Lesson 1 Practice Questions/Flashcards

What is the primary purpose of government according to conservatism?

To eliminate social inequalities caused by free society

To protect traditional natural rights of individuals (correct)

To ensure all citizens have equal opportunities in education

To promote economic equality among citizens

Which statement best describes liberalism's view of individuals in society?

Individuals should not rely on government for achieving equality.

Individuals are members of groups that can face inequities. (correct)

Individuals are only responsible for their own success or failure.

Individuals should be free from any government intervention.

What obstacles does liberalism seek to remove for individuals?

Inequalities resulting from individual decisions

Mental health issues affecting social interactions

Cultural traditions that restrict personal freedoms

Poverty, discrimination, disease, and lack of education (correct)

What common ground do both social conservatives and social liberals share regarding the government?

Both utilize government to reflect their respective values and norms. Signup and view all the answers

What is the fundamental belief about government according to the concept of limited government?

It is a necessary evil that should not interfere too much in lives. Signup and view all the answers

In the context of limited government, what does individualism emphasize?

Prioritizing individual rights over collective needs Signup and view all the answers

What does equality refer to in the framework of limited government?

Political fairness and equality before the law Signup and view all the answers

Which aspect of freedom is most aligned with the principles of limited government?

Freedom from governmental constraints Signup and view all the answers

Which description best fits regulated capitalism?

The government regulates the market to ensure economic stability. Signup and view all the answers

What does laissez-faire capitalism advocate for?

Complete separation of government and economic activities. Signup and view all the answers

How does regulated capitalism primarily function?

It allows the market to fluctuate with limited interventions from the government. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary goal of socialism?

To create an equitable distribution of resources. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes capitalism?

Individual initiative is prioritized over government control. Signup and view all the answers

What is a significant drawback of capitalism as noted in the content?

It can result in unequal distribution of resources. Signup and view all the answers

What term is often used interchangeably with a republic when discussing the American system of government today?

Representative democracy Signup and view all the answers

How did the Founding Fathers perceive the concept of a democracy?

As a rule by the majority without limits Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the major functions of a republic as established by the Founding Fathers?

Filter public opinion through representatives Signup and view all the answers

Why is the term 'democracy' misleading when describing the American government?

It emphasizes majority rule without limitations Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements about American democracy is incorrect?

It primarily supports majority rule. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements is true about non-authoritarian systems?

They allow individuals to make government decisions. Signup and view all the answers

What do individuals in anarchic systems experience in terms of freedom?

Theoretical highest freedom with no security Signup and view all the answers

What does the concept of authority imply in the context of government?

Power that is accepted by the people as legitimate Signup and view all the answers

What might happen if people lose faith in their government?

They could enter a state of rebellion Signup and view all the answers

What was a significant factor that led the American Colonists to question the king's authority?

Belief in authority deriving from the people Signup and view all the answers

What event in 2020 illustrated a loss of faith in the integrity of elections?

Protests over election results Signup and view all the answers

What is indicated by a loss of faith in a political system?

Potential challenges to governmental authority Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of government in a society?

To allocate authority and accomplish collective goals Signup and view all the answers

According to John Locke, what rights do all people possess?

Rights to life, liberty, and property Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following has often been confused with governmental systems?

Economic systems Signup and view all the answers

What key concept gained importance alongside ideas of self-government during the emergence of democratic republics?

Liberty Signup and view all the answers

What benefit do governments typically provide to their citizens?

Infrastructure for transportation Signup and view all the answers

How did the philosophical views of governance evolve in the eighteenth century?

The idea of people governing themselves through representatives developed Signup and view all the answers

What aspect of political control does politics refer to?

Gaining and exercising control within government Signup and view all the answers

What was the primary belief of Adam Smith regarding economic freedom?

People should be free to acquire property as they wish. Signup and view all the answers

How did Adam Smith believe competition would impact the market?

It would eliminate fraud and faulty products. Signup and view all the answers

In socialist economies, who primarily owns the means of wealth generation?

The government. Signup and view all the answers

What role does individualism play in capitalism according to the content?

It is essential for the functioning of the economy. Signup and view all the answers

In a direct democracy, what role do citizens play in government decisions?

They directly vote on laws and policies. Signup and view all the answers

Which scenario illustrates the principle of majority rule in a representative government?

A proposed law enacted when more representatives support it than oppose it. Signup and view all the answers

What is one way that elements of direct democracy are present in the United States?

Referendums allow citizens to directly vote on specific issues. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the role of minority rights in the United States?

They are protected regardless of majority opinion. Signup and view all the answers

What significant feature characterizes the government of ancient Athens?

Male citizens could directly participate in decision-making. Signup and view all the answers

If a government prioritizes egalitarianism, what is likely to happen?

Increased funding for public services such as education and healthcare Signup and view all the answers

A government that places a higher priority on national security than individual liberty would most likely take which action?

Approve surveillance measures such as phone tapping Signup and view all the answers

Which statement accurately characterizes the process of governance in a republic?

Elected representatives are accountable to the electorate Signup and view all the answers

Why might a government choose to loosen regulations on businesses?

To support individualism and economic growth Signup and view all the answers

Which term best describes the structure of the U.S. government as preferred by the Founding Fathers?

Republic Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of the Electoral College in the U.S. government?

To encourage candidates to engage with diverse populations Signup and view all the answers

How does the bicameral nature of Congress specifically address representation issues?

By providing equal representation for states in the Senate Signup and view all the answers

Which principle is a key feature of a republic to protect against majority tyranny?

A system of checks and balances Signup and view all the answers

What problem associated with pure democracy did the Founding Fathers seek to avoid?

Mob rule Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best explains why a representative government is favored over direct democracy?

It enables wiser decision-making through chosen representatives Signup and view all the answers

Which statement accurately reflects the Republicans' approach to power distribution in governance?

Power should be diffused to prevent dominance by populous states. Signup and view all the answers

What is a characteristic feature of the House of Representatives within the U.S. Congress?

It is highly democratic and reflects population disparities. Signup and view all the answers