Chapter 1 Foundations of Government Section 3 Democracy

Ideals of American Democracy • An ideal is a conception of something in its

The Ideal of Equality • Equality—the principle that all people possess a fundamental, moral

The Ideal of Self-Government • This is the belief that ordinary people could aspire

Principles of American Democracy • Worth of the Individualwe place high value on individual

The Principle of Rule of Law • The United States is a nation of

The Principle of Majority Rule, Minority Rights • Majority—or over 50% • Plurality—or just

The Principles of Compromise & Citizen Participation • Compromise is when opposing groups give

Free Enterprise • Economic freedom is just as import to Americans as speech, press,

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Chapter 1: Foundations of Government Section 3: Democracy in the United States (pg. 20 -25)

Ideals of American Democracy • An ideal is a conception of something in its most perfect form • Liberty—or the ability of a people to act and think as they choose, as long as their choices do not harm the liberty or well-being of others. • What are some freedoms that we have as Americans? (pg. 21)

The Ideal of Equality • Equality—the principle that all people possess a fundamental, moral worth that entitles them to fair treatment under the law and equal opportunity in all aspects of life— political, social, and economic. • How did the U. S. improve equality in 1868, 1920, 1924, & 1971?

The Ideal of Self-Government • This is the belief that ordinary people could aspire to rule themselves and do so as equals. • People are the ultimate source of the government’s authority. • The people have the right to revolution

Principles of American Democracy • Worth of the Individualwe place high value on individual freedom personal responsibility, self reliance, and individual achievement. • The founders put it this way, that citizens are born with the rights of “Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness. ”

The Principle of Rule of Law • The United States is a nation of laws. • Not only do the people have to obey the laws, the government has to as well. • The rule of law forces leaders to act according to the law and holds them accountable when they do not. • Can you think of a time that our leaders have been held accountable?

The Principle of Majority Rule, Minority Rights • Majority—or over 50% • Plurality—or just getting more votes than the other candidates. • The founders didn’t want any group to get to much power, this is why we have strong individual rights. • Therefore, in a liberal democracy (like the US) liberties of all people including minority groups are protected.

The Principles of Compromise & Citizen Participation • Compromise is when opposing groups give up some of their demands and come up with an agreement. • To have a successful government citizens must get involved. • Can you name some ways you can participate? (pg. 23)

Free Enterprise • Economic freedom is just as import to Americans as speech, press, and religion. • Free enterprise allows for people and businesses to make their own economic choices about how to produce, distribute and exchange goods and services with limited interference from the government. • It also protects your property.