AP Government 1.1 Terms

Alexis de Tocqueville

French philosopher who observed American democracy and warned of the dangers of individualism

Liberty

The ability for someone to freely pursue their life choices without retaliation

Equality

The universal respect for anyone, regardless of race, gender, or religious beliefs

Equality of Opportunity

The idea that anyone, regardless of background, should have an equal chance to succeed

Democracy

The ability for citizens to choose their representation in government

Rugged Individualism

People can succeed through hard work and no help from the government

Rule of Law

The power that the law has in controlling society

Nationalism

The strong loyalty to a nation and its people, culture, and ideas

Free Enterprise

The idea that government should stay out of regulating trade

Capitalism

The idea that businesses owns the means of production to generate profit

American Dream

The idea that anyone can achieve a better life with hard work

Civic duty

The responsibilities for a population to engage with the political process

Democracy in America

A book by Alexis de Tocqueville that examines American democracy through a European perspective

Political Culture

A society’s collective political values and their approach to government

Political Efficacy

Someone’s understanding of politics and participating in the political process

Political Tolerance

The respect for opposing political views

Individualism

The importance of an individual’s experience