Overview of Parliament in Political Science

Study Notes

Overview of Parliament in Political Science

Definition of Parliament:
- A legislative body of government, typically composed of two houses (bicameral) or one house (unicameral).
Functions of Parliament:
- Legislation: Developing, debating, and passing laws.
- Representation: Representing the interests and views of the public.
- Oversight: Monitoring and scrutinizing the actions of the executive branch.
- Budget Approval: Authorizing government spending and taxation.
- Conflict Resolution: Addressing social and political disputes through deliberation.

Structure of Parliament

Bicameral vs. Unicameral:
- Bicameral: Two chambers (e.g., House of Commons and House of Lords in the UK).
- Unicameral: One chamber (e.g., National Assembly in Sweden).
Common Roles within Parliament:
- Members of Parliament (MPs): Elected representatives in the lower house.
- Senators: Members of the upper house (in bicameral systems).
- Speaker: Presiding officer responsible for maintaining order during debates.

Types of Parliaments

Parliamentary System:
- Executive derives its democratic legitimacy from, and is directly accountable to, the legislature (e.g., the UK, Canada).
Presidential System:
- A distinct separation of powers where the President is elected separately from the legislative branch (e.g., the USA).
Hybrid Systems:
- Features of both parliamentary and presidential systems, allowing for a dual executive structure (e.g., France).

Legislative Process

Stages of Legislation:
- Introduction: Proposal of a bill by MPs or government.
- Debate: Examination and discussion of the bill within committees and the larger assembly.
- Voting: Formal decision-making process where members vote on the bill.
- Approval: Finalization and enactment of a bill into law, often requiring the signature of an executive authority.

Parliament and the Executive

Prime Minister:
- Often the head of government in parliamentary systems, chosen from the majority party or coalition in parliament.
Cabinet:
- Collection of senior government officials, usually headed by the Prime Minister, responsible for specific areas of public policy.
Confidence and Accountability:
- The government must maintain the confidence of the Parliament to remain in power, allowing for votes of no confidence.

Importance of Parliament

Democratic Function:
- Vital for representing the electorate and ensuring accountability in governance.
Legislative Authority:
- Holds the power to create and amend laws, which is crucial for the operation of a state.
Societal Impact:
- Influences key issues such as healthcare, education, and national security through legislation and debate.

Challenges Facing Parliaments

Political Polarization:
- Increasing divisions between political parties hindering consensus and effective governance.
Public Disengagement:
- A growing disconnect between citizens and their representatives, impacting legitimacy and representation.
Transparency and Corruption:
- Issues of accountability that challenge public trust in parliamentary processes.

By understanding these key aspects of Parliament within political science, one gains valuable insight into the legislative process and its impact on society.

Definition and Functions

Parliament is a legislative body of government
Parliaments are typically bicameral (two houses) or unicameral (one house)
Key functions include:
- Legislation: Creating, debating, and passing laws
- Representation: Serving as a voice for the people
- Oversight: Monitoring the executive branch
- Budget Approval: Approving government spending
- Conflict Resolution: Addressing societal issues through discussion

Structure

Bicameral: Two chambers (e.g., UK House of Commons and House of Lords)
Unicameral: One chamber (e.g., Sweden's National Assembly)
Common Roles:
- MPs: Elected representatives in the lower house
- Senators: Members of the upper house (in bicameral systems)
- Speaker: The presiding officer who maintains order

Types of Parliaments

Parliamentary System:
- Executive power stems from the legislature (e.g., UK, Canada)
Presidential System:
- Executive power (President) is separate from the legislature (e.g. USA)
Hybrid Systems:
- Combine features of parliamentary and presidential systems (e.g. France)

Legislative Process

Stages of Legislation:
- Introduction: A bill is proposed by MPs or the government
- Debate: The bill is discussed in committees and the full assembly
- Voting: Members vote on the bill
- Approval: The bill is finalized and becomes law

Parliament and the Executive

Prime Minister:
- Head of government in parliamentary systems, chosen from the majority party
Cabinet:
- Senior government officials led by the Prime Minister, responsible for specific policies
Confidence and Accountability:
- The government must maintain the support of Parliament to stay in power

Importance of Parliament

Democratic Function:
- Represents the people and holds the government accountable
Legislative Authority:
- The power to create and modify laws
Societal Impact:
- Influences crucial areas like healthcare, education, and national security through legislation

Challenges Facing Parliaments

Political Polarization:
- Divisions between parties make it difficult to find common ground
Public Disengagement:
- Growing disconnect between citizens and their representatives
Transparency and Corruption:
- Issues of accountability that harm public trust

Description

Explore the fundamental roles, functions, and structures of parliament in political science. This quiz covers the key concepts such as legislation, representation, and the differences between bicameral and unicameral systems. Test your knowledge of how parliaments operate and their significance in government.