Chapter 1: Dilemmas of Democracy

A political entity’s externally recognized right to exercise final authority over its affairs.

The legitimate use of force to control human behavior; also, the organization or agency authorized to exercise that force.

The increasing interdepen- dence of citizens and nations across the world

Established ways of social behavior. Maintaining order is the oldest purpose of government.

A political system in which, in theory, ownership of all land and productive facilities is in the hands of the people and all goods are equally shared. The production and distribution of goods are controlled by an authoritarian government.

Benefits and services, such as parks and sanitation, that benefit all citizens but are not likely to be produced voluntarily by individuals.

An absence of constraints on behavior, as in freedom of speech or freedom of religion.

Immunity, as in freedom from want.

The authority of government to maintain order and safe- guard citizens’ safety, health, welfare, and morals.

Equality in political decision making: one vote per person, with all votes counted equally.

Equality in wealth, education, and status.

The idea that each person is guaranteed the same chance to succeed in life

The concept that society must ensure that people are equal, and governments must design policies to redistribute wealth and status to achieve economic and social equality.

The two major dilemmas facing American government in the early years of the twenty-first century stem from the oldest and the newest objectives of government: maintaining order and promoting equality. The clash between freedom and order forms the original dilemma of government; the clash between freedom and equality forms the modern dilemma of government.

The benefits of government to which every citizen is entitled.

A consistent set of values and beliefs about the proper purpose and scope of government.

A political philosophy that advocates unlimited power for the government to enable it to control all sectors of society.

A form of rule in which the central government plays a strong role in regulating existing private industry and directing the economy, although it does allow some private ownership of productive capacity.

A socialist form of govern- ment that guarantees civil liberties such as freedom of speech and religion. Citizens determine the extent of gov- ernment activity through free elections and competitive political parties.

The system of government that favors free enterprise (privately owned businesses operating without government regulation).

A political ideology that is opposed to all government action except as necessary to protect life and property.

An economic doctrine that opposes any form of government intervention in business. “ hands off approach”

A political philosophy that opposes government in any form.

Those who are willing to use government to promote equality but not order.