unit 1 foundations of american government: characteristics of democracy

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. Free elections/equality in voting2. Individual liberty3. Equality of all citizens4. Majority rule with minority rights5. Voluntary consent6. Competing political partiesThese traits help distinguish democracies from other forms of government.


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.


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.



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.



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.


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.


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.


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.


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).


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.


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.

unit 1 foundations of american government: characteristics of democracy

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