11-3,4 AP Gov

Necessary and Proper Clause

Answer explanation

Constitutional clause that gives Congress the power to make all laws "necessary and proper" for executing its power. Significant because the necessary and proper clause is what allows implied powers to exsist.

Strict Constructionists

Answer explanation

One who argues a narrow interpretation of the constitution's provisions, in particular those granting powers to the federal government. Signficant because they thought government should only exercise the expressed powers and only those implied powers that are absolutely necessary. They were led by Thomas Jefferson.

Liberal constructionists:

Answer explanation

One who argues a broad interpretation of the provisions of the constitution, particularly those granting powers to the federal government. Led by Alexander Hamilton, they believed that the government's power would not destroy the power of the states.

Consensus:

Answer explanation

general agreement among various groups on fundamental matters; broad agreement on public questions. Significant because the American people have agreed with a broader rather than a narrow reading of the constitution.

Appropriate:

Answer explanation

assign to a particular use. Significant because congress levies taxes and provides for the spending of money for specific purposes like education, unemployment compensation, social security, and medicare.

How has the doctrine of implied powers increased the powers of Congress?

Answer explanation

The doctrine of implied powers has increased the powers of congress because the powers of congress need to keep up with today's needs. Congress has found a basis for exercise of implied powers in the commerce power, its power to tax and spend, and the war powers.

Summarize the main disagreements between strict constructionists and liberal constructionists.

Answer explanation

Strict construction supported a loose interpretation of the constitution. They believed their government needed an energetic government and they marked growth with national power. Supported advanced in national power and belives that a stronger national government helps in war, economic crises, and other national emergencies. Liberal constructionists support a narrow interpretation of the constitution's provisions. They wanted to keep as much power to the state's as possible and they feared a strong national government. They wanted to protect interstate trade and practiced judicial restraint.

Why is the Commerce Clause, written in 1787, still adequate to meet the needs of the nation in the 21st century?

Answer explanation

The commerce clause is still adequate today because commerce has been defined so broadly that it encompasses virtually every form of economic activity today. The commerce clause provides for the building of interstate highways, consumer protection, the protection of the environment, and so on.

Impeach

Answer explanation

To bring formal changes against a public official; Significant because the house has the sole power to impeach and the senate has the sole power to judge, to sit as a court in impeachment cases.

Perjury

Answer explanation

The act of lying under oath. Significant because in Bill Clinton's case some members of the house ruled that perjury was within the meaning of the constitution's phrase,"Other high crimes and misdemeanors".