Civics Unit 5 Vocabulary Quiz

Popular Sovereignty

• Represents self-governance, where the authority of a state is created and sustained by the consent of its people.
• Contrasts with dictatorship, where power is concentrated in a single ruler or group.

Republicanism

• Based on the idea of an aristocracy where the state's power rests with elected representatives.
• Opposed to monarchism, which is characterized by governance through a single ruler, often a king or queen.

Federalism

• Involves a union of states with a central government that shares power with regional governments.
• Opposes anti-federalism, which advocates for a system where more power is given to individual states rather than a central authority.

Separation of Powers

• A doctrine emphasizing limited government by dividing responsibilities among multiple branches (executive, legislative, judicial).
• Opposes unlimited government, which lacks checks on power and can lead to tyranny.

Checks and Balances

• Ensures that political power is not concentrated in one branch of government, allowing each branch to check the powers of the others.
• In contrast to oligarchy, where a small group holds power disproportionately, bypassing broader accountability.

Limited Government

• Refers to a governing body whose powers are restricted by law, often through a constitution.
• Opposes totalitarian government, where the state recognizes no limits to its authority.

Individual Rights

• Fundamental freedoms and liberties that belong to every person, often enshrined in law.
• Opposes tyrannical government, which may infringe upon these rights through repression and control.

Amending

• Refers to the ability to change or update laws or policies to adapt to new circumstances or insights.
• Contrasts with unchangeable statutes, highlighting rigidity in governance.

Bill of Rights

• A formal declaration of the legal and civil rights of citizens, instrumental in protecting individual liberties.
• Opposed to a right-less nation, where citizens lack these essential protections and freedoms.

Civic Duty

• Encompasses responsibilities of citizens to participate in civic and community activities, promoting the common good.
• Opposes rebellious citizens, who may reject or undermine social order and governance.