Chapter 1 – Constitutional Democracy Reading Comprehension Quiz Multiple Choice Questions 1. The oldest constitutional democracy in the world is A. Greece. B. Great Britain. C. the United States. D. Germany. E. France. Answer: C 2. The government in which those who have governmental authority get that authority as a result of winning free and relatively frequent elections is called A. a republic. B. a constitutional democracy. C. an authoritarian system. D. a direct democracy. E. a representative democracy. Answer: B 3. Winning an election by a plurality would mean that A. a candidate received 60 percent or more of the total vote. B. the election was held under a parliamentary system. C. several candidates are headed for a run-off election. D. one candidate received more votes than any other candidate. E. two or more candidates are running on the same party ticket. Answer: D 4. Which of the following events reinforced the need for a stronger national government? A. Shays’ Rebellion B. The War of 1812 C. The Boston Massacre D. The Civil War E. Abigail Adams’ hunger strike Answer: A 5. The initial proposal at the Constitutional Convention that advocated a legislature with representation in both houses based on population or wealth was called the A. New Jersey Plan. B. New York Plan. C. Great Compromise. D. Virginia Plan. E. three-fifths compromise. Answer: D 6. Supporters of the new government who endorsed ratification were called A. Federalists. B. Antifederalists. C. Compromisers. D. Nationalists. E. Confederates. Answer: A 7. The Antifederalists opposed ratification of the proposed Constitution because A. it included a bill of rights. B. they felt the national government was not given enough power. C. they believed that state governments should be abolished. D. they were concerned that it did not do enough to ensure frequent rotation of elected officials. E. they opposed direct election of members of the House of Representatives. Answer: D 8. Law that is higher than human law is dubbed ____________ law. A. statutory B. universal C. natural D. supreme E. constitutional Answer: C 9. Which article of the Constitution establishes a bicameral Congress? A. Article I B. Article II C. Article III D. Article IV E. Article V Answer: A 10. The Constitution divided power between the state and national governments. This division of power is called ____________________. A. constitutionalism B. separation of powers C. federalism D. unitarianism E. bipartisanship Answer: C 11. The distribution of constitutional authority among the three branches of the national government is known as A. bicameralism. B. federalism. C. divided government. D. autocracy. E. separation of powers. Answer: E 12. Marbury v. Madison (1803) is a landmark Supreme Court case because it A. established national supremacy. B. set the precedent for judicial review. C. defined the scope of state powers. D. affirmed the “necessary and proper” clause. E. outlawed segregation. Answer: B 13. A court order directing an official to perform an official duty is called a(n) A. writ of certiorari. B. executive order. C. writ of mandamus. D. impoundment. E. judicial review. Answer: C 14. A directive issued by a president or governor that has the force of law is known as A. impoundment. B. an executive order. C. a legislative veto. D. impeachment. E. divided government. Answer: B 15. The idea that the Constitution is a changing and evolving document that should be interpreted in light of the needs of the time is known as A. the originalist approach. B. the revisionist approach. C. the activist approach. D. the Marshall approach. E. the adaptive approach. Answer: E True/False Questions 1. The democracy that has emerged under the U.S. Constitution requires that citizens do NOT participate and that all citizens maintain an unchallenged faith in government. Answer: False 2. Thomas Jefferson was the author of the Declaration of Independence. Answer: True 3. The word democracy comes from two Greek words: demos (the people) and kratos (authority or power). Answer: True 4. The writings of John Locke exerted a heavy influence on the framers of the Constitution. Answer: True 5. Bicameralism refers to a two-house legislature. Answer: True 6. To secure ratification, supporters of the Constitution promised a presidential veto power that would be added as soon as the new government was established. Answer: False 7. The United States has the longest written constitution in the world. Answer: False 8. The important contribution that the framers of the Constitution made to the principle of separation of powers was to divide powers but also overlap them so that no institution could take decisive action on its own. Answer: True 9. Judicial review is known as a formal way to amend the Constitution. Answer: False 10. The framers knew that future experiences would call for changes in the text of the Constitution and that eventually it would need to be formally amended. Answer: True Chapter Examination Multiple Choice Questions 1. Thomas Jefferson believed in all of the following EXCEPT A. popular control. B. representative processes. C. accountable leadership. D. the common sense of the people. E. government by special interests. Answer: E 2. According to the text, “government by the people” means all of the following EXCEPT A. active participation. B. popular control. C. faith in government. D. skepticism of government. E. everyone must be involved in politics. Answer: E 3. The author of the Declaration of Independence was A. Alexander Hamilton. B. James Madison. C. Thomas Jefferson. D. John Adams. E. Benjamin Franklin. Answer: C 4. The distinguishing feature of democracy is A. that government derives its authority from its citizens. B. the fact that so many government officials face popular elections. C. the concentration of governmental authority in the hands of a few individuals. D. the protection of a nation from foreign threats. E. a commitment to a written constitution that cannot be changed. Answer: A 5. The town of Rock Ridge has called together its residents to meet in the town hall to discuss and vote on its sales tax. This is an example of A. direct democracy. B. elite manipulation. C. temporary insanity. D. constitutional interpretation. E. representative democracy. Answer: A 6. Believers in democracy do NOT accept A. statism. B. equality. C. individualism. D. liberty. E. self-determination. Answer: A 7. The essence of _______ is self-determination. A. personal liberty B. respect of the individual C. equality of opportunity D. popular consent E. statism Answer: A 8. In Cuba there is an emphasis on governmental authority (including control