Key Concepts in Political Science

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elitist theory

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theory of democracy that the elites have a disproportionate amount of influence in the policymaking process.

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natural rights

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the right to life, liberty, and property, which government cannot take away.

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inalienable rights

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rights the government cannot take away.

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participatory democracy

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the theory that widespread political participation is essential for democratic government.

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constitutional republic

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a democratic system with elected representatives in which the constitution is the supreme law.

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politics

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the process of influencing the actions and policies of government.

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civil society groups

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an independent association outside the government’s control.

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republicanism

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a system in which the government’s authority comes from the people.

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democracy

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a system of government where power is held by the people.

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popular sovereignty

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the idea that the government’s right to rule comes from the people.