Key Concepts of American Democracy

POL 1311—Final Exam Study Guide C 1. “Spirit of religion” and “spirit of liberty”:

Puritans in America The Puritans combined strong religious morals with a commitment to self-government.

This created a culture that valued both virtue and freedom. 2. What Tocqueville

meant by “democracy.” He meant social equality, where no one is born above anyone

else. Democracy is a whole social condition, not just voting. 3.

Tyranny of the majority: its different forms The majority can silence minority opinions through

social pressure. It can also pass laws that harm minority rights simply because it holds the most

votes. 4. Central administration vs. central government A central government