Government Chapter 1: Principles of Government

Principles of Government

• Legislative Power: Authority to create laws that govern society.
• Executive Power: Responsibility for enforcing laws and administering public policies.
• Judicial Power: Ability to interpret laws and ensure justice within the legal framework.

Definitions of Government Types

• Government: Institution through which societies make and enforce public policies, essential for order and functioning.
• Dictatorship: Form of governance where power is concentrated in the hands of a single individual or a small group.
• Democracy: System where the authority rests with the people, allowing for collective decision-making.

State Characteristics

• State: Defined territory with a population and a government capable of making and enforcing laws independently.
• Sovereignty: Condition of having supreme power and authority within territorial boundaries.

Government Structures

• Autocracy: Governance where a single person possesses complete political control.
• Oligarchy: Power is held by a small group, often self-appointed, ruling over the state.
• Unitary Government: Centralized governance where all powers are held by a single national authority.
• Federal Government: Divides power between a central authority and various local governments.
• Confederation: Alliance of independent states that collaborate for common purposes.

Government Types by Relationship

• Presidential Government: Distinct separation between executive and legislative branches.
• Parliamentary Government: Executive branch is part of the legislature, subject to its oversight.

Democratic Principles

• Majority Rule: Governance principle where the majority's decision dictates government actions.

Citizenry and Economic Systems

• Citizen: Individual with specific rights and responsibilities under a state's governance.
• Free Enterprise System: Economic model based on private ownership and competitive markets, determining economic success.

Political Processes and Changes

• Compromise: Method of reconciling differing views to reach collective decisions.
• Democratization: Transition from authoritarian rule to democratic governance.

Human Rights and Global Challenges

• Genocide: Intentional extermination of specific cultural, racial, or national groups.
• Failed States: Governments lacking control over their territory, facing critical issues in security, economy, and health.
• Globalization: Increasing economic interdependence among nations, affecting trade and policy.
• Protectionism: Economic policy focused on restricting imports to shield domestic sectors from competition.
• Trade Embargo: Official ban on trade with specific nations, often for political reasons.

This quiz covers key concepts from Chapter 1 of the Government textbook, focusing on the principles of government. You will learn about various powers such as legislative, executive, and judicial, as well as the definition of government itself. Use these flashcards to enhance your understanding of governmental structures and functions.