U.S. Citizenship Civics TestSystem of GovernmentMedium
An applicant is asked to explain the concept of 'limited government' in the U.S. system. Which of the following statements best describes this principle?
- AThe government primarily focuses on a limited number of policy areas.
- BThe government has absolute and unrestricted power over its citizens.
- COnly a small number of people are allowed to participate in government.
- DThe government's power is restricted by specific laws and a constitution.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. The government's power is restricted by specific laws and a constitution.
Limited government is a foundational principle of the U.S. Constitution, stating that the government's power is not absolute and is restricted by the rule of law and the Constitution itself. This protects individual liberties and prevents tyranny.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. While governments may prioritize certain areas, 'limited government' refers to the extent of its power, not its policy focus.
- B. This describes an authoritarian or totalitarian government, the opposite of limited government.
- C. This describes an oligarchy or restricted suffrage, not the principle of limited government.
Limited Government
A principle of American democracy where the government's power is restricted by the rule of law and the U.S. Constitution, ensuring that it cannot infringe on individual liberties.
- Government power is not absolute.
- Bound by laws and the Constitution.
- Protects individual rights.
Memory trick: Limited government: 'Limits on power, prevents sour hour!'