liberal democracy
- Liberal democracy is a government system that blends democracy with individual rights and rule of law, ensuring free elections, protection of civil liberties, and checks on government power.
- “Liberal” means freedom; liberty
- “Democracy” means will of the people
Totalitarianism
- Type of authoritarianism but most extreme version
- Government has absolute power
- Example: Joseph Stalin
Authoritarianism
- Rule of law is weak
- No respect for the people and their will
- Government has the power to enforce the law
- Does not abide to freedoms of the people
- Government is very powerful
Is limited
the Declaration of Independence
The Declaration of Independence, adopted on July 4, 1776, signifies the thirteen American colonies’ choice to separate from British rule and form an independent nation. It outlines philosophical principles such as natural rights, lists grievances against King George III, justifies the separation, and formally declares independence. The document symbolizes American ideals of liberty, equality, and self-governance, serving as inspiration for global freedom movements.
separation of powers (federal and state; legislative, executive, and judicial)
- Can be used to control an out of control majority faction (factional diversity)
- Legislative Branch: This branch is responsible for making laws. In the United States, this is embodied by Congress at the federal level and by state legislatures at the state level. Congress consists of the Senate and the House of Representatives, which are responsible for drafting, debating, and passing laws.
- Executive Branch: This branch is responsible for enforcing and administering the laws. At the federal level, it is led by the President, who is the head of state and government. The executive branch also includes various departments and agencies tasked with implementing and enforcing laws.
- Judicial Branch: This branch is responsible for interpreting laws and ensuring their constitutionality. In the United States, the judicial branch is headed by the Supreme Court, which has the authority to review laws and governmental actions to ensure they comply with the Constitution. Lower federal courts and state courts also play roles in interpreting and applying laws.
Articles I, II, III are part of the separation of powers
The Federalist Papers
- The Federalist Papers: A series of 85 essays written by Hamilton, Madison, and Jay advocating for the ratification of the U.S. Constitution, explaining its principles, and emphasizing the need for a strong federal government.
- 1787 Philadelphia Convention: A gathering of delegates from most states to address the weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation. It resulted in the drafting of the U.S. Constitution, establishing the structure and powers of the federal government.
- 1789 Ratification of the Constitution: The process by which the states approved the U.S. Constitution, marking the transition to a unified federal government.
Madison’s concept of human nature
He thought that man was capable of reason and fairness, though also susceptible to illogical conclusions, selfishness, and greed. In other words, humans could be good, but outside forces caused them to be bad.
Madison’s concept of faction
faction = special interest group
- Number of citizens, whether amounting to a majority or a minority of the while, who are united and actuated by some common impulse of passion, or of interest, adverse to the rights of other citizens, or to the permanent and aggregate interests of the community
- Minority faction: Not the majority of people
- Majority rule counter balances minority factions
- Majority faction:
Madison’s concept of separation of powers
Madison’s solution to the problem of faction
- Can be used to control an out of control majority faction (factional diversity)
Classical liberalism (classical political liberalism)
Sets the purpose of government as the protection and provision of the rights of individuals
Classical economic liberalism (free market economy)
monopolistic behavior; results of a free market are evident in the US aka prices going up and down; businesses becoming large or going under
Civil rights
Civil rights refer to the rights that every individual is entitled to by virtue of their humanity, regardless of factors such as race, ethnicity, religion, gender, sexual orientation, or disability. These rights are typically protected by law and encompass various aspects of human life, including political, social, and economic rights.
Civil liberties
Example: Free speech within the laws
Rule of law
we have a rule of law government; the constitution is the supreme law; “No one is above the law”
Secularism
religiously neutral
Representation
Representation and direct democracy
Democracy
- Democracy encompasses various forms, including direct democracy, where citizens directly participate in decision-making.
- One method is through initiatives, where citizens propose laws or amendments directly, bypassing the legislature.
- Referendums allow citizens to vote directly on specific laws or issues. These mechanisms empower citizens to shape policy and legislation directly, enhancing democratic participation and accountability.
Powers of congress (Article I, section 8)
–commerce
–federal budget (taxation, other revenue and spending)
–military powers
The executive
Article 2 is Executive (President)
The federal judiciary: political power of the Supreme Court
Article 3 is Judicial (Supreme Court)
Populism
A political ideology emphasizing the interests of ordinary people over elites, often characterized by anti-establishment rhetoric and appeals to nationalism or anti-globalization sentiment.
Shays’ rebellion – 1786-1787
An armed uprising in Massachusetts led by Daniel Shays, protesting economic injustices and foreclosures faced by farmers after the American Revolutionary War. It highlighted the weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation and contributed to calls for a stronger central government.
Federalists
Supporters of the U.S. Constitution during the ratification process who advocated for a strong central government and the need for a new framework to replace the Articles of Confederation.
