Final answer:
Civil rights have affected democratic government in the US by expanding protected rights for marginalized groups, but conflicts can arise when balancing individual rights with societal needs.
Step-by-step explanation:
Civil rights have had a significant impact on democratic government and the scope of government in the United States. The struggle for civil rights has led to the expansion of protected rights and equal treatment for previously marginalized groups.
This has often required the government to take action to enforce and protect civil rights, such as ensuring voting rights and ending segregation.
However, there can be conflicts between civil rights and democracy. Balancing the rights of individuals and the needs and interests of society as a whole can be challenging.
For example, some argue that protecting civil rights can limit the government's ability to make decisions in the best interest of the majority. Additionally, the enforcement of civil rights can sometimes be controversial and subject to political debate.