the enlightenment Flashcards
autocracy
one person has all power
what are the 2 types of autocracy?
monarchy and dictatorship
monarchy
king or queen rules country
dictatorship
one leader has absolute control over citizens
democracy
citizen holds political power
representative democracy
citizens elect leaders to represent their rights and interests in government
direct democracy
no representatives, citizens are involved day to day governing
oligarchy
small group of people have power
theocracy
government that recognizes God or some divine being as ultimate authority
anarchy
no one in control
What are some pros of government?
people participate directly in government, ensures equality
What are some cons of government?
Slower and harder, uninformed people can vote
What is the political spectrum?
System of classifying different political ideas, parties and positions
What is the general idea of American “right” on the political spectrum?
conservative, republican, socially traditional, small & efficient government, deregulated business, strong national defense in military
What is the general idea of American “left” on the political spectrum?
liberal, democratic, socially progressive, powerful government, moderation of the economy, global presences with diplomacy.
Who were the enforcers of tradition?
- emperors, kings, dictators
- privileged minorities (nobles, aristocrats)
- religious representatives (priests)
Why were the enforcers of tradition want to maintain tradition?
to maintain their power as well
What were some of the enforcers of tradition methods to protect traditional ideas and beliefs?
- dictated governments, social interactions, religious responsiblities
- punished people who spoke out against them
How were the enforcers of tradition challenged by the scientific revolution?
people started to disprove long help explanations on how the world worked
What was the general goal of the Enlightenment?
to inform (enlighten) the public
What is a philosopher?
individuals who seek knowledge and understanding through deep thought and analysis
What were the ways the enlightenment ideas spread?
Newspapers and pamphlets
What was the main focus Rousseau was studying?
Individual freedom, people are naturally good, governments are evil and corrupt people. Ideal government is direct democracy.
What was the main focus Hobbes was studying?
People are naturally evil, ideal government is a strict monarchy to protect the people from themselves.