Learning Objectives

After reading this chapter students should be able to:

Explain the importance of self-government and limited government to Americans.

Compare the concepts of "separation of power" and "separated institutions sharing power" as limits on concentration of power.

Describe the significance of the Declaration of Independence.

Explain the major differences between the Virginia and New Jersey plans.

Differentiate between the Federalist and Antifederalist positions on ratification of the Constitution.

Define the purpose for a constitution.

Describe the checks and balances on the powers of the three branches of American government.

Explain the significance of the Marbury v. Madison law case and the concept of judicial review.

Discuss the difference between the use of the terms "republic" and "democracy" by the Framers of the U.S. Constitution.

Summarize the arguments for and against direct democratic government, as compared to an indirect, representative government.

Contrast between presidential and parliamentary systems of government.

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