Unit 2 Lsn Government Quiz: Principles Of US Democracy
This quiz will help you review Unit 2 in your LSN Government class.
Questions and Answers
- 1.
Which of these constitutional principles is demonstrated when the Supreme Court declares a law unconstitutional?
- A.
Checks and Balances
- B.
Popular Sovereignty
- C.
Due Process
- D.
Federalism
Correct Answer
A. Checks and BalancesExplanation
When the Supreme Court declares a law unconstitutional, it demonstrates the principle of Checks and Balances. This principle refers to the division of powers among the three branches of government (executive, legislative, and judicial) to prevent any one branch from becoming too powerful. In this case, the Supreme Court acts as a check on the legislative branch by reviewing and potentially overturning laws that it deems to be in violation of the Constitution. This ensures that no single branch can exert excessive control and helps maintain a system of separation of powers.Rate this question:
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- 2.
"The purse and the sword must not be in the same hands" Based on this quote, which of the following principles is expressed above?
- A.
Judicial review
- B.
Rule of law
- C.
Separation of powers
- D.
Limited government
Correct Answer
C. Separation of powersExplanation
The quote "The purse and the sword must not be in the same hands" expresses the principle of separation of powers. This principle advocates for the division of governmental powers among different branches, such as the executive, legislative, and judicial branches. It emphasizes the importance of preventing any one branch from acquiring too much power and becoming tyrannical. By keeping the power to control finances (purse) and the power to enforce laws (sword) separate, this principle ensures a system of checks and balances and promotes accountability within the government.Rate this question:
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- 3.
Read the following quote: "...in all that people can individually do for themselves, the government ought (should) not interfere." Which of the following constitutional principles best applies to this quote?
- A.
Checks and balances
- B.
Due process of law
- C.
Separation of powers
- D.
Limited government
Correct Answer
D. Limited governmentExplanation
The quote suggests that the government should not interfere in the actions and decisions that individuals can make for themselves. This aligns with the principle of limited government, which advocates for a government that has restricted powers and does not overreach into the personal lives and choices of its citizens. Limited government promotes individual freedom and autonomy, allowing individuals to make their own decisions without unnecessary government interference.Rate this question:
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- 4.
The process of amending the constitution is an example of federalism because it requires
- A.
Approval of 2/3 of the Supreme Court
- B.
Unanimous approval of both the president and Congress
- C.
Unanimous approval of both state and local legislatures
- D.
Approval of 2/3 of Congress and 3/4 of the states
Correct Answer
D. Approval of 2/3 of Congress and 3/4 of the statesExplanation
The process of amending the constitution is an example of federalism because it requires approval from both the national and state levels of government. The requirement of 2/3 approval from Congress represents the national level, while the requirement of 3/4 approval from the states represents the state level. This demonstrates the division of power between the federal government and the states, which is a key principle of federalism.Rate this question:
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- 5.
Which of these principles of government was demonstrated when the US Supreme Court declared that schools cannot segregate (separate) schools based upon race?
- A.
Limited government
- B.
Popular sovereignty
- C.
Rule of law
- D.
Judicial review
Correct Answer
D. Judicial reviewExplanation
Judicial review refers to the power of the courts to review and invalidate actions or laws that are deemed unconstitutional. In this case, the US Supreme Court exercised its power of judicial review to declare that segregating schools based on race is unconstitutional. This decision demonstrated the principle of judicial review as the Supreme Court reviewed the actions of the schools and determined that they violated the Constitution.Rate this question:
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- 6.
The "elastic clause" gives Congress the power to act in areas not specifically enumerated in the Constitution. Congress is exercising its power under the "elastic clause" when it ________.
- A.
Declares war on a foreign country
- B.
Establishes a post office in a new community
- C.
Authorizes the testing of nuclear missiles
- D.
Changes the tax system
Correct Answer
C. Authorizes the testing of nuclear missilesExplanation
The correct answer is "authorizes the testing of nuclear missiles" because this action falls under the category of Congress acting in an area not specifically mentioned in the Constitution. The power to authorize the testing of nuclear missiles is not explicitly granted to Congress in the Constitution, but it can be justified under the elastic clause as a necessary and proper action for the defense and security of the nation.Rate this question:
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- 7.
Which of these is a characteristic of the United States system of government?
- A.
State governments may choose to ignore national laws
- B.
The executive and legislative powers of government are combined into one branch
- C.
The executive branch of government can choose to dissolve the judicial branch
- D.
The powers of government are divided between the national and state governments
Correct Answer
D. The powers of government are divided between the national and state governmentsExplanation
The characteristic of the United States system of government is that the powers of government are divided between the national and state governments. This means that certain powers and responsibilities are assigned to the federal government, while others are reserved for the individual states. This division of powers is known as federalism and is a fundamental principle of the U.S. Constitution. It allows for a balance of power between the national and state governments, ensuring that neither one becomes too dominant or infringes on the rights of the other.Rate this question:
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- 8.
The main power of the LEGISLATIVE branch is to make laws.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
The legislative branch is one of the three branches of government, responsible for making laws. It is composed of elected representatives who propose, debate, and vote on legislation. This branch has the power to introduce and pass bills, which then become laws once signed by the executive branch. Through this process, the legislative branch plays a crucial role in shaping and enacting policies that govern the country. Therefore, the statement "The main power of the LEGISLATIVE branch is to make laws" is true.Rate this question:
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- 9.
The main power of the EXECUTIVE branch is to enforce laws.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
The main power of the EXECUTIVE branch is to enforce laws. This is true because the executive branch, which is headed by the President in the United States, is responsible for executing and enforcing laws passed by the legislative branch. The President has the authority to enforce federal laws, appoint federal officials, negotiate treaties, and serve as the commander-in-chief of the armed forces. The executive branch plays a crucial role in ensuring that laws are implemented and enforced throughout the country.Rate this question:
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- 10.
The main power of the JUDICIAL branch is interpret laws.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
The main power of the JUDICIAL branch is to interpret laws. This means that the judicial branch, which includes courts and judges, has the authority to interpret the meaning and application of laws in order to resolve legal disputes. This power is crucial in ensuring that laws are applied fairly and consistently. By interpreting laws, the judicial branch plays a vital role in upholding the rule of law and protecting individual rights and liberties.Rate this question:
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- 11.
Which of the following statements best explains the meaning of the phrase “rule of law?”
- A.
Laws only apply to citizens
- B.
Powers are divided into three different branches of government
- C.
Powers are shared and divided between the national, and state governments
- D.
No matter how much money or fame someone posseses, all people must follow laws
Correct Answer
D. No matter how much money or fame someone posseses, all people must follow lawsExplanation
The phrase "rule of law" means that regardless of a person's wealth or fame, everyone is obligated to follow the laws. This principle ensures that no one is above the law and that all individuals are subject to the same legal framework. It promotes equality and fairness in society, preventing any special privileges based on one's status or wealth.Rate this question:
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Mar 21, 2023Quiz Edited by
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Jan 29, 2010Quiz Created by
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