of the economy) over the rights of individuals. This is an example of A. equality. B. corporatism. C. fascism. D. popular consent. E. statism. Answer: E 9. John Smith has just been elected to the U.S. House of Representatives, having received 40 percent of the vote. His opponents received 35 percent and 25 percent of the vote, respectively. Smith’s victory is an example of A. realignment. B. majority rule. C. popular consent. D. minority rights. E. plurality rule. Answer: E 10. Direct democracy A. generally involves the manipulation of public opinion by political elites. B. permits citizens to directly vote on laws and select officials. C. is a form of government in which a single person has ultimate power. D. is the form of government found in China today. E. requires the choosing of representatives who are responsible for formulating governmental policy. Answer: B 11. The United States is a ____________________. A. representative democracy B. direct democracy C. oligarchy D. pure democracy E. confederation Answer: A 12. Which of the following is NOT mentioned by the authors as a condition conducive to the existence of constitutional democracy? A. Relative economic prosperity B. A society without fragmentation into groups that fiercely disagree on fundamental issues C. Relatively widespread agreement on ideological components of democracy D. Limited geographic scope of a nation E. A relatively educated population Answer: D 13. The set of arrangements (including checks and balances, federalism, separation of powers, rule of law, due process, and a bill of rights) that requires leaders to listen, think, bargain, and explain prior to making laws is called A. personal liberty. B. a priori rationalization. C. constitutionalism. D. natural law. E. the divine right of the people. Answer: C 14. The principle that everyone has the opportunity to realize his or her own goals is called A. autonomy. B. self-determination. C. hegemony. D. negative freedom. E. balance of powers. Answer: B 15. Statism is the idea that the rights of the nation are supreme over the rights of the A. popular consent. B. region. C. individual. D. community. E. government. Answer: C 16. The idea that a just government must derive its powers from the people it governs is called A. equality. B. popular consent. C. electoral politics. D. equality of opportunity. E. statism. Answer: B 17. Governance according to the expressed preferences of the majority is known as A. majority rule. B. statism. C. tyranny of the majority. D. individual rights. E. plurality principle. Answer: A 18. Which of the following is NOT a political process that is part of democracy? A. The right to assemble and protest B. Free and fair elections C. Annual public elections of political leaders D. Freedom of expression E. Majority and plurality rule Answer: C 19. A distinctive element of the U.S. constitutional system under the original Constitution includes which of the following? A. States’ rights B. Judicial supremacy C. Bicameralism D. Executive hegemony E. Popular elections for all national officials Answer: C 20. The Constitutional Convention was held in A. Annapolis. B. Detroit. C. Los Angeles. D. Philadelphia. E. New York. Answer: D 21. Shays’ Rebellion A. was the initial uprising by the Americans against the British in 1753. B. demonstrated the need for every state to deal with domestic unrest on its own. C. was a revolt by slaves in South Carolina that led to the inclusion of the three-fifths compromise in the Constitution. D. was an uprising by farmers in western Massachusetts protesting mortgage foreclosures. E. was suppressed by the U.S. Marines. Answer: D 22. The delegates to the Constitutional Convention can best be described as A. representative of both men and women. B. a cross-section of all crafts, trades, and laborers. C. all white male landowners. D. all committed Antifederalists. E. former slaves from southern states. Answer: C 23. In a balanced government A. no single interest dominates. B. Democrats and Republicans are guaranteed equal representation in the legislature. C. the president and Congress have no shared powers. D. state governments can veto laws of the national government. E. the people must approve constitutional amendments by popular vote. Answer: A 24. The best characterization of the framers of the Constitution would be A. visionary idealists. B. political philosophers. C. experienced, practical politicians. D. spokesmen for the average person. E. ordinary people. Answer: C 25. The New Jersey Plan included all of the following EXCEPT A. it was derived from states, based on equal votes for each state. B. it said the government could compel obedience to national laws. C. a bicameral legislature. D. ratification would be done by the states. E. the federal government would have no power over the states. Answer: C 26. The three-fifths compromise was mainly a compromise between A. Whigs and Democratic Republicans. B. northern and southern states. C. Federalists and Antifederalists. D. large and small states. E. the Senate and the House of Representatives. Answer: B 27. As a delegate from a small state at the Constitutional Convention, you would have been most likely to support the ________________ as the basis for representation in the legislature. A. Connecticut Plan B. Bicameral Plan C. New Jersey Plan D. Supremacy clause E. Virginia Plan Answer: C 28. The framers of the Constitution ultimately agreed that the president should be elected by the A. Senate. B. people. C. electoral college. D. House of Representatives. E. state legislatures. Answer: C 29. Legislatures that have two houses, or chambers, are A. unicameral. B. bicameral. C. replicative. D. undemocratic. E. bipolar. Answer: B 30. At the Constitutional Convention, which plan contained the idea of what would eventually become the supremacy clause? A. Virginia Plan B. Judicial Plan C. Connecticut Compromise D. New York Plan E. New Jersey Plan Answer: E 31. The Federalists favored A. strong state governments, relative to the central government. B. an all-powerful central government. C. strong ties to Native American tribes. D. strong economic ties to Europe. E. a strong central government, relative to the state governments. Answer: E 32. One reason the Federalists argued against inclusion of a bill of rights in the Constitution was A. that explicit guarantee of some rights might imply that other rights did not exist. B. because they believed that all rights were already covered by the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution. C. they held the fear that trying to come to an agreement on what rights to include would tear the new country