Ideals of Democracy - AP Government and Politics

Citizens have the power to decide directly on policy and politicians. Maximizes citizen involvement in democratic decision-making processes.

Citizens directly participate in decision-making processes. Allows all citizens to have immediate input on government decisions.

Protects the rights of minority groups against majority oppression. Essential safeguard preventing majority from silencing dissenting voices.

Promotes coexistence and acceptance of diverse viewpoints. Prevents conflict by allowing different groups to coexist peacefully.

The belief that one's political participation makes a difference. Citizens' confidence that their actions can influence government decisions.

Political system in which the majority's decisions hold the most power. System where numerical majority determines political outcomes.

Interprets laws and ensures they align with the constitution. Provides independent check on legislative and executive power.

Protects individual liberties against government infringement. Guarantees specific freedoms that government cannot violate.

Openness in government operations to foster accountability and trust. Allows citizens to monitor and evaluate government performance.

Freedom of speech. Fundamental right allowing citizens to express opinions without fear.

Ensures individuals can own and control possessions without undue interference. Provides economic security and incentives for productive participation.

Government officials are responsible to the public and must justify actions. Prevents corruption by requiring officials to explain their decisions.

A government's rightful authority is derived from the will of the people. Government authority is accepted because it reflects popular will.

Freedom from oppressive restrictions imposed by authority. Essential freedom that allows individuals to pursue their goals.

Outlines the structure, powers, and limits of government. Provides framework for democratic governance and protects citizen rights.

Diverse and competing groups influence political decision-making. Prevents single-group dominance by encouraging multiple competing interests.

Protects against tyranny of the majority and ensures diverse representation. Prevents majority from silencing smaller groups and ensures inclusion.

All individuals are treated equally by the law without discrimination. Fundamental principle ensuring justice regardless of personal characteristics.

Adherence to a system of constitutional government. Ensures government operates within established legal framework and limits.

Participation of citizens in the political process and civic affairs. Essential for democracy to function through active citizen involvement.

Division of power between national and state governments. Balances national unity with local autonomy and diverse state needs.

Ensures government accountability and reflects the will of the people. Provides peaceful means for citizens to choose their representatives.

Ensures transparency and accountability by informing the public. Prevents government corruption and enables informed citizen participation.

All citizens have equal rights and opportunities in the political process. Ensures fair representation and prevents privileged class dominance.

Organizations and institutions that function independently of the government. Provides check on government power through independent citizen groups.

Fundamental beliefs and constitutional principles of democracy. Core values that guide democratic societies and institutions.

Government's legitimacy comes from the consent of its people. Essential democratic principle that authority requires public approval.

Courts can declare laws or actions of government unconstitutional. Protects constitution by allowing courts to overturn unconstitutional acts.

Decisions are made by a vote where the majority's preference is followed. Core democratic principle where the larger group's choice prevails.