7 Prin of Constitution
7 Prin of Constitution
7 Prin of Constitution
■ system that overlaps the powers of the three branches of government so that each branch can
limit (check) the powers, actions, and activities of the other two branches.
■ No one branch of government is allowed to become too powerful and dominate government.
Federalism –
Individual Rights –
■ rights of the individual person that the government cannot take away.
■ These include economic rights related to property, political rights related to freedom of speech
and press, and personal rights related to bearing arms and maintaining private residences.
Limited Government –
■ the Constitution and laws define the limits of those in power so they cannot take advantage of
their elected, appointed, or inherited positions.
■ Everyone, including all authority figures, must obey the laws (rule of law).
Popular Sovereignty –
■ a principle of American government that political power rests with the people.
■ The people are the final authority and the source of all governmental power and can create,
alter, and abolish government.
Republicanism –
■ a system of government where elected representatives are elected by and serve at the will of
the people, and government is based on the consent of the governed.
Separation of Powers –
■ a principle of American government that divides the powers of government among the
executive, legislative, and judicial branches of the government.
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