apart. D. that all states currently had their own bill of rights. E. that they felt any disagreement about rights would be covered by decisions by the Supreme Court. Answer: A 33. Which of the following was an author of The Federalist? A. Thomas Jefferson B. Patrick Henry C. James Madison D. George Washington E. John Marshall Answer: C 34. The Antifederalists opposed the ratification of the Constitution because of all of the following EXCEPT A. it favored the creation of a strong central government. B. it might be used to impose barriers against commerce. C. it advocated the frequent rotation of public office. D. it did not contain a bill of rights. E. they thought state and local governments would be more responsive to local needs and concerns. Answer: C 35. The ____________________ opposed the ratification of the Constitution. A. Antifederalists B. Federalists C. Democrats D. Republicans E. Whigs Answer: A 36. The new Constitution was to be ratified by A. a general referendum of all citizens. B. state legislatures. C. the new Senate. D. unanimous approval by members of the Continental Congress. E. popularly elected conventions in nine states. Answer: E 37. In 1789, during the ratification process, the Constitution A. did not include a bill of rights. B. called for a unicameral Congress. C. incorporated a clause to give equal protection under the law. D. was widely supported by the Antifederalists. E. created a system in which the president would have all the power in the federal government. Answer: A 38. Antifederalists tended to be from A. coastal regions. B. rich families. C. major cities. D. backcountry regions. E. All of the above Answer: D 39. The Federalist was A. a series of essays written to encourage ratification of the proposed Constitution. B. published in newspapers in the southern states to convince them that the proposed Constitution would leave states with the same powers they had under the Articles of Confederation. C. used as a device by the Antifederalists to encourage opposition to the Annapolis Convention. D. written by Thomas Jefferson while he was in Paris as the U.S. ambassador to France. E. written by George Washington explaining the reasons for American independence. Answer: A 40. How many states were required to ratify the Constitution in order for it to take effect? A. 5 B. 7 C. 9 D. 11 E. 13 Answer: C 41. Who led the opposition to the Constitution at the Virginia ratifying convention? A. Patrick Henry B. Thomas Paine C. Samuel Adams D. Benjamin Franklin E. Aaron Burr Answer: A 42. What article of the Constitution establishes the executive power and the president? A. Article I B. Article II C. Article III D. Article IV E. Article V Answer: B 43. Which of the following is an explanation of natural law? A. Law that defines right from wrong B. Law that is found only in constitutions C. Law that is enacted by a legislature D. Law that is proposed by the executive E. Law that is overturned by the judiciary Answer: A 44. The idea that government must be able to control itself is expressed by James Madison in The Federalist A. No. 51 B. No. 10. C. No. 18. D. No. 72. E. No. 3. Answer: A 45. Which country has the world’s oldest written constitution? A. France B. Germany C. England D. The United States E. Mexico Answer: D 46. Article _________ of the Constitution created the Supreme Court. A. I B. II C. III D. IV E. V Answer: C 47. _______________ is a constitutional grant of powers that enables each of the three branches of government to check some acts of the others and therefore ensure that no branch can dominate. A. Separation of powers B. Federalism C. Checks and balances D. Divided government E. Tyranny Answer: C 48. Which of the following is a way in which the president can check other branches? A. Vetoing acts of Congress B. Removing federal judges C. Cutting salaries for members of Congress D. Calling special elections E. Declaring war Answer: A 49. Which of the following is a way in which the Supreme Court can check other branches? A. Removing the president from office B. Declaring acts of Congress unconstitutional C. Refusing to fund programs established by Congress D. Calling for a special session of Congress E. Changing the inauguration date of presidents Answer: B 50. The legislative branch can A. pardon persons convicted of federal crimes. B. override presidential vetoes. C. pass ex post facto laws. D. nominate individuals to serve as federal justices. E. go public. Answer: B 51. The term separation of powers refers to the A. individual powers of a president being separated among his cabinet secretaries. B. separation of the Congress into the House and the Senate. C. allocation of power among the three branches of government. D. belief that the federal government should be subservient to the state governments. E. separation of powers between the federal government and the state governments. Answer: C 52. The allocation of certain powers to the national government and other powers to states is called A. bicameralism. B. divided government. C. statism. D. federalism. E. separation of powers. Answer: D 53. Which of the following statements regarding judicial review is correct? A. The framers purposely did not include it in the Constitution because they believed the judiciary should never have this authority. B. The framers of the Constitution likely assumed that Congress would abolish the judiciary quickly and therefore did not feel judicial review was necessary. C. The framers clearly intended that the Supreme Court would not have the power to declare state legislation unconstitutional. D. The framers never considered the possibility that the judiciary would do anything other than preside over criminal trials, making judicial review irrelevant. E. The framers probably did not include it in the Constitution because they believed justices could infer they had the power, from certain general provisions and the necessity of interpreting and applying a written constitution. Answer: E 54. Which of the following statements regarding judicial review is correct? A. It was first asserted in the case of Gibbons v. Ogden. B. It was defined in legislation passed in 1789. C. It is not mentioned in the Constitution. D. The United States is the only country in the world that uses it. E. It was first established in the United States under the Articles of Confederation. Answer: C 55. The Supreme Court’s power of judicial review was established in the case of A. Roe v. Wade. B. McCulloch v. Maryland. C. Marbury v. Madison. D. Brown v. Board of Education. E. District of Columbia v. Heller. Answer: C 56. The power to strike down a law or a government regulation