Democracy Concepts and Influences

The video tutorial covers the basics of AP Government, focusing on the ideals and types of democracy. It begins with an introduction to the founding era of the United States, highlighting influences from the British constitutional system, political philosophy, and colonial traditions. The tutorial then delves into the characteristics of limited government, discussing concepts like natural rights, the social contract, popular sovereignty, and republicanism. Finally, it explains the different types of democracy, including participatory, pluralist, and elitist, and how they function in practice.

What documents mark the founding era of the United States?

• The Mayflower Compact and the Emancipation Proclamation

• The Magna Carta and the English Bill of Rights

• The Declaration of Independence and the Constitution

• The Articles of Confederation and the Federalist Papers

Which of the following was NOT an influence on the U.S. government?

• The French Revolution

• The Iroquois Confederacy

• The Roman Republic

• The British constitutional system

Who is known for writing about natural rights?

• Baron de Montesquieu

• Thomas Jefferson

• John Locke

• Jean-Jacques Rousseau

What is the main idea behind the social contract?

• Humans surrender some rights for societal protection

• Governments are inherently oppressive

• People have the right to overthrow the government

• All power should be centralized

What does popular sovereignty emphasize?

• The consent of the governed

• The power of the monarchy

• The rule of the elite

• The importance of a strong military

Which type of democracy involves citizens actively participating in all decisions?

• Elitist democracy

• Direct democracy

• Participatory democracy

• Pluralist democracy

In a pluralist democracy, who primarily influences decisions?

• Elected officials

• Wealthy individuals

• Non-governmental groups

• The general public

What is a characteristic of an elitist democracy?

• Decisions are made by the general public

• Decisions are made through direct voting

• Decisions are influenced by wealthy or powerful individuals

• Decisions are made by non-governmental groups

Which of the following is an example of participatory behavior?

• Lobbying by celebrities

• Funding research institutions

• Voting in elections

• Testifying at congressional hearings

What is an example of elitist influence in democracy?

• Social media campaigns

• Public protests

• Community meetings

• Celebrity lobbying