U.S. Government Structure and Principles

The video discusses the crisis of democracy, contrasting democracy with majoritarianism. It explains the founding fathers' vision for the U.S. as a constitutional republic with democratic representation. The video highlights the differences between federal and local governments, the role of the filibuster, and the importance of the constitutional framework in protecting rights and ensuring stability.

What is the main concern highlighted in the introduction regarding democracy?

• The lack of elections

• The tension between popular opinion and democratic processes

• The absence of a constitution

• The influence of foreign powers

Why is pure majoritarianism considered dangerous?

• It strengthens the judicial system

• It eliminates the need for elections

• It can result in the oppression of minorities

• It leads to economic instability

What type of government structure does the United States have?

• A direct democracy

• A constitutional monarchy

• A constitutional republic with democratic representation

• A parliamentary system

How does the U.S. system protect against being driven solely by popular opinion?

• Through direct voting on all issues

• By eliminating elections

• By having a monarchy

• Through representative democracy

What is the role of state and local governments in the U.S. system?

• To act as independent countries

• To implement federal laws without changes

• To provide flexibility and adapt to local needs

• To override federal decisions

Why is the federal government designed to be slow and deliberate?

• To reduce the influence of the judiciary

• To allow for more frequent elections

• To increase the power of the executive branch

• To prevent rapid changes and ensure stability

What is the purpose of the filibuster in the U.S. Senate?

• To eliminate debate on bills

• To allow minority viewpoints to be heard

• To give the majority more power

• To speed up the legislative process

What is the role of the Constitution in the U.S. political system?

• To provide a blank page for legislators

• To serve as a historical document only

• To outline fundamental rights and guide governance

• To be amended every year

How does the judicial branch ensure laws align with the Constitution?

• By conducting elections

• By reviewing and correcting laws that deviate from the Constitution

• By appointing legislators

• By creating new laws

What did the founding fathers recognize about the values of their time?

• They would remain unchanged

• They might not be the values of the future

• They were irrelevant to governance

• They were universally accepted