MATSEC IM Systems of Knowledge key terms

The principle that everyone, including the government, is subject to the law, which is applied equally and fairly. It prevents arbitrary use of power and ensures predictability and justice in society.

The fundamental set of principles and rules by which a state is governed. It establishes the structure of government, limits its powers, and protects citizens' rights. Malta's Constitution is the supreme law.

The division of government responsibilities into distinct branches-legislative, executive, and judicial-to prevent any one branch from exercising too much power. Each branch checks the others.

A system of government in which power is vested in the people, who rule either directly or through freely elected representatives. It involves free and fair elections, political pluralism, and protection of minority rights.

The legal status of being a member of a state, which carries rights, duties, and responsibilities. It involves participation in public life and allegiance to the state.

The basic rights and freedoms that belong to every person from birth, regardless of nationality, sex, ethnicity, religion, or any other status. They include rights to life, liberty, and free expression.

A milestone document adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in 1948 that sets out fundamental human rights to be universally protected. It is not legally binding but has inspired many treaties and constitutions.

The state of being equal in status, rights, and opportunities. In a social justice context, it means ensuring that all individuals have the same access to resources and are treated without discrimination.

The fair and equitable distribution of resources, opportunities, and privileges within a society. It addresses issues like poverty, inequality, and discrimination to create a more just society.

The unjust or prejudicial treatment of different categories of people, especially on the grounds of race, age, sex, religion, or disability. It involves actions that deny equal treatment.

The emotional and intellectual response to beauty or art, often involving a deep appreciation of form, expression, and meaning. It can occur when engaging with nature, art, or design.

The process of conveying ideas, emotions, or visions through various art forms such as visual arts, music, literature, and performance. It is a fundamental aspect of human culture and communication.

The ability to generate original and valuable ideas or works. It involves imagination, innovation, and the synthesis of existing concepts in new ways, often leading to artistic or scientific breakthroughs.

A systematic process of inquiry involving observation, hypothesis formulation, experimentation, data analysis, and conclusion. It is used to acquire reliable knowledge about the natural world.

A testable prediction or explanation for a phenomenon, often formulated as a statement that can be supported or refuted through experimentation or observation. It guides scientific investigation.

Information acquired by observation or experimentation, rather than by logical argument or intuition alone. In science, it is the basis for validating or rejecting hypotheses.

The application of scientific knowledge for practical purposes, especially in industry. It encompasses tools, machines, systems, and methods that solve problems or enhance human capabilities.

The gap between those who have access to modern information and communication technologies and those who do not. It can relate to economic, geographic, or social factors and affects opportunities.

Development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. It balances economic growth, social inclusion, and environmental protection.

The capacity to maintain or endure ecological, social, and economic systems over the long term. It involves using resources responsibly so they remain available for future generations.

Long-term shifts in temperatures and weather patterns, primarily caused by human activities, especially the burning of fossil fuels. It leads to rising sea levels, extreme weather, and ecosystem disruption.

The ability to comprehend and respect different cultures, including their values, beliefs, and practices. It involves empathy, open-mindedness, and effective communication across cultural boundaries.

The sense of belonging to the Maltese nation, shaped by shared history, language, traditions, and values. It encompasses cultural heritage and a distinct Mediterranean character.

The existence of a variety of cultural or ethnic groups within a society. It recognizes and values differences in language, religion, customs, and traditions as a source of enrichment.

The willingness to accept and respect beliefs, practices, or opinions that differ from one's own. It is essential for peaceful coexistence and social harmony in diverse societies.

The objective analysis and evaluation of an issue in order to form a judgment. It involves questioning assumptions, identifying biases, and considering multiple perspectives before drawing conclusions.

A set of reasons or evidence presented to support a conclusion. In critical thinking, an argument consists of premises that logically lead to a claim, and its validity can be assessed.

An error in reasoning that undermines the logic of an argument. Common fallacies include ad hominem attacks, straw man arguments, and false dilemmas, which can mislead or deceive.

A systematic investigation into a subject to discover or revise facts, theories, or applications. It involves collecting, analyzing, and interpreting data to answer questions or solve problems.

An original document or firsthand account that provides direct evidence about a topic, such as diaries, interviews, or original research data. It is considered authoritative.

A document or account that interprets or analyzes primary sources, such as textbooks, reviews, or articles. It provides commentary and context but is one step removed from the original event.

The ability to effectively communicate information to an audience through verbal and non-verbal means. It includes structuring content, using visual aids, and engaging listeners with clarity and confidence.

The process of exchanging information, ideas, or feelings through speech, writing, signals, or behavior. Effective communication requires clarity, listening, and feedback.

The practice of taking someone else's work or ideas and passing them off as one's own without proper acknowledgment. It is a serious academic offense and a breach of ethics.