that judges believe conflicts with the Constitution is known as A. an executive order. B. a writ of certiorari. C. impoundment. D. judicial review. E. a writ of mandamus Answer: D 57. The Judiciary Act of 1789 A. formally created the power of judicial review. B. gave the Supreme Court the authority to issue writs of mandamus. C. increased the number of justices on the Supreme Court to 23. D. gave the president the power to remove justices from the Supreme Court. E. was vetoed by President Andrew Jackson. Answer: B 58. The political system is kept up-to-date through changes in the informal, unwritten Constitution mainly through A. basic statutes and historical practices of Congress. B. presidential actions. C. Supreme Court decisions. D. congressional elaboration. E. All of the above Answer: E 59. ____________ is the power to keep executive communications confidential, especially if they relate to national security. A. Presidential secrecy B. Impoundment C. Executive privilege D. Presidential prerogative E. Executive order Answer: C 60. Presidential refusal to allow an agency to spend funds that Congress authorized and appropriated is called A. executive stubbornness. B. treason. C. line-item veto. D. executive privilege. E. impoundment. Answer: E 61. Which of the following is a practice that illustrates the growth of presidential power beyond powers explicitly listed in the Constitution? A. Vetoes of legislation passed by Congress B. The use of executive orders C. The signing of treaties with foreign countries D. Declaring war E. Appointing justices to federal courts Answer: B 62. A formal accusation by the lower house of a legislature against a public official, the first step in removal from office, is called A. executive ordering. B. impoundment. C. impeachment. D. congressional control. E. judicial prerogative. Answer: C 63. How many states must ratify an amendment to the Constitution? A. One-half B. Two-thirds C. Three-fourths D. All the states E. All the states and the District of Columbia Answer: C 64. The originalist approach to constitutional interpretation A. argues that the Constitution should be understood according to the framers’ intent. B. was first espoused by Charles Beard in The Antifederalist. C. has been ruled unconstitutional by the Supreme Court. D. sees the Constitution as a changing and evolving document that provides a basic framework for government. E. believes that George Washington was the original author of the Declaration of Independence. Answer: A 65. The adaptive approach to constitutional interpretation A. would likely enhance the authority of the president. B. forces constitutional change to occur only through constitutional amendments. C. has been ruled unconstitutional by the Supreme Court. D. makes the judiciary a more powerful actor in American politics. E. All of the above Answer: D 66. The only method used thus far to propose amendments to the Constitution is A. a two-thirds vote of both houses of Congress. B. state conventions. C. state legislatures. D. popular mandate. E. introduction by the president. Answer: A 67. Amendments to the U.S. Constitution A. may be proposed by a simple majority vote in both chambers of Congress. B. may be ratified by approval of two-thirds of state legislatures. C. may be proposed at a convention called by Congress at the request of the legislatures in two- thirds of the states. D. must be approved by the president. E. All of the above Answer: C 68. With one exception, ratification of constitutional amendments has been by action of A. the president. B. the Supreme Court. C. state conventions. D. national conventions. E. state legislatures. Answer: E True/False Questions 1. “Government by the people” means that everyone must be involved in politics and policy making. Answer: False 2. The text states that the ideal politician is a myth. Answer: True 3. Constitutional democracy means government by representative politicians. Answer: True 4. The word democracy comes from the Greek words demos and kratos. Answer: True 5. The idea that a just government must derive its powers from the consent of the people it governs is known as popular consent. Answer: True 6. Self-determination means that all individuals have the opportunity to realize their own goals. Answer: True 7. Free and fair elections require that everyone has equal political influence. Answer: False 8. To win a plurality a candidate must receive over 50 percent of the votes. Answer: False 9. Shays’ Rebellion was an uprising by farmers protesting mortgage foreclosures. Answer: True 10. The modern Constitution is the one that was implemented in 1781 and has been the only basis for American government since that time. Answer: False 11. The delegates to the Constitutional Convention were mostly uneducated farm laborers. Answer: False 12. The Connecticut Compromise called for the president to be elected by the legislature. Answer: False 13. If the Constitutional Convention were held today, the delegates would likely be more diverse than they were in 1787. Answer: True 14. The Virginia Plan called for a unicameral legislature with all states having equal representation. Answer: False 15. Under the three-fifths compromise, slaves would NOT be counted toward a state’s population for determining representation in the House of Representatives. Answer: False 16. A farmer would have been more likely to be an Antifederalist. Answer: True 17. A wealthy person would have been more likely to be a Federalist. Answer: True 18. George Washington was the primary author of The Federalist. Answer: False 19. Antifederalists strongly supported ratification of the Constitution. Answer: False 20. Support for ratification of the Constitution was partly determined by the geographic location of the delegates. Answer: True 21. The United States has the world’s oldest written constitution. Answer: True 22. The U.S. Constitution is a highly detailed document with specificity on a wide range of topics. Answer: False 23. Article I of the Constitution establishes a bicameral Congress. Answer: True 24. Natural law is law that defines right from wrong and is viewed as being higher than human law. Answer: True 25. The Senate and House of Representatives have an absolute veto over one another. Answer: True 26. The separation of authority in the national government among the three branches is called divided government. Answer: False 27. According to the text, the most important means the framers of the Constitution devised to make public officials observe the constitutional limits on their powers was free and fair elections. Answer: True 28. The Court’s authority of judicial review is