Political Systems and the Constitution

These flashcards cover key concepts and terminologies related to political systems and the Constitution.

Democracy

A political system where individuals have control over their own decisions and possess power over the government.

Popular Sovereignty

The principle that the people are the ultimate source of political power.

Social Contract

An agreement between the government and the governed where individuals obey the government in exchange for protection.

State of Nature

A pre-governmental condition in which individuals have rights, particularly the right to life, but lack governmental protection.

Federalism

A system of government in which power is divided between a central government and state governments.

Bicameral legislature

A legislative body with two chambers or houses.

Great Compromise

An agreement to create a bicameral legislature with representation based on population in one house and equal representation in the other.

Electoral College

A body established by the Constitution for the indirect election of the president and vice president.

Impeachment

The process by which a legislative body levels charges against a government official.

Enumerated Powers

Specific powers granted to Congress by the Constitution.

Necessary and Proper Clause

A clause that allows Congress to make laws deemed necessary for carrying out its enumerated powers.

Judicial Review

The power of the courts to interpret the meaning of the Constitution and invalidate laws that violate it.

Articles of Confederation

The first governing document of the United States, which established a confederation of states with limited central authority.

Rights

Principles of entitlement that are owed to individuals, often upheld in democratic societies.

Republic

A form of government in which representatives are elected to make decisions on behalf of the citizenry.