AP Government Vocabulary

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What are the Articles of Confederation?

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Document that served as a framework for a weak central government where states retained significant sovereignty.

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What is a Bicameral legislature?

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A legislature that is divided into two separate chambers, or houses.

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What is elite democracy?

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Holds that a small number of wealthy, educated individuals ultimately shape political decisions.

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What are enumerated powers?

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Powers specifically granted to Congress by the U.S. Constitution.

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What is the Full Faith and Credit Clause?

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The Full Faith and Credit Clause mandates that states honor the laws and judicial decisions of other states.

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What is Judicial Review?

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Judicial review is the power of courts to assess whether a law or government action is in accordance with the constitution.

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What is the Necessary and Proper Clause?

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A provision in the U.S. Constitution that allows Congress to make laws needed to execute its powers.

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What is Participatory Democracy?

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Participatory democracy is a democratic model that emphasizes active citizen engagement in decision-making processes.

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What is Pluralist Democracy?

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A system where multiple groups and interests coexist and compete for influence in governance.

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What is John Locke's Social Contract theory?

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Asserts that government legitimacy comes from the consent of the governed, aimed at protecting natural rights.