Political Philosophy Glossary

The political theory that all forms of involuntary government are unnecessary and harmful, advocating a society based on voluntary cooperation.

The right to command and the corresponding duty to obey, distinguished from mere power by its claim to moral legitimacy.

The capacity of individuals or peoples to govern themselves according to their own rational principles and values.

The qualities of character and habits necessary for citizens to sustain a self-governing political community.

Conditions of social life that enable all members of a community to flourish, as distinct from the aggregate of private interests.

The voluntary agreement of individuals to be governed, often cited as the basis of political legitimacy in liberal theory.

The principle that government authority is defined and limited by a foundational set of laws or a constitution.

A system of government in which power is vested in the people, exercised directly or through elected representatives.

A form of government in which a single entity rules with absolute power, unchecked by law or institutional constraints.

The doctrine that all people are fundamentally equal and should have equal political, social, and economic rights and opportunities.

A system of governance in which power is divided between a central authority and constituent political units such as states or provinces.

The dominance of one group or state over others, often maintained through cultural and ideological influence rather than direct force.

A coherent system of ideas and beliefs about politics, economics, and society that shapes political action and institutional design.

The policy or practice of extending power and dominion over other peoples or territories, typically through colonization or military force.

A political tradition emphasizing individual rights, limited government, rule of law, and equality before the law.

A system in which power and resources are allocated based on individual ability and achievement rather than inherited status or wealth.

A moral or legal duty, particularly the duty citizens owe to the state and to each other under a political order.

The view that multiple groups, interests, and values legitimately coexist within a political community and should all have a voice.

The moral duty to obey the laws and support the institutions of one's political community, debated in terms of consent, fairness, and gratitude.

The principle that all persons and institutions, including the government itself, are accountable to laws that are publicly promulgated, equally enforced, and independently adjudicated.

The fair distribution of wealth, opportunities, and privileges within a society, often focusing on correcting systemic inequalities.

The practice of allowing beliefs or practices one disapproves of, considered a foundational liberal virtue for diverse societies.

A political system in which the state holds total authority over society and seeks to control all aspects of public and private life.

The danger that democratic majorities may oppress minorities by imposing their will without adequate protection for individual or minority rights.

A system in which the government assumes primary responsibility for the welfare of its citizens through programs such as healthcare, education, and social security.