3.2.1.1 The constitutional framework of US government

Representative government not democracy
- Elected representatives vs direct democracy
- Layers of indirection to select officials (Senate, Electoral College -> president)
- Consent and order
Skeptical of mass democracy
- Rigged
- Not thinking/not knowing what’s best for them
- People can make stupid decisions
Size and diversity of USA means they require:
- A federal system
- A rule book (constitution)
  - Outlines the relationship between the three branches of government
  - Legislative branch (Congress)
  - Executive branch
  - Judicial branch
- Constitution outline the following within it:
  - Limits upon power
  - How power is exercised
  - Where power is located
Principles of the US Constitution
- Separation of powers
- Checks and balances
Federal: divides power between a national government and state government