Ch 1 Democratic Theory Flashcards
Power
def? ex?
The ability to make others do what you want them to do (to coerce, coercion)
ex: getting sister to let you borrow sweater
Authority
the legitimate exercise of power
What constitutes legitimacy?
ex of legitimate and illegitimate?
group in democratic system that have legitimate power
ex legitimate: police, president
ex illegitimate: robber
Do you need legitimacy to exercise power?
Do you need legitimacy to exercise authority?
No, robber has power and authority but illegitimate
Legitimate power aka
sovereignty (given to us in democracy)
Plato
governed by what 2 forces? what else played a role?
governed by 2 forces: Desire (basics, animalistic) & Reason (way to delay impulses)
Spiritedness (ego)
(once enlightened, obligated to go back in cave to enlighten those in darkness, like repub. form of gov.)
Aristotle
student of Plato
society should be governed by reason
(ppl w/ reason should be leaders, not just blood born)
reformation, protestantism, enlightenment (realized just personal relationship w/ God)
Reformation
printing press
bible, realized structure wasn’t in bible
Protestantism
(protesting)
against catholic structure
Enlightenment
began seeking freedom
can govern ourselves
Thomas Hobbes
believed? what protects us from it? States role?
(all evil, we are animals treated poorly) (wanted more gov)
“Enlightened self-interest” protects us from our worse nature
(early contract theory btwn governed and governor, give loyalty and labor, receive safety) (living outside city=less gov but more freedom)
State’s role is to keep ppl from doing what comes “naturally” which is killing each other
John Locke
believed? States obligations? “State” formed and guided by what?
(argued against Hobbes, not going to kill each other)
Human beings are born equal, endowed by their maker w/ abilities & talents & are generally good
State’s obligation=ensure everyone’s right to pursue & enjoy happiness & security
“State” is formed by social contract and guided ultimate equalizer: “LAW” (like playground, step in when needed)
America Adopts what model?
what did that look like?
Lockean Model (3 principles of human nature)
- Law makers, enforcers, interpreters (laws consistent w/ values)
- Legislative, Executive, Judicial branch
Goldie Locks and the 3 Bears
who was papa? mama? baby bear?
papa bear= Alexander Hamilton
mama bear= Thomas Jefferson (opposed each other)
baby bear= James Madison (settled arguments)
Hamiltonian
what was his rule?
(superiority by success story)
Elite rule: Elites are most qualified to lead bc they have the most to lose. Thus: INDIRECT democratic rule by elites, elected elites (limited franchise (vote))
