Inquizitive for Chapter 2-Gov Questions and Answers Rated A+

Inquizitive for Chapter 2-Gov Questions and Answers Rated A+ What does the term "sovereignty" refer to in political science? The supreme authority of a state to govern itself without external interference What is the difference between a democracy and a dictatorship? In a democracy, power is vested in the people who elect representatives, while in a dictatorship, power is concentrated in the hands of one person or a small group What is the concept of "separation of powers"? The division of government responsibilities into distinct branches to prevent any one branch from becoming too powerful What is federalism? A system of government in which power is divided between a central authority and smaller political units like states or provinces What is the social contract theory? 2 The idea that government is formed through the consent of the governed to protect natural rights What does the phrase "checks and balances" mean in government? A system in which each branch of government has some measure of influence over the other branches to ensure that no single branch becomes too powerful What is the Bill of Rights? The first ten amendments to the U.S. Constitution, guaranteeing essential civil liberties and protections for individuals What is the concept of "popular sovereignty"? The principle that the authority of government is created and sustained by the consent of the people What is the role of political parties in a democracy? Political parties organize elections, represent different viewpoints, and help shape public policy 3 What is the function of interest groups in a democratic system? Interest groups influence public policy and legislation by representing specific causes or industries What is the meaning of "rule of law"? The principle that all individuals, including government officials, are subject to and accountable under the law What is the significance of judicial review? Judicial review allows courts to determine whether laws and government actions are constitutional What is a constitution? A document or set of principles that outlines the structure, powers, and limitations of a government What does "due process" refer to in the U.S. legal system? The legal requirement that the government must respect all legal rights owed to a person according to the law 4 What is the purpose of the Electoral College in the United States? The Electoral College is used to formally elect the President and Vice President of the United States What is the significance of the 14th Amendment? The 14th Amendment guarantees equal protection under the law and ensures that no state can deny a person life, liberty, or property without due process