The United States of America

The country of concern in the book.

The Enlightenment

The period of eighteenth century thought that emphasized the power of reason and science in coming to understand and control the world. The book praises this period.

The Pre-Revolutionary Period

The periods of time preceding the founding of American discussed in chapters one and two of the book.

The Constitution

The political document that was ratified in 1789 and continues to govern the United States today.

The Executive Branch

The branch of government responsible for executing the law.

The Legislative Branch

The branch of government responsible for legislation.

The Judicial Branch

The branch of government responsible for interpreting the Constitution.

Campaigns and Elections

The American process of choosing new politicians and administrations.

The Media

That part of the public sphere responsible for reporting accurate information to the public.

Political Parties

Representatives of ideologies and groups...