Social Studies Praxis Practice Test

What is an underlying principle of democracy that is highlighted by the United States Constitution?

1. Government by a single ruler

2. Protection of individual freedoms

3. Strict adherence to tradition

4. Centralized control of the economy

The correct answer is: Protection of individual freedoms

The principle highlighted by the United States Constitution that emphasizes democracy is the protection of individual freedoms. This is evident in the Bill of Rights, which comprises the first ten amendments to the Constitution, designed explicitly to safeguard the rights of individuals against potential governmental overreach. These amendments guarantee various liberties, such as freedom of speech, religion, and assembly, ensuring that individuals can express themselves and participate in the democratic process without fear of repression. The essence of democracy lies in the ability of individuals to have a say in governance and to have their rights respected and protected. By enshrining these rights, the Constitution establishes a framework that promotes personal freedoms as a foundation for a functioning democracy, allowing citizens to engage in civil discourse and governmental decision-making. The other choices emphasize aspects inconsistent with democratic values. For instance, government by a single ruler contradicts the principle of collective decision-making that underpins democratic governance. Likewise, strict adherence to tradition can undermine progress and the evolving nature of rights and liberties within society. Centralized control of the economy can inhibit individual freedoms, as it tends to concentrate power in the hands of the state, which can conflict with the democratic ideal of empowering individuals.