All flashcards
Flashcard 1: What is a constitutional democracy?
Answer: Government powers are limited by a constitution and elected representatives. Combines democratic participation with constitutional protections and limits.
Flashcard 2: Define 'participatory democracy'.
Answer: Citizens have the power to decide directly on policy and politicians. Maximizes citizen involvement in democratic decision-making processes.
Flashcard 3: What is direct democracy?
Answer: Citizens directly participate in decision-making processes. Allows all citizens to have immediate input on government decisions.
Flashcard 4: Define 'minority rights' in a democratic system.
Answer: Protects the rights of minority groups against majority oppression. Essential safeguard preventing majority from silencing dissenting voices.
Flashcard 5: What is the significance of tolerance in democratic societies?
Answer: Promotes coexistence and acceptance of diverse viewpoints. Prevents conflict by allowing different groups to coexist peacefully.
Flashcard 6: What is 'political efficacy'?
Answer: The belief that one's political participation makes a difference. Citizens' confidence that their actions can influence government decisions.
Flashcard 7: Define 'majoritarianism'.
Answer: Political system in which the majority's decisions hold the most power. System where numerical majority determines political outcomes.
Flashcard 8: What is the role of the judiciary in a democracy?
Answer: Interprets laws and ensures they align with the constitution. Provides independent check on legislative and executive power.
Flashcard 9: What is the purpose of a bill of rights?
Answer: Protects individual liberties against government infringement. Guarantees specific freedoms that government cannot violate.
Flashcard 10: Explain the concept of 'government transparency'.
Answer: Openness in government operations to foster accountability and trust. Allows citizens to monitor and evaluate government performance.
Flashcard 11: Identify an example of a civil liberty.
Answer: Freedom of speech. Fundamental right allowing citizens to express opinions without fear.
Flashcard 12: What is the significance of property rights in democracy?
Answer: Ensures individuals can own and control possessions without undue interference. Provides economic security and incentives for productive participation.
Flashcard 13: What does 'government accountability' mean?
Answer: Government officials are responsible to the public and must justify actions. Prevents corruption by requiring officials to explain their decisions.
Flashcard 14: Describe the concept of 'democratic legitimacy'.
Answer: A government's rightful authority is derived from the will of the people. Government authority is accepted because it reflects popular will.
Flashcard 15: Define 'liberty' in the context of democratic ideals.
Answer: Freedom from oppressive restrictions imposed by authority. Essential freedom that allows individuals to pursue their goals.
Flashcard 16: What is the function of a constitution in a democracy?
Answer: Outlines the structure, powers, and limits of government. Provides framework for democratic governance and protects citizen rights.
Flashcard 17: Explain the concept of 'political pluralism'.
Answer: Diverse and competing groups influence political decision-making. Prevents single-group dominance by encouraging multiple competing interests.
Flashcard 18: What is the significance of minority rights in a democracy?
Answer: Protects against tyranny of the majority and ensures diverse representation. Prevents majority from silencing smaller groups and ensures inclusion.
Flashcard 19: What is the principle of 'equal protection under the law'?
Answer: All individuals are treated equally by the law without discrimination. Fundamental principle ensuring justice regardless of personal characteristics.
Flashcard 20: Define 'constitutionalism'.
Answer: Adherence to a system of constitutional government. Ensures government operates within established legal framework and limits.
Flashcard 21: What is the role of civic engagement in democracy?
Answer: Participation of citizens in the political process and civic affairs. Essential for democracy to function through active citizen involvement.
Flashcard 22: Identify the principle of federalism.
Answer: Division of power between national and state governments. Balances national unity with local autonomy and diverse state needs.
Flashcard 23: Explain the importance of free and fair elections.
Answer: Ensures government accountability and reflects the will of the people. Provides peaceful means for citizens to choose their representatives.
Flashcard 24: What is the significance of a free press in democracy?
Answer: Ensures transparency and accountability by informing the public. Prevents government corruption and enables informed citizen participation.
Flashcard 25: Describe the concept of 'political equality'.
Answer: All citizens have equal rights and opportunities in the political process. Ensures fair representation and prevents privileged class dominance.
Flashcard 26: What is civil society?
Answer: Organizations and institutions that function independently of the government. Provides check on government power through independent citizen groups.
Flashcard 27: Define 'democratic ideals'.
Answer: Fundamental beliefs and constitutional principles of democracy. Core values that guide democratic societies and institutions.
Flashcard 28: What does 'consent of the governed' mean?
Answer: Government's legitimacy comes from the consent of its people. Essential democratic principle that authority requires public approval.
Flashcard 29: Identify the principle of judicial review.
Answer: Courts can declare laws or actions of government unconstitutional. Protects constitution by allowing courts to overturn unconstitutional acts.
Flashcard 30: What is the meaning of 'majority rule'?
Answer: Decisions are made by a vote where the majority's preference is followed. Core democratic principle where the larger group's choice prevails.