September 21, 2015Democracy

Ordinary people want to rule themselves and are

capable of doing so.

Review Question: Discuss two reasons why the framers created a

bicameral legislature?

Objective: Students will be able to understand the basic foundations and

definitions of Democracy

I. Democracy

• 2 types (Direct vs. Indirect)

• Political Participation– Types

– “Generation Gap” (Young vs. Old)

II. Democratic Theory

• Majoritarian Viewpt• Elite Class Theory• Pluralist View (No single Elite)• Hyperpluralist View (Pluralism –

Sour)

III. Fundamental Democratic Values

• Popular Sovereignty• Individual vs. Collective• Liberty• Equality (opp. Vs. result)

September 22, 2015Democracy

Review Question: Describe one reason that the framers chose to use the electoral college as the method to

elect the president.

Objective: Students will be able to understand the basic foundations and

definitions of Democracy

IV. Fundamental Democratic Processes

• Free/Fair Elections (comp.)• Majority Rule/Min. Rights• Assemble/Protest

V. Fundamental Democratic Structures

• Federalism• Sep. of Powers• Checks/Balances• Constitutionalism

VI. Challenges to Democracy

• Technology

• Limited Participation

• Campaign Costs

• Policy Gridlock