Understanding U.S. Democracy:The Roots of Democracy 1. What is one of the fundamental principles of U.S. democracy? a. Absolute monarchy b. Rule of law c. Feudalism d. Centralized authority 2. Which document outlines the fundamental rights and freedoms in U.S. democracy? a. Declaration of Independence b. Articles of Confederation c. Bill of Rights d. Federalist Papers 3. How does the separation of powers function in U.S. democracy? a. It consolidates power in the executive branch b. It divides responsibilities among three branches of government. c. It limits the power of the judiciary d. It ensures political parties control all branches. 4. Which of the following best describes the role of civil society in U.S. democracy? a. Passing laws and regulations b. Advocating for democratic principles and citizen engagement c. Lobbying for corporate interests d. Controlling media narratives 5. What was the significance of Citizens United v. FEC in U.S democracy? a. It established term limits for elected officials. b. It allowed unlimited corporate spending in elections. c. It abolished campaign finance laws d. It limited the influence of foreign policies on elections 6. Which key influence on democracy is primarily concerned with voter behavior and public discourse? a. Media b. Religious interests c. Economic interests d. Foreign policies

1. **b. Rule of law:** U.S. democracy is fundamentally based on the principle that everyone, including the government, is subject to and accountable under the law.<br /><br />2. **c. Bill of Rights:** The Bill of Rights, the first ten amendments to the U.S. Constitution, specifically enumerates fundamental rights and freedoms such as freedom of speech, religion, and assembly. While the Declaration of Independence proclaims certain inalienable rights, the Bill of Rights legally protects them within the structure of the government.<br /><br />3. **b. It divides responsibilities among three branches of government:** The separation of powers divides governmental authority among the legislative, executive, and judicial branches, creating a system of checks and balances to prevent any one branch from becoming too powerful.<br /><br />4. **b. Advocating for democratic principles and citizen engagement:** Civil society organizations, including non-profits, advocacy groups, and community organizations, play a crucial role in promoting democratic values, encouraging citizen participation, and holding the government accountable.<br /><br />5. **b. It allowed unlimited corporate spending in elections:** The *Citizens United v. Federal Election Commission* Supreme Court decision in 2010 significantly altered campaign finance regulations by allowing corporations and unions to spend unlimited amounts of money on political advertising, equating such spending with protected free speech.<br /><br />6. **a. Media:** The media plays a powerful role in shaping public opinion, influencing voter behavior, and facilitating public discourse on important political issues. While religious, economic, and foreign policy interests can certainly influence democracy, the media's direct impact on voter behavior and public discourse is primary.<br />