Questions and Answers
What is the principle that asserts the people should be the ultimate source of power in government?
Which principle ensures that no one person or group can dominate the government?
Why was civic participation emphasized by the Greeks?
In the context of Athenian democracy, what was the main feature of their governmental structure?
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Which of the following statements best describes the Greek view on majority rule?
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Which philosopher is regarded as one of the founders of political science for his insights into government and democracy?
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What is the Greek belief about the rule of law?
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What type of government does the Athenian democracy exemplify?
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What was one of the Greeks' contributions to democratic government?
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Which principle, established by the Romans, embodies the idea that the people are the source of all political power?
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Which feature of the Roman Republic helped prevent concentration of power?
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What was one major characteristic of the Greek jury system?
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Which of the following concepts was NOT a contribution of the Romans to democratic thought?
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What role did education play in Greek democratic contributions?
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Which idea signifies the Romans' effort to ensure laws applied equally to all citizens?
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What did the idea of a citizen army promote in Roman society?
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Study Notes
Greek Contributions to Democracy
- Popular sovereignty: The belief that the ultimate source of governmental power should be the people, foundational to modern democracies.
- Majority rule: The principle that the majority's decisions hold authority, crucial for democratic governance.
- Checks and balances: Systems devised to prevent excessive power concentration in any single branch of government.
- Civic participation: Importance of citizen involvement in political processes, encouraging voting, office-holding, and public debate.
- Rule of law: The belief that laws should reign supreme, even against majority wishes, central to democratic frameworks.
Specific Examples from Greek Democracy
- Athenian democracy: A direct democracy where all citizens could participate in the legislative process through the Assembly.
- Aristotle: A pivotal figure in political philosophy, his writings deeply influenced democratic ideologies.
- Cicero: Roman lawyer promoting the rule of law as a cornerstone of a just society.
Additional Greek Innovations in Governance
- Written constitution: The first creation of a formal document delineating government principles and citizens' rights.
- Jury system: Introduced to ensure equality under the law, providing a fair trial mechanism.
- Public education: Established as essential for empowering citizens to engage in governance.
- Freedom of speech: Advocated for citizens' right to express opinions, including dissent against the government.
Roman Influences on Democratic Development
- Popular sovereignty: Romans emphasized that political power originated from the populace, summarized by "vox populi, vox dei."
- Rule of law: Established a legal framework applicable to all citizens, improving equality in governance.
- Separation of powers: Division of government into legislative, executive, and judicial branches to maintain balance and prevent abuse of power.
- Representation: Elected representatives empowered citizens to govern indirectly, enhancing participation even without physical assembly attendance.
- Citizen army: Fostering a sense of civic duty, the belief that all citizens should serve in the military promoted patriotism and responsibility.
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Description
Explore the foundational contributions of the Greeks and Romans to the development of democratic government. This study guide covers key principles such as popular sovereignty and majority rule, which form the basis for modern democracies. Prepare for your test with insights into ancient democratic ideals.
