7 Principles of Government

1.Popular Sovereignty

Authority for government flows from the people- they rule through their representatives.

2.Republicanism

• Voters hold the power to elect representatives to exercise power for them.

3.Limited Government

• Powers of government are restricted by the Constitution.

4.Federalism

• Power is divided between the national and state governments, limiting central power.

5.Separation of powers

• Each branch of government has its own responsibilities and limitations.

6.Checks and balances

• Each of the three branches of government exercises some control over the others, sharing power among them.

7.Individual rights

• Unalienable rights guaranteed to all citizens.