6 Principles of American Democracy

For test on Thursday 8/27

Limited Government

The government is not all powerful, it may only do things the people have given it the power to do. Example: Government powers are listed in the Constitution.

Checks and Balances

A system in which each branch of government is able to check (or restrain) the power of the other branches. Example: The President can veto a bill (say no). Congress can declare war.

Federalism

The type of government in which power is shared between national and the state governments. Example: The federal government prints money, and the states issue licenses.

Separation of Powers

Split of authority among the legislative, executive, and judicial branches. Example: The Legislative Branch makes the laws. The Executive Branch enforces the laws. The Judicial Branch interprets the laws.

Popular Sovereignty

The government receives its power from the people. Example: The people exercise this power through elections.

Republicanism

The form of government where power resides in the people. exercised through elected representatives. Example: We elect members of Congress at the Federal level. (Voting)