College Now: Intro to Political Science

A privileged, educated, and powerful upper class that rules society. Interpreted by Plato and Aristotle as government by the best.

Edmund Burke’s view of the British constitutions a monarchy directed by laws, balanced by an aristocracy, and controlled by the democracy.

Founding document or documents that spell out the structure and rules of a political system and reflect the political culture.

Rule by the people, usually via elected representatives, under a constitution that provides for the protection of basic rights and majority rule. Interpreted by Plato and Aristotle as government by the poor.

Law revealed by God and found in scripture that helps humans understand natural law while guiding them toward their supernatural end.

The reason of God (“God’s grand design”) by which all things are governed.

The constant will of the sovereign people; the public good or public interest that is always right.

Application, in specific circumstances, of natural law in our earthly affairs.

Rule established by authority or custom; according to Thomas Aquinas, “an ordinance of reason for the common good, promulgated by him who has the care of the community.

Economy without government intervention; compatible with liberty, the satisfaction of human needs, and the advancement of individual and social happiness.

That part of the eternal law known through reason, such as the ability to discern good from evil.

Generally understood as govern­ment by the few, especially for corrupt and selfish purposes. According to Plato, it meant government by the rich and money loving.

Greek city-state.

Constitutional government—a mixture of democracy and oligarchy. Form of government believed by Aristotle to provide the best practicable good life.

Agreement in which a number of people unite for a common purpose.

Government by people of honor and ambition.

lawless rule by one leader.

Creed that accepts utility and the search for happiness as its foundation.