Jeffersonian democracy
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A Jeffersonian democracy is a form of government named for American statesman Thomas Jefferson. It dominated American politics in the era of the First Party System after 1800. It is often contrasted with the characteristics of Jacksonian democracy, or Second Party System which dominated the next political era. In its core ideals it is characterized by the following key elements:
- Government is a necessary evil to be instituted for the common benefit, protection, and security of the people, nation or community.
- Representative democracy (i.e. "democratic republicanism") is the best form of government and representative government is the best form of democracy to prevent the tyranny by the majority.
- Checks and balances between the separate branches of government are the best way to prevent political tyranny by the executive or the representatives in a legislature.
- A wall of separation between church and state is the best method to keep religion free from government intervention.
- The government must protect the freedoms of individuals.
- Freedom of speech and the press is the best method to prevent the tyranny of the people by their own government.
- Whenever any government shall be found inadequate or contrary to the purposes of producing the greatest degree of happiness and safety or of effectually securing against the danger of maladministration, a majority of the community has the indefeasible right to reform, alter or abolish it, in such manner as shall be judged most conducive to the public well-being.
See also
- First Party System
- Second Party System
- Jacksonian democracy
- American election campaigns in the 19th Century
- Jeffersonian political philosophy
- Jeffersonian architecture
References
- Richard Hoftsftater, The Idea of a Party System: The Rise of Legitimate Opposition in the United States, 1780-1840 (1975)
- Wiltse, Charles Maurice. The Jeffersonian Tradition in American Democracy (1935)
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