Foundational Principles of the U.S. Constitution

The right to express ideas freely, publish opinions, and gather peacefully without unjust restrictions.

• Freedom of Speech, Press, and Assembly

• Right to Privacy

• Freedom of Religion

• Right to Bear Arms

The power to think and act as one sees fit, as long as it does not interfere with others’ rights or natural law.

• Liberty

• Freedom

• Autonomy

• Independence

The right to own, control, and benefit from personal possessions, beliefs, and the results of one’s labor.

• Private Property

• Public Property

• Common Goods

• Shared Resources

Power is divided and shared between national and state governments, with each having distinct responsibilities.

• Federalism

• Unitary System

• Confederation

• Monarchy

A fair legal and political system that protects everyone's rights equally.

• Justice

• Liberty

• Equality

• Freedom

Government and citizens must follow the same laws, which must be stable and fairly applied to all.

• Rule of Law

• Separation of Powers

• Checks and Balances

• Social Contract

A system where each branch of government can limit the powers of the other branches to maintain balance.

• Separation of Powers

• Checks and Balances

• Federalism

• Judicial Review

Rights which belong to all humans by nature and can only be justly limited through due process. Examples include life, liberty, and property.

• Natural/Inalienable Rights

• Civil Rights

• Legal Rights

• Humanitarian Rights

The right to choose, change, or reject religious beliefs and practices without government interference.

• Freedom of Speech

• Freedom of Assembly

• Freedom of Religion

• Freedom of Expression

A government in which authority is based directly on the will of the people.

• Monarchy

• Oligarchy

• Democracy

• Theocracy