explicitly outlined in the Constitution. Answer: False 29. Federalists supported a strong role for the federal courts and the idea of judicial review. Answer: True 30. Judicial review refers to the power to strike down a law or a government regulation that judges believe conflicts with the Constitution. Answer: True 31. A writ of certiorari is a court order directing an official to perform an official duty. Answer: False 32. The court’s authority of judicial review was originally established in the Marbury v. Madison (1803) case. Answer: True 33. Executive privilege refers to presidential refusal to allow an agency to spend funds that Congress authorized and appropriated. Answer: False 34. Article II of the Constitution provides for impeachment and removal of the president and other civil officers for “Misdemeanors or Malfeasance.” Answer: False 35. Constitutional amendments may be proposed at a convention called by Congress at the request of the legislatures in two-thirds of the states. Answer: True Short Answer Questions 1. Identify three necessities of a constitutional democracy. Answer: Necessities of a constitutional democracy: • Protection of individual rights and freedoms. • Rule of law, ensuring laws apply equally to all citizens. • Separation of powers, dividing government into branches to prevent abuse of power. 2. Discuss the conflicting beliefs of Thomas Jefferson regarding constitutional democracy and the appropriate role of the people. Answer: Conflicting beliefs of Thomas Jefferson: • Advocated for the will of the people in governance but was wary of potential tyranny of the majority. • Supported a limited government to protect individual liberties yet valued an educated electorate to ensure responsible decision-making. 3. Define direct democracy and give two examples of forms of direct democracy. Answer: Direct democracy: • A form of democracy where citizens directly participate in decision-making. • Examples: Referendums and initiatives. 4. Explain the difference between majority rule and plurality rule. Answer: Difference between majority rule and plurality rule: • Majority rule: A decision is made when more than half the participants agree. • Plurality rule: The decision is made by the largest number of votes, even if it is less than a majority. 5. Explain what is meant by representative democracy. Answer: Representative democracy: • A system of government where citizens elect representatives to make decisions on their behalf. 6. Define statism and give an example. Answer: Statism: • The belief in extensive government control over economic and social policies. • Example: The Soviet Union under communist rule. 7. Explain Shays’ Rebellion and its importance in the creation of the Constitution. Answer: Shays’ Rebellion: • An armed uprising in 1786-1787 by Massachusetts farmers protesting economic injustices and high taxes. • Highlighted the weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation, leading to the Constitutional Convention. 8. Define the three-fifths compromise and identify the disagreement it resolved. Answer: Three-fifths compromise: • Agreement that each enslaved person would be counted as three-fifths of a person for taxation and representation purposes. • Resolved the dispute between Northern and Southern states over population count for legislative representation. 9. Define the Connecticut Compromise and identify the disagreement it resolved. Answer: Connecticut Compromise: • Proposed a bicameral legislature with proportional representation in the House and equal representation in the Senate. • Resolved disagreement between large and small states over legislative representation. 10. Describe the process of the ratification of the Constitution. Answer: Ratification of the Constitution: • Required approval from nine out of the thirteen states through special conventions. • Debates between Federalists and Antifederalists shaped the process, leading to the Bill of Rights. 11. Define The Federalist and explain its importance in the ratification of the Constitution. Answer: The Federalist: • A series of essays written by Hamilton, Madison, and Jay advocating for the ratification of the Constitution. • Played a crucial role in persuading states to adopt the new Constitution. 12. Discuss three reasons the Antifederalists opposed ratification of the Constitution. Answer: Antifederalists' opposition to the Constitution: • Feared a strong central government would erode individual liberties. • Concerned about the lack of a Bill of Rights. • Believed it gave too much power to the national government at the expense of the states. 13. Compare the length and specificity of the U.S. Constitution to constitutions of other countries. Answer: Length and specificity of the U.S. Constitution: • The U.S. Constitution is relatively brief and general compared to many other countries' constitutions, which often contain more detailed provisions. 14. Define checks and balances and give three examples of checks in the U.S. Constitution. Answer: Checks and balances: • System ensuring no single branch of government becomes too powerful. • Examples: Presidential veto, Congressional power to impeach, Judicial review. 15. Define separation of powers and explain how it works in the United States. Answer: Separation of powers: • Division of government into three branches: executive, legislative, and judicial. • Each branch has distinct functions and powers to prevent abuse. 16. Define judicial review and explain how it is a judicial check on the other branches. Answer: Judicial review: • The power of courts to declare laws and actions of the government unconstitutional. • Acts as a check by the judiciary on the legislative and executive branches. 17. What was the subject of the Marbury v. Madison (1803) case, and what was the case’s most significant effect? Answer: Marbury v. Madison (1803): • Case involving William Marbury's commission as a justice of the peace. • Established the principle of judicial review. 18. Define executive orders and explain their relationship to the growth of presidential power. Answer: Executive orders: • Directives issued by the president to manage operations of the federal government. • Have contributed to the expansion of presidential power. 19. Identify potential problems with both the originalist and adaptive approaches to constitutional interpretation. Answer: Problems with originalist and adaptive approaches: • Originalist: Can be rigid and may not account for contemporary issues. • Adaptive: Can lead to unpredictable interpretations and perceived judicial activism. 