Chapter 1 Key Terms: The American System

Front

A topic or problem under discussion or consideration.

Back

Issue

Front

The right and acceptance of an authority, usually a governing law or a regime.

Back

Legitimacy

Front

A system of government by the whole population, typically through elected representatives.

Back

Democracy

Front

A form of democracy in which people decide on policy initiatives directly.

Back

Direct Democracy

Front

A type of democracy founded on the principle of elected officials representing a group of people.

Back

Representative Democracy

Front

The activities associated with the governance of a country or area, especially the debate between parties having power.

Back

Politics

Front

The ability or capacity to do something or act in a particular way.

Back

Power

Front

The power or right to give orders, make decisions, and enforce obedience.

Back

Authority

Front

A group of people considered to be the best in a particular society or category, especially because of their power, talent, or wealth.

Back

Elite

Front

A perspective that sees politics as a reflection of the interests of different social classes.

Back

Class View of Politics