American Government and Civil Engagement Lecture

These flashcards cover key concepts about government terminology, theories, civic engagement, and the functions of media in the context of American politics.

Government

An organization that makes and enforces rules for a society.

Capitalism

An economic system where business and industry are privately owned.

Socialism

An economic system where the government owns and redistributes resources.

Representative Democracy

A system where citizens elect representatives to make decisions on their behalf.

Direct Democracy

A system where people directly participate in decision-making.

Monarchy

A government led by a single ruler whose power can be absolute or limited.

Oligarchy

A government structure where a small group controls political power.

Totalitarianism

A government that prioritizes the state over individual citizens.

Elite Theory

A theory suggesting that power is held by a combination of businesses, military, and political elites.

Pluralist Theory

A political theory where power is distributed among multiple competing interest groups.

Civic Engagement

Participation in the political process by ordinary citizens.

Natural Rights

Rights that are believed to be granted by nature or God; includes life, liberty, and property.

Separation of Powers

Division of government responsibilities into distinct branches to limit any one branch's power.

Judicial Review

The power of the courts to declare laws unconstitutional.

Electoral College

A body of electors established by the United States Constitution that formally elects the President.

Impeachment

The process by which a sitting President or other officials are charged with misconduct.

Executive Privilege

The right of the President to withhold information from Congress or the courts.

Civil Liberties

Individual rights protected by law from governmental interference.

Media Functions

The roles that media play in society, including informing the public and acting as a watchdog.

Voter Turnout Factors

Elements influencing the percentage of eligible voters who participate in elections.