Final answer:
The democratic ideals in the United States encompass liberty and equality, established through a constitution-based federal republic with elected representatives. This system is rooted in historical examples of democracy and guided by checks and balances among the branches of government. Ideological beliefs, such as democratic socialism, have continuously shaped the nation's approach to political and personal rights.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the United States, the core democratic ideals include liberty and equality, which uphold the belief that a balanced society can maintain order while preserving individual freedoms. The United States is characterized as a constitution-based federal republic, where citizens elect representatives to make policy decisions on their behalf, known as a representative democracy. This system contrasts with a “pure” democracy, where all citizens would vote directly on all legislation. American democratic practice roots back to ancient civilizations such as Classical Greece and the Roman Republic, with influences from the Age of Enlightenment and the experiences under the British Empire. The democratic ideals uphold the right of citizens to organize political parties, hold elections, have freedom of speech, press, and assembly, and prevent unlawful imprisonment.
The United States government is designed with checks and balances, through the three branches: the executive, judicial, and legislative, each restricting the others to ensure no single branch becomes too powerful. Ideologies, such as democratic socialism discussed during Bernie Sanders' presidential campaign, can influence the actual policies, reflecting how political beliefs shape society's rights and the responsibilities of government. Notably, the country was founded on the principles outlined by Alexis de Tocqueville in “Democracy in America,” referring to the United States as “The Great Experiment” due to its innovative approach to government and democracy.