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

Civics Unit 1 flashcards

Majority Rule

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

Federalism

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

Republicanism (Representative Democracy)

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

Fundamental

Serving as a foundation or source or origin.

Separation of Powers

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

Democracy

A system of government where the people rule.

Direct Democracy

Every citizen votes directly on every issue.

Popular Sovereignty (Consent of the Governed)

All power in government comes from the permission of the people; the people give power and authority to the government, in return for protection of their rights.

Checks and Balances

A system that allows each branch of government to change or reject things that other branches do to stop them from getting too much power.

Principle

A basic truth or fundamental law.

Limited Government

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

Rule of Law

Everyone has to obey the law, including government officials.