20. Identify one way in which constitutional amendments can be ratified and note an example of the method used. Answer: Ratification of constitutional amendments: • Can be ratified by three-fourths of state legislatures. • Example: The 21st Amendment, which repealed Prohibition. Essay Questions 1. Explain why the text suggests that United States citizens will never be satisfied with their political candidates and politicians. Do you agree? Why or why not? Answer: The text suggests that United States citizens will never be satisfied with their political candidates and politicians because of the inherent diversity of opinions, interests, and expectations within the population. This diversity makes it challenging for any one candidate or politician to meet the varied demands and ideals of all constituents. Agree/Disagree: • Agree: This constant dissatisfaction can drive political accountability and push for continuous improvement and reform. • Disagree: Persistent dissatisfaction can lead to political cynicism, decreased voter turnout, and a lack of trust in the political system, potentially harming democratic processes. 2. Identify the economic conditions most conducive to democracy. Answer: The economic conditions most conducive to democracy include: 1. Strong and Stable Middle Class: A robust middle class provides economic security and fosters political participation. 2. Economic Growth: Consistent economic growth creates opportunities and reduces poverty, contributing to social stability. 3. Equitable Wealth Distribution: Reducing economic inequality ensures that all citizens have a stake in the system and reduces social tensions. 4. Property Rights Protection: Secure property rights encourage investment and economic activity, supporting democratic institutions. 5. Low Unemployment: High employment rates contribute to economic stability and reduce social unrest. 3. Identify the social conditions most conducive to democracy. Answer: The social conditions most conducive to democracy include: 1. High Levels of Education: Educated citizens are better informed about political issues and more likely to participate in democratic processes. 2. Strong Civil Society: Active and independent organizations, such as NGOs, community groups, and free media, promote civic engagement and hold the government accountable. 3. Respect for Individual Rights and Freedoms: Ensuring civil liberties and human rights allows diverse voices to be heard and valued. 4. Social Cohesion and Inclusion: A sense of community and inclusion across different social groups fosters unity and collaborative problem-solving. 5. Rule of Law: A strong legal framework that applies equally to all citizens upholds justice and fairness, essential for democratic governance. 4. Evaluate majority rule and plurality rule as elements of democracy. Answer: Evaluate majority rule and plurality rule as elements of democracy. Majority Rule: • Pros: Ensures decisions reflect the will of more than half the population, promoting legitimacy and stability. • Cons: Can lead to the "tyranny of the majority," where the rights of minority groups are overlooked or oppressed. Plurality Rule: • Pros: Allows for decision-making without needing an absolute majority, which can be more efficient and practical in elections with multiple candidates. • Cons: Can result in leaders being elected without broad support, as a candidate can win with the largest minority of votes, potentially leading to weaker legitimacy. 5. Evaluate the characteristics of the delegates to the Constitutional Convention and the impact of this on the Constitution. Answer: Evaluate the characteristics of the delegates to the Constitutional Convention and the impact of this on the Constitution. Characteristics of Delegates: • Predominantly wealthy, educated men with substantial political experience. • Many were landowners, lawyers, and businessmen with a vested interest in property rights and economic stability. Impact on the Constitution: • Emphasis on Stability: The delegates' desire for a stable government led to a strong framework with checks and balances. • Property Rights: Their socioeconomic status influenced provisions protecting property rights and economic interests. • Limited Direct Democracy: Fear of mob rule and distrust of direct democracy led to the creation of a representative democracy with indirect election methods, such as the Electoral College. • Compromises on Slavery and Representation: Their diverse interests necessitated compromises like the Three-Fifths Compromise and the Connecticut Compromise, shaping the legislative structure and addressing contentious issues to ensure broader acceptance. 6. Explain the importance of compromise in the Constitutional Convention. Answer: Compromise was crucial at the Constitutional Convention because it enabled delegates with diverse interests and perspectives to reach agreements on foundational issues. Without compromise, the convention could have ended in deadlock, preventing the creation of a unified and functional government. Compromise ensured that various regional, economic, and political interests were considered, leading to a Constitution that balanced power among different factions and made the new government more widely acceptable. 7. Identify the most important compromises achieved by the delegates to the Constitutional Convention of 1787. 1. The Great (Connecticut) Compromise: • Issue: Representation in Congress. • Compromise: Created a bicameral legislature with proportional representation in the House of Representatives and equal representation in the Senate. 2. Three-Fifths Compromise: • Issue: Counting enslaved individuals for taxation and representation. • Compromise: Each enslaved person would be counted as three-fifths of a person for both representation and taxation purposes. 3. Commerce and Slave Trade Compromise: • Issue: Regulation of commerce and the slave trade. • Compromise: Allowed the federal government to regulate interstate and international commerce but prohibited any laws banning the slave trade for 20 years. 4. Electoral College Compromise: • Issue: Method of electing the President. • Compromise: Established the Electoral College system, balancing the influence of populous and less populous states. These compromises were essential in securing the agreement of delegates from different states and ensuring the ratification of the Constitution. 