US Government & Civic Engagement Flashcards
(55 cards)
What is a Representative Democracy?
A country where people elect representatives to make political decisions for them depends on the ability and willingness of ordinary people to make their voices known, unlike an oligarchy dominated by only a small group of people.
(Government) Elitism
Those who support the elite theory of government argue that a small, wealthy, powerful elite controls government and makes policy to benefit its members and perpetuate their power.
(Government) Pluralism
This theory maintains that groups representing the people’s interests do attract the attention of politicians and can influence government policy.
(Government) Tradeoffs
Government policy usually is the result of a series of tradeoffs as groups and elites fight with one another for influence and politicians attempt to balance the demands of competing interests, including the interests of the constituents who elected them to office.
What is the importance of engagement in democracy?
Civic and political engagement allows politicians to know how the people feel. It also improves people’s lives and helps them to build connections with others.
Why is civic and political engagement important in a democracy?
It informs politicians of public opinion and helps people improve their lives and communities.
What are some ways individuals can engage in politics?
Voting, attending rallies, writing to representatives, filing complaints, volunteering, protesting, or campaigning.
Who is most likely to engage with the government?
Older, wealthier, and more educated citizens with strong opinions on issues.
Can younger or less wealthy people impact their communities through engagement?
Yes, they can contribute meaningfully and bring about change through various forms of civic action.
What are some services that government provides to maintain stability in society?
Free public education, police and fire services, mail delivery, and regulation of access to common goods like public land.
What events led colonists to believe the British government had broken the social contract?
The Proclamation of 1763, trials without juries, taxation without consent, and interference with colonial self-government.
What was the significance of the Declaration of Independence in 1776?
It marked the colonies’ official break from Great Britain and declared their independence.
Why were the Articles of Confederation designed to limit the power of the national government?
Because the founders feared a strong central government that could abuse its citizens.
What powers did the national government have under the Articles of Confederation?
It could declare war, coin money, and conduct foreign affairs, but could not tax, regulate commerce, or raise an army.
Why was a new Constitution drafted in 1787?
Because the Articles of Confederation were too weak to govern the country effectively and couldn’t be easily revised.
What kind of government did the Constitution create?
A strengthened federal republic with a bicameral legislature, a national judiciary, and shared powers between state and national governments.
What was the purpose of separation of powers and checks and balances in the Constitution?
To prevent any one branch of government from becoming too powerful.
What concerns did Anti-Federalists have about the Constitution?
They feared it gave too much power to the federal government and lacked a bill of rights.
How did Federalists respond to Anti-Federalist concerns?
They argued that a strong central government was necessary and promised to add a Bill of Rights.
What were the Federalist Papers?
A series of essays arguing in favor of ratifying the Constitution and assuring people the new government wouldn’t be tyrannical.
What made the Constitution the law of the land in 1788?
Ratification by nine states, starting with New Hampshire, Virginia, and NY
How did the Constitution address the challenge of making amendments?
By allowing amendments with approval from two-thirds of Congress and three-quarters of the state legislatures.
What helped convince people to ratify the Constitution despite fears of a strong federal government?
The promise to add a Bill of Rights to protect individual liberties.
What are some key rights and changes guaranteed by constitutional amendments?
The Bill of Rights, the end of slavery, citizenship for African Americans, and voting rights regardless of race or sex.
