Bill of Rights
First ten amendments to the Constitution, ratified in 1791, these amendments limit governmental power and protect basic rights and liberties of individuals
Civic Responsibility
Comprised of actions and attitudes associated with democratic governance and social participation; can include participation in government, church, volunteers, and memberships of voluntary associations
Civic Virtues
the willingness to do one's part in supporting the public good, the willingness to do one's part to combat corruption
common good
Benefit or interest of a politically organized society as a whole
compromise
an agreement or a settlement of a dispute that is reached by each side making concessions.
Constitution
The basic written set of principles and precedents of federal government in the US, which came into operation in 1789 and has since been modified by twenty seven amendments.
democracy
a system of government by the whole population or all the eligible members of a state, typically through elected representatives.
general welfare
Good of society as a whole; common or public good.
justice
fair distribution of benefits and burdens, fair correction of wrongs and injuries, or use of fair procedures, in gathering information and making decisions
natural rights
Belief that individuals are naturally endowed with basic human rights; those rights that are so much a part of human nature that they cannot be taken away or given up, as opposed to rights conferred by law. The Declaration of Independence states that these natural rights include the rights to "Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness.
Popular Sovereignty
a doctrine in political theory that government is created by and subject to the will of the people
principle
a rule or code of conduct
republicanism
support for a republican system of government.
Rule of Law
principle that every member of a society, including the ruler or government, must follow the law
Separation of Powers
the division of governmental power among several institutions that must cooperate in decision making