Competency One Flashcards
(14 cards)
Locke and the consent of the governed/social contract:
John Locke proposed that individuals enter into a social contract to form a government. The legitimacy of political authority derives from the consent of the
governed. Citizens’ active participation and agreement with the government’s actions are crucial for its legitimacy and functioning.
Checks and Balances/separation of powers/MonTesQuieu and LIMITED government:
Montesquieu advocated for the separation of powers to prevent tyranny and concentration of authority. The three branches (Legislative, Executive, and Judicial) have distinct roles and functions.
Motivations, Purpose, and Practice of Checks and Balances:
The purpose is to ensure no single branch becomes too powerful and to foster government accountability. Each branch can limit and check the powers of the other branches.
Rule of Law-essential component of democratic government:
The rule of law ensures that government actions are bound by legal principles and constraints. No one, including government officials, is above the law.
Limits on the Use of Power by Government:
The rule of law places restrictions on the exercise of government power, protecting individual rights and promoting justice and fairness.
Due Process-Fair procedures within the boundaries of the law:
Due process refers to the fair treatment of individuals in legal proceedings. It guarantees that individuals are entitled to certain legal procedures and protections.
The Justice System and How it Works
Due process is upheld through the justice system, where accused individuals have the right to a fair trial and legal representation.
Equality under the law-equal treatment and equal protection without the Guarantee of equal outcomes of the law:
Equality under the law means that all individuals are entitled to the same treatment and protection, regardless of differences.
Popular sovereignty -Government is Created by and Subject to the Will of the People
Popular sovereignty asserts that the ultimate source of authority lies with the people. Government exists to serve the people and govern based on their consent.
Natural rights and NaturaL Law
The Founders believed in natural rights that are inherent to all individuals, such as life, liberty and property.These rights are reflected in the Declaration of Independence as “unalienable rights.”
Federalism
Federalism is a system of government where power is shared between national (federal) government and state governments. Both levels of government have distinct powers and responsibilities.
