founder's of US had a positive view of individuals
no corruption or threats or other obstacles that would prevent people from voting
everyone must obey the law
no one, including officials, is above the law
officials are chosen in periodic elections
examples include: running for election, voting in elections, staying informed on issues
examples include: peacefully protesting, joining a political party, writing a letter to a congressman
key role of citizens in democracy
US was founded on the strength of human nature in individuals, including self- reliance, ability to achieve and to reason and self-determination
opposing groups give up some of their demands to reach an agreement
values that reflect and respect life and dignity
create safeguards that help deter corruption of power
keeps the political process going
government is structured to prevent any one branch from becoming too powerful
examples include: freedom of expression, association, assembly and equality
