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According to Justice William Brennan (Source 1), which of these is a fundamental principle of American democracy? A. Federalism. B. Mercantilism. C. Rights of the state over the individual. D. Economic equality.

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Final answer:

A fundamental principle of American democracy, as per Justice William Brennan, includes the balance between government authority and individual freedom, with a focus on individual rights and equal protection under the law.

Step-by-step explanation:

According to Justice William Brennan, a fundamental principle of American democracy is the balance between limited government and the fundamental worth of each individual. This concept is reflected in the protections afforded by the Bill of Rights and the emphasis on individual liberties as seen in amendments such as the Fourteenth Amendment, which guarantee equal protection under the law for all citizens regardless of race or color.

Additionally, the principles of federalism and separation of powers are essential to American democracy, ensuring that governmental power is not centralized but rather divided among different branches and levels, providing a system of checks and balances.

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