1. What is a constitution Flashcards
what is a constitution
a constitution is a set of rules that lays out the powers and functions of various government institutions
What is a codified constitution?
A constitution collected and written on a single document
What is meant by the term separation of powers?
Power in the US/UK is seperated horizontally into three branches; Legislature, Executive, and Judiciary (these all make up the federal government)
How can power be separated horizontally & vertically?
For example, in the US power separated vertically between federal and state governments
How and why do many constitutions create a system of checks and balances?
Checks and balance: when a branch might use its powers to prevent another branch from taking a particular action to balance out their influence and prevent any single branch from acting alone
How and why are most codified constitutions entrenched?
In the US, Constitutional laws are purposely made much harder to amend than normal laws. A 2/3 supermajority vote in congress is needed to propose an amendment, and 3/4 of all states then ratify (approve)
This is done to prevent representatives from easily amending the constitution to weaken the separation of powers and its system of checks and balances
How and why are most codified constitutions entrenched?
In the US, Constitutional laws are purposely made much harder to amend than normal laws. A 2/3 supermajority vote in congress is needed to propose an amendment, and 3/4 of all states then ratify (approve)
This is done to prevent representatives from easily amending the constitution to weaken the separation of powers and its system of checks and balances
What is the doctrine of popular sovereignty?
Popular sovereignty – the idea that sovereignty (supreme power) is vested in the people. Kings believed that their right to rule came from God – but governments are created by, and subject to, the will of the people, and must obey the constitutions limits
What is the US Bill of Rights? Why is it significant?
US Bill of Rights – the first ten amendments to the US Constitution e.g. first amendment – freedom of speech, second amendment – the right to keep and bear arms, sixth amendment right to trial by jury
Most constitutions don’t just protect the people from the government, they also include rights and liberties to protect the people from each other
Why are constitutions such an important feature of liberal democracies?
Liberal Democracy:
Constitutions (clear limits on government power) protect individual’s rights and liberties
Representatives decide issues by majority rule
