Aim: How do we explore the basic concepts of Democracy?

James Bryce once said “No government demands so much from the citizen as Democracy and none gives so much back.”What does this quote mean?Do you agree with this sentiment?

Objectives:

• Understand the foundations of democracy.• Discuss the significance of Baker v. Carr.

Foundations

1. Worth of the Individual– Serve the many as individuals who make up a

society

2. Equality of All Persons - Equality of opportunity, equality before the

law3. Majority Rule, Minority RIghts

Foundations• Necessity of Compromise• If the two chefs represent law makers, what

does the stew represent?

Foundations

Individual FreedomOliver Wendall Holme’s statement :

“The right to swing my fist ends where the other man’s nose begins.”

What is the significance of this quote with regard to individual freedom?

Baker v. Carr

• Decision: • The Supreme Court held that the federal courts do

have jurisdiction and authority to review the constitutionality of a State’s electoral apportionment. The voters are entitled to a trial on their allegation that the Tennessee apportionment violated the United States Constitution by diluting their votes and denying them equal protection of the law. The federal Courts may impose remedies if the voters show that their votes do not count for substantially the same amount as votes of others in the State.

Baker v. Carr

• How does this case uphold the principles of Democracy?