Philosophy, Principles, and Preamble Flashcards
Limited government
The government only has powers that the constitution gives it
Separation of powers
There are 3 branches of government each with its own powers
Checks and balances
Any branch of government can limit the actions of the other 2
Federalism
Division of power between the federal government and the states
Popular Sovereinty
Government gets its authority from the people
Perfect union
Better country
Establish justice
Fairness
Insure domestic tranquility
Peace at home
Provide for the common defense
Give protection
Promote the general welfare
Well being
Blessings of liberty to ourselves and posterity
Freedom to us and our future generation
Ordain and establish this constitution
Approve these laws and principles
John Locke
Contract Theory- governments can rule with consent of the governed
Jean Jacques Rousseau
Social contract- people are willing to give up some freedoms for the needs of the greater good.
Baron de Montesquieu
Limited government powers- a system of checks and balances
What is the definition of constitution
A written plan of gov’t
What are the main parts of the constitution
Articles
Preamble
Amendments
What is the purpose of the preamble
To list the goals of the constitution
What are the 3 branches of gov’t and what is the main responsibility of each branch
Legislative-Make laws
Executive-enforce laws
Judicial-interpret the laws
What part of the constitution tells why the constitution was written?
Preamble
What is the state legislative branch called?
General Assembly
Separation of powers is meant to stop
tyranny
What was the most serious criticism the anti federalist so had about the constitution?
It lacked a bill of rights
Rule of Law
No one is above the law; everyone regardless of status will be expected to follow every law.
Republicanism
the belief that government should be based on the consent of the people by electing representatives.
