U.S. Constitution - 6 Big Ideas

Flashcards about the U.S. Constitution's 6 Big Ideas.

Popular Sovereignty

The authority of the government is created and sustained by the consent of its people.

Example: Citizens vote in elections at local, state, and national levels (e.g., presidential elections, ballot initiatives).

What are the pros of 1. Popular Sovereignty?

- Empowers people to shape their government.

- Citizens have the right to replace ineffective leaders.

What are the cons of 1. Popular Sovereignty?

- Decisions made by the majority can harm minority groups.

Limited Government

The government has only the powers that the Constitution gives it.

Example: The First Amendment prohibits Congress from making laws that restrict free speech or religion.

What are the pros of 2. Limited Government?

- Prevents government abuse and tyranny.

- Encourages checks and accountability.

What are the cons of 2. Limited Government?

- May limit governments ability to act during crises.

Separation of Powers

Government power is divided among the three branches: Legislative, Executive, and Judicial.

Example: Congress passes the Affordable Care Act, the President enforces it, and the Supreme Court reviews its constitutionality.

What are the pros of 3. Separation of Powers?

- Reduces risk of dictatorship by dividing responsibilities.

What are the cons of 3. Separation of Powers?

- Can cause delays in decision-making.

Checks and Balances

Each branch of government can monitor and limit the actions of the other branches.

Example: The President can veto a bill; Congress can override the veto; the Supreme Court can declare the law unconstitutional.

What are the pros of 4. Checks and Balances?

- Prevents any one branch from abusing its power.

What are the cons of 4. Checks and Balances?

- Leads to power struggles and political conflict.

Federalism

The division of powers between national and state governments.

Example: States regulate education and marriage laws, while the federal government handles defense and currency.

What are the pros of 5. Federalism?

- States can make laws suited to their specific populations.What are the cons of 5. Federalism?

What are the cons of 5. Federalism?

- Inconsistent laws between states.

- Can confuse citizens about where to go for help or solutions.

Republicanism

A system of government in which people elect representatives to make and enforce laws.

Example: Citizens vote for members of Congress to represent their district or state.

What are the pros of 6. Republicanism?

- Makes large-scale democracy more manageable.

What are the cons of 6. Republicanism?

- Representatives may act in their own interest or for donors.