Unit 1 Foundations of American Government Characteristics of

Unit 1 Foundations of American Government: Characteristics of Democracy

Characteristics of Democracy: Main Ideas: Introduction Notes: • Although many countries may claim to be democratic, this may not always be the case. There are certain characteristics/traits that true democracies display—among them are: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. Free elections/equality in voting Individual liberty Equality of all citizens Majority rule with minority rights Voluntary consent Competing political parties These traits help distinguish democracies from other forms of government.

Characteristics of Democracy: Main Ideas: Free Elections & Equality in Voting Notes: • As previously stated, democratic forms of government get their power from the citizens. Therefore, it is crucial that citizens have free & fair elections in order for their voices to be heard and their opinions to count.

Characteristics of Democracy: Main Ideas: Free Elections & Equality in Voting (cont’d. ) Notes: • Because political leaders get their positions by the votes of the people, they will be more inclined to listen and carry out the will of the voters.

Characteristics of Democracy: Main Ideas: Free Elections & Equality in Voting (cont’d. ) Notes: • A clear sign that a nation claiming to be a democracy, does indeed have free elections with equality among voters is (1. ) if all voters are weighted the same— “one person, one vote”. (2. )Freedom of candidates to express differing views in an open forum with no government interference.

Characteristics of Democracy: Main Ideas: Free Elections & Equality in Voting (cont’d. ) Notes: • (3. ) Voters/citizens are free to aide candidates and support them. (4. ) Limitations on voter qualifications as not to discriminate (race, gender, religion, etc. ). (5. ) Voters may vote via secret ballot.

Characteristics of Democracy: Main Ideas: Individual Liberty Notes: • While no society can operate on the basis that people can do whatever they want with no consequences, democracies strive to allow maximum freedom & minimal restrictions within reason. In a democracy, the government serves to encourage the individual to develop their skills & pursue their passions —as long as they don’t infringe on the rights and freedoms of others.

Characteristics of Democracy: Main Ideas: Equality of All Citizens Notes: • Freedom & liberty is a protection that should apply to all citizens of a democratic nation— regardless of race, age, sex, religious affiliation, etc. To violate one’s person liberties based on one of these things, is not democratic.

Characteristics of Democracy: Main Ideas: Majority Rule with Minority Rights Notes: • In a democracy, decisions are made and people are elected based on a majority of votes (“majority rule”). But there is a fear that the majority could trample the rights of the minority voters—which could then lead to tyranny. The Constitution includes assurances that promote respect for the rights of individuals in the minority.

Characteristics of Democracy: Main Ideas: Voluntary Consent Notes: • In representative democracies (like the U. S. ), once voters elect political leaders, they are giving consent for those leaders to carry out the functions of government on behalf of the governed (all citizens).

Characteristics of Democracy: Main Ideas: Competing Parties Notes: • An important aspect of a democratic government is allowing for competing opinions & views/ Because of this, the role of political parties is very important. • A political party is a group of individuals with broad common interests who organize to nominate candidates for office, win elections, conduct government, & determine public policy.

Characteristics of Democracy: Main Ideas: Competing Parties (cont’d. ) Notes: • The U. S. has been dominated by two major political parties: the Democrat Party and the Republican Party. Because of the differences in competing parties, voters may benefit from meaningful discussion and debate between party members as elections are held and decisions are made.