Principles of Democracy
In political philosophy, an ideal is a standard or principle representing what a society should be, rather than what it is. An ideal theory provides a guide for societal improvements and is often an end-state goal to strive for.
What is an Ideal Principle?
The principle that all people, including the government, are accountable to the same, fair, and publicly known laws. It ensures a just and orderly society and prevents arbitrary rule.
What is Rule of Law?
An economic system where individuals can make their own economic decisions and businesses operate with limited government constraints. It is based on individual ownership, consumer sovereignty, and the pursuit of profit.
What is Free Enterprise?
A system of government where power is divided between a national government and smaller political subdivisions like states or provinces. Both levels have the power to make laws.
What is Federal System?
The freedom to think and act as one sees fit, without restraint, as long as it doesn't infringe on the rights of others. This fundamental right is protected by law in constitutional democracies.
What is Liberty?
A method for organizing government where the largest portion of the population makes decisions, such as electing representatives or passing laws. It is balanced by the protection of minority rights.
What is Majority Rule?
The most common form of modern democracy, where citizens elect representatives to make policy decisions and run the government on their behalf.
What is Representative Democracy?
A system where the ultimate governing power is concentrated in a single, central national authority. Any subdivisions, such as regions or departments, exist to carry out the central government's directives.
What is Unitary System?
The principle that all individuals, as human beings, have the same claim to natural rights and equal treatment under the law. It means no one is discriminated against based on ethnicity, religion, or gender.
What is Equality?
The rights and freedoms of individuals who are part of a minority group are protected from being removed by a majority. The government must protect these rights to ensure a functional, inclusive society.
What is Minority Rights?
A form of government where all or nearly all power is held by one person or a single ruling entity, often enforced through coercion and political repression.
What is Dictatorship?
The idea that the people should have a say in the terms by which they live. It is the core concept of a republic, where people are sovereign and responsible for their own actions.
What is Self-Government?
The process of reaching an agreement where each party gives up some of its demands. In politics, it is a crucial tool for resolving disagreements and preventing conflict.
What is Compromise?
A system where political power is concentrated in the hands of a small number of wealthy or powerful individuals or families.
What is Oligarchy?
A fundamental belief in democracy that every person has dignity and worth. While individuals can be required to serve the common good (e.g., paying taxes), their basic rights are valued and protected.
What is Worth of the Individual?
The active involvement of citizens in the decisions and actions that affect their community or society. It can range from voting and petitions to participating in local government meetings.
What is Citizen Participation?
A democratic form of government where the executive branch, led by a Prime Minister, is accountable to the legislature. The head of government is chosen from the majority party in the legislature.
What is Parliamentary System?