Key Principles of American Democracy and Social Contract Theory
The basic notions of American democracy emphasize fundamental worth, equality, majority rule with minority rights, compromise, and individual freedom. These principles can be upheld through a social contract, which may require individuals to fulfill obligations for the welfare of society. While equality of opportunity is valued, equality in wealth distribution is not emphasized. The will of the majority guides public policy, but must also respect minority rights. Compromise plays a crucial role in balancing competing views and interests, prioritizing individual freedom within democratic values. Absolute freedom is not possible in a democracy as it must respect the freedoms of others. The free enterprise system symbolizes the American economy.
Download Presentation
Please find below an Image/Link to download the presentation.
The content on the website is provided AS IS for your information and personal use only. It may not be sold, licensed, or shared on other websites without obtaining consent from the author. Download presentation by click this link. If you encounter any issues during the download, it is possible that the publisher has removed the file from their server.
E N D
Presentation Transcript
Basic notions of American Democracy 1. A recognition of the fundamental worth & dignity of every person 2. A respect for the equality of all persons 3. A faith in the majority rule and an insistence upon minority rights 4. An acceptance of the necessity of compromise 5. An insistence upon the widest possible degree of individual freedom Is it possible to meet all of these notions under a social contract?
Each individual is important At certain times, the welfare of the majority in society more important than the few or an individual People may be forced to do things that they do not want to- Social Contract Theory Pay taxes Register for draft Obey traffic laws
All people are equal Does not insist on equality of conditions of all people Not have right to equal distribution of health Not born under equal conditions Insists on equality of opportunity & equal before the law Can equality exists if people are not granted the same wealth distributions? Why or why not? Are people all equal in the United States?
The will of the majority of the people dictates public policy Majority may not arrive at best decision, but most satisfactory decision Majority must always recognize the right of any minority & welcome suggestions What happens when the majority makes a mistake?
Compromise- process of blending & adjusting competing views & interests Important because democracy: Places individual 1st All individuals are = Many public questions have various sides & perspectives
Is there absolute freedom in a democracy? NO!- Each person is free as far as the freedom of EVERYONE will allow Cannot impose on another person s freedom The right to swing my fist ends where another man s nose begins. Justice Oliver Wendell Holmes The rights of every man are diminished when the rights of one man are threatened. - President JFK
Free Enterprise System is the American economic system Based on 4 factors 1. Private ownership 2. Individual initiative 3. Profit 4. Competition How does this economic system reflect the principles of democracy?
Mixed economy- an economy in which private enterprise exists in combination with a considerable amount of government regulation and promotion. Government twofold activities 1. Protects public- regulating economic activities-antitrust laws, food & drug laws, anti-pollution standards, building codes 2. Promotes private enterprise- granting $ transport systems, scientific research, building roads, public schools, postal service, national currency How much should government participate?
