Hulett Copy of 7 Principles of Government

7 Principles of Government

  • The foundational principles expressing how the U.S. government operates:

    • Popular Sovereignty

    • Republicanism

    • Federalism

    • Separation of Powers

    • Checks and Balances

    • Limited Government

    • Individual Rights

Popular Sovereignty

  • Definition: The power of government is derived from the consent of the governed.

  • Key Phrase: "We the People... establish this Constitution for the United States of America."

  • Significance: Establishes democracy and the notion that authority rests with the people.

Republicanism

  • Definition: A government where representatives are elected by the people to exercise their power.

  • Constitutional Basis: Article 4, Section 4 calls for a republican form of government in all states.

  • Characteristics: Citizens hold supreme power through voting for their representatives.

Federalism

  • Definition: A system of government where power is divided between national and state governments.

  • Types of Powers:

    • Delegated Powers: Powers assigned to the national government.

    • Reserved Powers: Powers retained by the states.

    • Concurrent Powers: Powers shared by both national and state governments.

  • Importance: Creates a balance of power to bind the American people together.

Separation of Powers

  • Definition: Divides government roles into three branches to prevent excessive power concentration.

  • Branches:

    • Legislative: Makes laws.

    • Executive: Enforces laws.

    • Judicial: Interprets laws.

  • Constitutional Articles: Articles 1, 2, and 3 outline the powers of each branch.

Checks and Balances

  • Philosophy: Inspired by Montesquieu's idea that "Power should be a check to power."

  • Function: Each government branch can limit the powers of the others, maintaining balance.

  • Examples of Checks:

    • Executive Branch: Can grant pardons and appoint judges.

    • Judicial Branch: Interprets laws and can declare actions unconstitutional.

    • Legislative Branch: Can override presidential vetoes and impeach officials.

Limited Government

  • Philosophy: Government should govern least, ensuring it does not overreach.

  • Rule of Law: All individuals, including leaders, must obey the law.

  • Constitutional Provisions: Articles within the Constitution specify powers denied to Congress and states (Article 1, Sections 9 & 10).

  • 10th Amendment: Reserves undelegated powers to states and people.

Individual Rights

  • Definition: Rights protected against government infringement.

  • Bill of Rights: The first ten amendments to the Constitution that ensure personal liberties.

  • Key Amendments Overview:

    • 1st Amendment: Freedom of speech, religion, press, assembly, and petition.

    • 2nd Amendment: Right to bear arms.

    • 3rd Amendment: Protection from quartering of soldiers.

    • 4th Amendment: Protection against unreasonable searches and seizures.

    • 5th Amendment: Rights related to legal proceedings.

    • 6th Amendment: Rights to a speedy trial and fair representation.

    • 7th Amendment: Right to a jury trial in civil cases.

    • 8th Amendment: Prohibition on excessive bail and cruel punishment.