Purposes of government
Definition
The purposes of government, as outlined in the Preamble to the U.S. Constitution, include establishing justice, ensuring domestic tranquility, providing for the common defense, promoting the general welfare, and securing the blessings of liberty. These goals reflect social contract theory.
Examples
- Police and courts establish justice by enforcing laws and resolving disputes
- The military provides for the common defense against foreign threats
- Social Security and public education promote the general welfare of citizens
Key Fact
The Preamble lists six purposes: form a more perfect union, establish justice, ensure domestic tranquility, provide common defense, promote general welfare, secure liberty.
Study This Concept
Practice purposes of government with free review games in these units: