notes Flashcards
Organicism
purpose of govt is to protect society as a whole
Individualism
all persons are unique and can give a unique contribution to society. Govt purpose is creating a society where citizens can pursue things in an individual manner
4 major changes during Renaissance and Enlightenment
- ECONOMIC (increase in trade, creation of middle class) 2. INTELLECTUAL (reason, classics, modern scientific method, technology) 3. RELIGIOUS (divine theory, protestant reformation, 4. POLITICAL (classical liberalism, spiritual individualism, social contract)
MAN = State writ large
Man is a reflection of the state, and the state is a reflection of the man
Triparte Man / Triparte Society
SPIRIT, MIND, BODY – if all 3 developed, it enefits the state… purpose of govt is to allow men to develop all 3
Direct Democracy
“pure” democracy. mebers of polis were involved in all parts of govt. could only exist in smaller societies… impractical for large states
Indirect Democracy
“Republic” - a form of representative democracy… individuals are chosen to represent groups of people… functional
Values of Democracy
- Equality
- Individualism
- Consent of the governed
- Personal Liberties
Processes of Democracy
- MAJORITY RULE (we get what most people want)
2. MINORITY RIGHTS (majority can’t deny a right to a minority)
Paradox of Democracy
Conflict between majority rule/minority rights, or Freedom/order.
All rights can be bent.
No absolute rights- all rights must be limited in some form to provide freedom
Majoritarian Democracy
assumes that all individuals are fully informed. Full majority rule
Elitist Democracy
Special class to decide
Pluralist Democracy
no absolute majority or ruling class. different groups, no majority group, compromise, combine with each other to create majority.
What are some Models of Democracy?
- Majoritarian Democracy
- Elitist Democracy
- Pluralist Democracy
Natural Law
Natural World is controlled by unchangeable natural laws
