Questions and Answers
Which of the following are characteristics of state?
What theory holds that the first governments formed as a result of people agreeing among themselves to submit to the authority of state?
Social contract theory
The supreme power of a state to act within its territory and have absolute authority over its internal and external affairs is called?
Sovereignty
Which of the following is another name for the term general welfare?
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Which principle of American democracy is at work when two opposing groups relax some of their demands in an attempt to reach an agreement?
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Which of the following is a basic function of government?
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Which system of government is represented by the illustration in the center of the graphic?
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What is the 'condition' that Hobbes is talking about?
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What is the governmental system in which states keep full control over their territories and people?
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What is the process by which a government makes and carries out decisions?
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What is the ability of people to think and act as they choose?
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What is the form of democracy that protects the rights of the minority?
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What is the economic system in which people are free to engage in economic activity with minimal government interference?
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What are rights that all people possess by virtue of being humans?
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What theory in which a ruler answers only to God?
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What is the system of government headed by one person, such as a king or queen?
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What is the system in which sovereignty rests in a single, national government?
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What is the system of government led by a prime minister?
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A monarchy is a system of government headed by one person whose position is inherited and whose power is supreme.
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Competition is a central feature of free enterprise.
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In a parliamentary system, a prime minister must resign immediately if he or she loses the support of the majority party in parliament.
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A dictatorship that is led by a small group of people is called a republic.
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A key principle of American democracy is that the majority rules, but the rights of the political ______ are protected.
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According to philosopher ______, any violation of the people's natural rights by government provided grounds for rebellion.
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The five key principles of American democracy are: ______, majority rule, minority rights; ______; and citizen participation.
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Study Notes
Characteristics of Government
- A state is defined by its population and sovereignty.
- Sovereignty refers to the supreme power to act within a territory and authority over internal and external affairs.
Government Theories
- Social contract theory posits that governments formed when individuals collectively agree to submit to a governing authority.
- John Locke theorized that violations of natural rights by government justify rebellion.
Principles of Democracy
- Compromise is essential in American democracy, allowing opposing groups to soften their demands for agreement.
- Liberal democracy is a form of governance that safeguards minority rights while supporting majority rule.
Government Functions and Systems
- A basic function of government is ensuring national security.
- Various systems of government include:
- Federal: authority is divided between national and state governments.
- Confederal: states retain full control over their territories and people.
- Unitary: sovereignty resides in a single national government.
- Parliamentary: led by a prime minister who must maintain majority support.
Economic Systems
- Free enterprise allows individuals to engage in economic activities with minimal government interference, with competition as a pivotal characteristic.
Rights and Governance
- Natural rights are fundamental rights individuals possess inherently as human beings.
- The divine right of kings theory supports the notion that rulers derive authority solely from God.
- Monarchy is characterized by a singular leader, typically inherited, possessing supreme power.
Political Concepts
- Politics encompasses the processes of decision-making within government.
- Liberty signifies the ability of individuals to think and act freely.
- Citizens play a crucial role in governance through participation, highlighting the significance of civic engagement.
Additional Insights
- In a parliamentary system, the prime minister's position is precarious, requiring majority party support to remain in office.
- The principle of majority rule in democracy is balanced by the protection of minority rights, ensuring inclusivity in governance.
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Description
Test your knowledge on the Foundations of Government through this chapter test. The quiz covers essential concepts such as state characteristics and government theories, including social contract theory. Perfect for reviewing key terms and definitions.
