Fragility of Democracy Study Guide

STUDY GUIDE: FRAGILITY OF DEMOCRACY

1. Political Philosophies Vocabulary

Instructions: Match the term with its definition. Each correct match is worth 0.5 points, leading to a total of 9 points available. The key terms are:

  • Fascism
  • Imperialism
  • Democracy
  • Communism
Definitions
  • Fascism: A political ideology characterized by dictatorial power, forcible suppression of opposition, and strong regimentation of society and the economy.
  • Imperialism: A policy or ideology of extending a country’s power and influence through diplomacy or military force.
  • Democracy: A system of government where the citizens exercise power directly or elect representatives to form a governing body.
  • Communism: A political and economic ideology advocating for a classless system in which the means of production are owned communally, eliminating private property.

2. Roles during Injustice Vocabulary

Instructions: Match the term with its definition. Each correct match is worth 0.5 points, leading to a total of 1 point available. The key terms are:

  • Perpetrator
  • Bystander
  • Ally
  • Upstander
Definitions
  • Perpetrator: An individual who commits a harmful, illegal, or immoral act, often against others.
  • Bystander: A person who is present at an event or incident but does not take part or get involved, especially in cases of injustice or wrongdoing.
  • Ally: A person or group that supports and stands in solidarity with others, often advocating for marginalized or oppressed voices.
  • Upstander: An individual who actively stands up for others in the face of injustice, rather than remaining a passive bystander.

3. What is Scapegoating? Why is it bad/stupid?

Scapegoating is: The practice of unfairly blaming an individual or group for a problem or negative outcome, often diverting attention from the true cause.

It is bad because:

  1. It unjustly harms the innocent, leading to increased suffering and marginalization of the scapegoated group.
  2. It detracts from addressing the real issues at hand, perpetuating cycles of injustice and conflict.
  3. It promotes division and reinforces stereotypes, fostering an environment of hate rather than understanding.