AP Government Introduction

Instructor Introduction

• Mr. Lamanna, also known as Mila Money.
• Access to resources through subscription, notes, and reviews.

Purpose of Government

• Preamble to the Constitution: Lists the core purposes of government:
  • Establish justice
  • Ensure domestic tranquility
  • Provide for the common defense
  • Promote the general welfare
  • Secure the blessings of liberty
• Key Goals: Justice, peace, and liberty.

Concept of State of Nature

• Complete freedom, but no protection of rights.
• Leads to formation of groups for safety and rule establishment.

Ideals of Democracy

• Natural Rights: Fundamental rights belonging to all humans, not dependent on governments.
• Social Contract: Governments established to protect rights; involves giving up some freedoms for social order.
  • Government power derives from consent of the governed (Popular Sovereignty).
  • Importance of a limited government.

Constitution and Government Structure

• Federal government powers limited by the Constitution.
• Principles preserving limited government:
  • Separation of Powers: 3 branches, each with independent powers.
  • Checks and Balances: Branches can limit and influence each other.
  • Federalism: Divides power among federal, state, and local governments.
  • Republican Form of Government: Representative democracy where people vote for representatives.

Additional Democratic Ideals

• Rule of Law: Equality before law; no one is above the law.
• Majority Rule with Minority Rights: Ensure majority decisions do not oppress minorities.
  • Tyranny of the Majority: Prevent oppression by the majority.
• Liberal Democracy: Focus on liberty and freedom with democratic voting for policymakers.

Course Support and Resources

• Comprehensive video coverage of the course material.
• Access to ultimate review packets with practice tests and study guides.