Unit 1 Vocabulary: Foundations of Government

The institution through which a society makes and enforces its public policies; has the power to make and enforce laws over a certain area.

The power to make laws and set public policy.

The power to execute, enforce, and administer laws.

The power to interpret laws, determine their meaning, and settle disputes.

A body of people living in a defined territory who have a government with the power to make and enforce law without the consent of any higher authority.

Having supreme and absolute power within its own territory; not controlled by outside forces.

English philosopher (1632-1704) who argued for natural rights (life, liberty, property), limited government, and the right of people to revolt if government violates their rights; major influence on the Declaration of Independence.

English political philosopher (1588-1679) who wrote Leviathan; believed people needed a strong sovereign government to escape the "state of nature" and maintain order.

French philosopher (1689-1755) who wrote The Spirit of the Laws; developed the theory of separation of powers and checks and balances that influenced the U.S. Constitution.

John Locke's influential work published in 1690 that argued for natural rights, limited government, and the social contract between people and government.