AP GOV

Natural rights

Rights inherent to all humans, regardless of government; associated with philosophers like John Locke.

Popular sovereignty

The idea that the government's power comes from the people.

Republicanism

A representative form of government based on the consent of the governed.

Social contract

An agreement where individuals give up some freedoms for government protection.

Participatory democracy

Democracy that emphasizes broad participation in politics and civil society.

Pluralist democracy

Democracy that recognizes group-based activism striving to impact political decision-making.

Elite democracy

Democracy characterized by limited participation in politics, with decisions made by elected representatives.

Great (Connecticut) Compromise

Compromise that established a bicameral legislature with population-based House and equal representation Senate.

Electoral College

A body of electors representing the states who formally cast votes for the election of the president and vice president.

Three-Fifths Compromise

Agreement to count three-fifths of a state’s slaves for representation and taxation.

Separation of Powers

Distributing powers among the legislative, executive, and judicial branches.

Checks and Balances

A system that allows each branch of government to limit the powers of the other branches.

Federalism

The division of power between national and state governments.

Ratification

The debate between Federalists (who favored the Constitution) and Anti-Federalists (who opposed it).

Federalist Papers

Essays arguing for ratification of the Constitution; notable examples include No. 10 (factions) and No. 51 (separation of powers).

Enumerated/Expressed Powers

Powers specifically listed in the Constitution (Article I, Section 8).

Implied Powers

Powers not specifically listed but necessary to fulfill enumerated powers (found in the Necessary and Proper Clause).

Lawmaking Process

The process involves introduction, committee review, floor debate, passage in both houses, and presidential approval.

Judicial Review

The power to declare laws unconstitutional, established in Marbury v. Madison.

First Amendment

Protects freedom of speech, religion, press, assembly, and petition.

Establishment Clause

Prohibits the government from establishing a religion.

Free Exercise Clause

Protects the individual's right to practice their religion.

Civil Rights Act of 1964

Prohibits discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin.

Voting Rights Act of 1965

Prohibits racial discrimination in voting.

Liberalism

Political ideology that emphasizes individual rights, social justice, and government intervention in the economy.

Conservatism

Political ideology focusing on traditional values, limited government, and individual responsibility.

Socialism

Political ideology advocating for public ownership and control of the means of production.

Libertarianism

Political ideology maximizing individual liberty with minimal government intervention.