8. Evaluate the Virginia Plan and the New Jersey Plan as alternative models for government discussed at the Constitutional Convention. Answer: Virginia Plan: • Description: Proposed by James Madison, it called for a strong central government with a bicameral legislature based on proportional representation. The plan favored larger states due to its emphasis on population size. • Pros: Aimed to create a more effective and centralized government, addressing weaknesses in the Articles of Confederation. • Cons: Smaller states opposed it, as it would diminish their influence relative to larger states. New Jersey Plan: • Description: Proposed by William Paterson, it called for a unicameral legislature with equal representation for each state, maintaining the framework of the Articles of Confederation but with enhanced federal powers. • Pros: Protected the interests of smaller states by ensuring equal representation, promoting a more federated structure. • Cons: Did not adequately address the need for a stronger central government and was seen as insufficient for addressing national issues. Evaluation: • The Virginia Plan addressed the need for a stronger central government and more equitable representation based on population, while the New Jersey Plan preserved state sovereignty and equal representation but lacked comprehensive reform. The resulting Great Compromise combined elements of both plans, balancing the needs of both large and small states. 9. Evaluate the importance of a bill of rights as a component of a democratic constitution and the role of a bill of rights in the debate over ratification of the U.S. Constitution. Answer: Importance of a Bill of Rights: • Protection of Individual Liberties: Ensures fundamental freedoms and rights, such as freedom of speech, religion, and due process, are protected from government infringement. • Legitimacy and Trust: Provides a clear framework for safeguarding citizens' rights, enhancing public trust in the government and its commitment to protecting individual freedoms. Role in the Ratification Debate: • Antifederalist Concerns: Many Antifederalists opposed ratification of the Constitution without a Bill of Rights, fearing that the new, stronger central government could infringe on individual liberties. • Federalist Response: Federalists initially argued that a Bill of Rights was unnecessary because the Constitution's structure would protect rights, but they later agreed to add it to secure ratification. • Outcome: The promise to add a Bill of Rights helped secure ratification by addressing concerns and ensuring protections for individual liberties, leading to the adoption of the first ten amendments, known as the Bill of Rights. 10. Evaluate the arguments in favor of and against the ratification of the Constitution. Answer: Arguments in Favor of Ratification: • Strong Central Government: Advocates argued that the new Constitution created a stronger federal government capable of addressing the weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation, such as ineffective taxation and regulation of commerce. • Checks and Balances: Supporters emphasized the Constitution’s system of checks and balances and separation of powers to prevent any one branch from becoming too powerful. • Economic Stability: The Constitution would provide a framework for economic stability and growth, including the ability to regulate interstate commerce and provide for a national currency. Arguments Against Ratification: • Lack of Bill of Rights: Critics feared the absence of a Bill of Rights meant the new government could infringe on individual liberties and civil rights. • Too Much Central Power: Opponents, particularly Antifederalists, were concerned that the Constitution granted too much power to the federal government at the expense of states’ rights and individual freedoms. • Risk of Tyranny: There was a concern that a strong executive branch could lead to a form of tyranny similar to what was experienced under British rule. 11. Describe the Antifederalists and evaluate their objections to the Constitution. Do you believe their fears were warranted? Why or why not? Answer: Antifederalists: • Description: The Antifederalists were a diverse group, including farmers, small business owners, and some politicians, who opposed the ratification of the Constitution. They feared that a strong central government would infringe on individual rights and state sovereignty. Objections to the Constitution: • Lack of Bill of Rights: Antifederalists argued that the absence of a Bill of Rights left citizens vulnerable to potential government overreach and abuse. • Centralization of Power: They were concerned that the Constitution concentrated too much power in the federal government, undermining states’ rights and local control. • Potential for Tyranny: They feared that the structure of the new government, particularly the executive branch, could lead to the emergence of a tyrannical leader similar to the monarchy they had fought against. Evaluation of Their Fears: • Warranted: Their concerns about individual liberties were addressed with the addition of the Bill of Rights, which has played a crucial role in protecting civil liberties. The checks and balances system has also helped mitigate the risk of tyranny. • Not Warranted: The Constitution’s design, with its separation of powers and federalism, has provided a robust framework for governance without leading to the centralization of power or tyranny. Over time, the system has proven adaptable to changing needs and has generally safeguarded against excessive government overreach. 12. James Madison claimed that for democracy to work “you must first enable the government to control the governed; and in the next place oblige it control itself.” Do you agree with this statement? In what ways does it apply to the government in the United States? Answer: Agreement with the Statement: • Yes: Madison's statement captures two essential principles for a functioning democracy: the need for effective governance and the importance of limiting government power to prevent abuse. Application to the U.S. Government: 1. Enabling the Government to Control the Governed: The U.S. Constitution provides a framework for government authority through various institutions, including the executive, legislative, and judicial branches. These institutions are designed to address national issues and enforce laws effectively. 2. Obliging the Government to Control Itself: The Constitution incorporates checks and balances, such as the veto power of the president, the impeachment process, and judicial review, to ensure that no single branch becomes too powerful. This system of checks and balances ensures that the government remains accountable and prevents overreach. 