Test – Political Principles of the Founders

Formulated from "A Guide for Learning and Teaching the Declaration of Independence and The U.S. Constitution," by Joseph Andrews

1.     Please define the following terms:

a.     Capitalism

b.    Laissez-Faire

c.     Supply-Side Economics

d.    Feed-back Theory

2.     What is the function and purpose of the Electoral College?

3.     Explain Madison’s expansion of Montesquieu’s ‘separation of powers.’

4.     What is the Theory of Factions?

5.     Write the Government Power Continuum and label.  Explain the reasoning of the Founders in placing America on this continuum.

6.     On what principles is the Free Market System of America based?

7.     What was the significance of Shay’s Rebellion and why was it so important that it be quelled? 

8.     Explain the Founders’ idea of a 3-dimensional government.  Use diagrams where appropriate.

9.     Briefly explain America’s form of government as it was founded.

10.                       How is American Federalism maintained?  How is it eroded?

11.                       What affect is achieved by government regulation of prices?

12.                       Explain the effect of implementing the Federal Reserve Bank.  Why did the Founders set it up differently?

13.                       Explain Toqueville’s amazement with American government.

14.                       Our government recently borrowed money in order to provide a ‘stimulus package’ to boost the economy.  What is your reaction to this?  According to “Steve” *, how is the economy boosted?

You may view the questions prior to taking the test and use it as a study guide.  The administration of the test is, however, closed book.  Give essay answers where appropriate.

*  "Steve" is my children's name for the above referenced book.