1. Concepts of a Democracy
What is a Democracy?

2. Characteristics of Democracy
Active Citizenship
Citizens are willing to participate
Inform themselves about issues
Read or watch the news!
Vote in Elections
Serve on juries
Work for candidates
Run for office
Get an education

3. What historical document is this quote from?
“We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed…with certain unalienable rights….Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Happiness…”
The Declaration of Independence, 1776

4. Political culture and attitude
Americans have a common political culture
Political culture is a long standing way of thinking about how governmental, political, and economic life should be carried out.

5. Criteria to success as a democracy
Most Americans believe that the government should….
Brainstorm a list of ideas

6. Criteria to success as a democracy
Most Americans believe that the government should….
Keep us free…..maintain individual freedoms
Keep us safe…..from ourselves & outside threat
Keep us employed……..Favorable economy
Keep us informed……..widespread education

7. Characteristics of Democracy
#1. Individual liberty
Each person’s worth and dignity must be recognized by all other individuals and by society at all times

8. Characteristics of Democracy
#2. Majority rule is valued, but respect minority rights
The majority must always recognize the rights of the minority; the majority is not always right for everyone.

9. Characteristics of Democracy
#3. Free & open elections
“One person, one vote” (secret ballot)
Candidates can express views freely.
Citizens are free to help and support candidates.
No racial, ethnic, or religious restrictions on voting is allowed

10. Characteristics of Democracy
#4. Competing political parties
“A group of individuals with broad common interest who organize and nominate candidates for office. Political parties seek to win elections, conduct government and determine public policy.”
Voters are given a choice

11. Characteristics of Democracy
Should the Washington Redskins save or scrap its Native American nickname?
Read “Insult or Honor”
What are the PROS and CONS of changing the name?
Does the Indian mascot represent American democracy or is it simply racist?