled by a majority vote.

Separation of Powers

DIviding governments into branches with different powers so that no one branch becomes too powerful.

My words: Dividing power equally through branches of government.

Fundamental

Serving as a foundation or source or origin.

My words: Something everything is built from.

Rule of law

Everyone must obey the law, including government officials.

My words: The magna carta.

Republicanism (Representative Democracy)

A government where citizens elect representatives to make decisions, laws and run the government for them (on their behalf)

My words: A government where citizens elect representatives.

Democracy

A system of government where the people rule.

My words: People rule the government.

Principle

A basic truth of law.

Direct Democracy

Every citizen votes directly on every issue.

Popular Sovreignty

The idea that all power in the government comes from the people; the people five power and authority to the government.

Checks and balances

Each branch is able to check the power of the other branches in order to maintain a balance of power in government.

Limited government.

The government is not all-powerful and may do only those things the people have giving it power to do.