US Gov Vocabulary 1, words 1-14

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Rule of Law

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The principle that all people and institutions are subject to and accountable to law that is fairly applied and enforced.

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Social Contract

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A theory or model that typically addresses the legitimacy of the authority of the state over the individual.

IF the government protects your rights,

then you support the government.

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John Locke

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An English philosopher and physician, widely regarded as one of the most influential of Enlightenment thinkers and commonly known as the 'Father of Liberalism.'

People give power to the government.

The government must protect our natural rights.

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Thomas Hobbes

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An English philosopher who is considered one of the founders of modern political philosophy, known for his book 'Leviathan', which established social contract theory.

Believed a strong government was needed because otherwise life would be "nasty, brutish, and short."

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Voltaire

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A French Enlightenment writer, historian, and philosopher famous for his wit and his advocacy of freedom of speech, separation of church and state, and freedom of religion.

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Montesquieu

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A French judge, man of letters, and political philosopher who is famous for his articulation of the theory of separation of powers, which is implemented in many constitutions throughout the world.

Checks and balances.

Natural rights include life, liberty, and property.

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Rousseau

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A Genevan philosopher, writer, and composer whose political philosophy influenced the progress of the Enlightenment throughout Europe, as well as aspects of the French Revolution and the development of modern political, economic, and educational thought.

The government has a contract between the ruler and the people.

People give up some rights to receive protection.

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Mayflower Compact

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The first governing document of Plymouth Colony, written by the male passengers of the Mayflower, consisting of Separatist Puritans, adventurers, and tradesmen.

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Thomas Paine

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An English-born American political activist, philosopher, political theorist, and revolutionary, author of 'Common Sense' and 'The American Crisis' which were influential in the American Revolution.

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Common Sense

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A pamphlet written by Thomas Paine in 1775–76 advocating independence from Great Britain to people in the Thirteen Colonies.