13. Explain two ways in which the Constitution limits governmental authority. Answer: 1. Separation of Powers: • Description: The Constitution divides government into three branches: legislative, executive, and judicial. Each branch has distinct powers and responsibilities, ensuring that no single branch dominates the others. • Impact: This separation prevents any one branch from exercising unchecked power and encourages collaboration and accountability among the branches. 2. Bill of Rights: • Description: The first ten amendments to the Constitution, known as the Bill of Rights, protect individual liberties and limit the scope of government power. These amendments guarantee fundamental rights such as freedom of speech, religion, and due process. • Impact: The Bill of Rights provides a legal framework for protecting citizens from potential government overreach and ensures that fundamental rights are upheld. 14. Evaluate the effect of Marbury v. Madison (1803) on the role of the judiciary in a separation- of-powers system. Answer: Marbury v. Madison (1803): • Establishment of Judicial Review: The case established the principle of judicial review, which allows the Supreme Court to invalidate laws and executive actions that are deemed unconstitutional. • Impact on Judiciary: It cemented the role of the judiciary as an essential check on the other branches of government, ensuring that legislative and executive actions comply with the Constitution. This decision reinforced the judiciary’s authority and independence, enabling it to act as a guardian of constitutional principles and safeguard individual rights. 15. What aspects of our political system would be different had the Supreme Court decided in favor of Marbury in the Marbury v. Madison (1803) case? Answer: Scenario: • Immediate Impact: If the Supreme Court had decided in favor of Marbury by granting his commission, it would have involved the judiciary directly in the executive and legislative functions, potentially leading to conflicts between the branches. Aspects of the Political System That Would Be Different: 1. Judicial Review: Without Marbury v. Madison establishing judicial review, the judiciary might have lacked the authority to overturn unconstitutional laws. This could have diminished the Court’s role in maintaining constitutional checks and balances. 2. Branch Power Dynamics: The decision in favor of Marbury might have set a precedent for greater judicial intervention in executive decisions, potentially altering the balance of power and reducing the independence of the executive branch. 3. Constitutional Interpretation: The absence of judicial review could have led to less consistent enforcement of constitutional principles and more significant potential for abuses by the legislative and executive branches. 16. Identify ways in which the power of the president has expanded beyond those listed in the Constitution. Answer: 1. Executive Orders and Actions: • Description: Presidents issue executive orders to manage federal operations and influence policy without Congressional approval. • Expansion: This has allowed presidents to take significant actions in areas such as immigration and environmental policy, often extending their influence beyond the scope initially outlined in the Constitution. 2. National Emergency Powers: • Description: Presidents can declare national emergencies, which grant them broad powers to address crises. • Expansion: This has been used to implement policies and actions that might not be explicitly authorized by Congress or the Constitution. 3. War Powers: • Description: Presidents have increasingly engaged in military conflicts without formal Congressional declarations of war. • Expansion: This has expanded the executive’s role in foreign policy and military operations, often leading to extended military engagements without direct legislative approval. 4. Executive Agreements: • Description: Presidents enter into international agreements without Senate ratification. • Expansion: This practice has allowed for the negotiation of significant international deals and treaties, bypassing the traditional treaty ratification process. 17. Evaluate the dangers of both the originalist and adaptive approaches to the Constitution in the context of the District of Columbia v. Heller (2008) Supreme Court ruling. Answer: Originalist Approach: • Dangers: • May lead to rigid interpretations that do not account for modern contexts or societal changes. • In Heller, an originalist interpretation of the Second Amendment emphasized individual gun rights, which some argue may not fully address contemporary issues like gun control and public safety. Adaptive Approach: • Dangers: • Can lead to judicial activism and inconsistent interpretations that might stray from the Constitution’s original meaning. • In Heller, an adaptive approach might have resulted in a more flexible interpretation of the Second Amendment, potentially expanding or restricting gun rights based on current societal needs, but possibly leading to judicial overreach. 18. Describe the process for amending the Constitution. List the difficulties encountered at each step, and evaluate their advantages and disadvantages. Answer: Steps for Amending the Constitution: 1. Proposal: • Method: An amendment can be proposed either by a two-thirds majority in both houses of Congress or by a constitutional convention called for by two-thirds of state legislatures. • Difficulties: Achieving a two-thirds majority in Congress is challenging, reflecting broad consensus. A constitutional convention is rare and could lead to unpredictable changes. 2. Ratification: • Method: An amendment must be ratified by three-fourths (38 out of 50) of state legislatures or by conventions in three-fourths of the states. • Difficulties: Securing ratification by such a large majority is difficult and requires broad agreement among diverse states. Ratification conventions can be contentious and unpredictable. Evaluation: • Advantages: • Rigorous Process: Ensures that only amendments with substantial support are adopted, maintaining constitutional stability and avoiding frequent, minor changes. • Broad Consensus: Requires broad and sustained agreement from both federal and state levels, which ensures that changes reflect widespread support. • Disadvantages: • Difficulty of Change: The rigorous process makes it challenging to adapt the Constitution to modern needs or correct issues, potentially leading to outdated provisions. • Political Gridlock: The high thresholds for proposal and ratification can result in gridlock, where needed reforms may be blocked due to partisan or regional disagreements. Test Bank for Government by the People David B. Magleby, Paul C. Light, Christine L. Nemacheck 9780205073245, 9780134732831
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