Vocabulary Chapter 1 Mrs. Lehman SBHS

Vocabulary GovernmentThe formal vehicle through which policies are made and affairs of state are conducted. MonarchyA form of government in which power is vested in hereditary kings and queens who govern in the interest of all. TotalitarianismA form of government in which power resides in a leader who rules according to self-interest and without regard for individual rights and liberties. OligarchyA form of government in which the right to participate depends on the possession of wealth, social status, military position, or achievement. DemocracyA system of government that gives power to the people, whether directly or through elected representatives. Direct DemocracyA system of government in which members of the polity meet to discuss all policy decisions and then agree to abide by majority rule.

Vocabulary Indirect DemocracyA system of government that gives citizens the opportunity to vote for representatives who work on their behalf. RepublicA government rooted in the consent of the governed; a representative or indirect democracy. Political CultureCommonly shared attitudes, beliefs, and core values about how government should operate. Personal LibertyA key characteristic of U.S. democracy, demands for freedom to engage in a variety of practices without governmental interference or discrimination. Political EqualityThe principle that all citizens are the same in the eyes of the law.

Vocabulary Popular ConsentThe principle that governments must draw their powers from the consent of the governed. Majority RuleThe central premised of direct democracy in which only policies that collectively garner the support of a majority of voters will be made into law. Popular SovereigntyThe notion that the ultimate authority in society rests with the people. Natural LawA doctrine that society should be governed by certain ethical principles that are part of nature and, as such, can be understood by reason. Political IdeologyThe coherent set of values and beliefs about the purpose and scope of government held by groups and individuals.

Vocabulary ConservativeOne who favors limited government intervention, particularly in economic affairs. Social Conservative One who believes that the government should support and further traditional moral teachings. LiberalOne who favors greater government intervention, particularly in economic affairs and in the provision of social services. ModerateA person who takes a relatively centrist or middle-of- the-road view on most political issues. Statistone who believes in extensive government control of personal and economic liberties. LibertarianOne who believes in limited government interference in personal and economic liberties.

Vocabulary PoliticsThe study of who gets what, when and how-or how policy decisions are made. American DreamAn American ideal of a happy, successful life, which often includes wealth, a house, a better life for one’s children, and, for some, the opportunity to grow up to be president.