Questions and Answers
What are natural rights based on?
What is the state of nature?
An idea where no government or laws exist at all.
Consent of the governed is when people volunteer to be governed by the rules laid out by their representatives.
True
What does the social contract imply?
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What does classical republicanism promote?
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Civic virtue requires citizens and leaders to prioritize personal interests over the common good.
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What is the common good?
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Majority rule means minority rights should not be guaranteed.
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What is the rule of law?
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Study Notes
Natural Rights
- Concept rooted in John Locke's philosophy.
- Rights inherent to all individuals, encompassing life, liberty, and property.
- Seen as part of the natural laws governing human behavior.
State of Nature
- Theory presented by Thomas Hobbes and John Locke.
- Refers to a condition without government or established laws.
- Highlights the potential chaos and insecurity in the absence of authority.
Consent of the Governed
- Fundamental principle of democracy.
- Citizens must agree to be ruled by officials chosen to represent them.
- Ensures legitimacy and accountability within government structures.
Social Contract
- An agreement in which individuals collectively give up certain freedoms.
- Aimed at establishing a government that protects natural rights.
- Based on John Locke's belief that reciprocity is vital in relationships among citizens and between the government and the governed.
Classical Republicanism
- An early democratic theory prioritizing the "common good."
- Emphasizes civic virtue, moral education, and tightly-knit communities.
- Aims for a government that nurtures the welfare of the entire society, rather than individual interests.
Civic Virtue
- The expectation that both citizens and leaders prioritize the common good over personal interests.
- Promotes selflessness and a sense of responsibility towards the community.
Common Good
- Refers to benefits and interests that serve the whole community.
- Central to the functioning of a just and effective government.
Majority Rule/Minority Rights
- Governance model where the majority's preferences are reflected in decisions.
- Protects the rights of minorities to ensure equity and justice within the society.
Rule of Law
- Principle asserting that everyone, including those in power, is subject to the law.
- Ensures equality before the law, protects citizens’ rights, and maintains order in society.
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Description
Test your knowledge on key concepts of Classical Republicanism with these flashcards. Cover essential terms such as Natural Rights, State of Nature, and Consent of the Governed, which are foundational to understanding Enlightenment political thought. Perfect for students of political science or history.
