Whatever Happened to Justice Ch 27

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Questions and Answers

What primary characteristic do political powerseekers share with addicts, according to the content?

They exhibit extreme self-discipline.

They are often wealthy.

They are motivated by a desire for fairness.

They tend to be dishonest. (correct)

What is described as the most important priority for politicians?

To enact laws that benefit society.

To maintain the power they have. (correct)

To create a peaceful international environment.

To accumulate wealth for themselves.

According to the content, how are politicians’ actions towards laws and wars justified?

They are driven by a thrill similar to addiction. (correct)

They are fulfilling their moral obligations.

They seek to enhance societal welfare.

They prioritize economic growth.

What analogy is used to describe the obsession of politicians with power?

Chess players who enjoy the game itself, regardless of winning. Signup and view all the answers

What does the author suggest is not the true focus of politicians?

Winning wars and achieving victory. Signup and view all the answers

What role do conspiracies play relative to political power, according to the content?

They are just symptoms of the deeper issue of political power. Signup and view all the answers

Which historical figures are referenced in relation to political power and its corrupting effects?

Thomas Jefferson and John Adams. Signup and view all the answers

What is the relationship between power and abuse as described in the content?

All forms of power inherently cause abuse. Signup and view all the answers

What historical examples are provided to illustrate the corruption of the majority by power?

The French Reign of Terror and the Inquisition. Signup and view all the answers

According to the content, what effect does group size have on intelligence?

The total I.Q. of a group decreases as the group gets larger. Signup and view all the answers

What was one of the solutions proposed by America's Founders regarding government?

To minimize government so it cannot do much damage. Signup and view all the answers

What analogy is used to describe political power in the content?

It is like alcohol or any other drug that affects behavior. Signup and view all the answers

What perception did Abigail Adams express about power in her letter?

Power, whether in few or many hands, is ever grasping. Signup and view all the answers

What is suggested as a thrill associated with power?

The exhilaration from domination and conquest. Signup and view all the answers

What did the Founders aim to achieve through the Constitution and the Bill of Rights?

To keep government small and weak. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Political Power and Abuse

Political power is inherently corrupting, affecting both individuals and large groups.
Madison and Hamilton argued that majority rule can lead to oppression if not checked.
History provides various examples of majorities abusing power (French Reign of Terror, Salem witch trials, Nazi Germany, Inquisition, slavery, Mao's Cultural Revolution).
Abigail Adams warned of power's grasping nature.

Human Psychology and Power

Group intelligence diminishes with larger groups.
The thrill of power, domination, and conquest (like a "biochemical high") drives political behavior.
This dynamic applies to mobs and individuals seeking power, echoing a "rush" similar to primitive hunting.

Solutions and Prevention

Limiting government size and power is crucial to prevent abuses.
Implementing private systems for essential goods and services avoids reliance on government force.
The 1787 Constitutional Convention and 1790 Bill of Rights aimed to establish a weak and limited government.

Analogy to Addiction

Political power, like alcohol or drugs, creates predictable behavioral patterns.
Political behavior of individuals is predictable, similar to how addiction affects behavior.
Examples include anti-tax conservatives advocating higher taxes, or anti-war liberals initiating wars.
Deceitfulness is a notable characteristic shared by various types of addicts.

The Nature of Power Seekers

The primary goal of those seeking power isn't necessarily monetary gain; rather, it's about maintaining, and increasing power, and using it to exert dominion.
The "playing" part of political power is emphasized, arguing that the process of using power may be enjoyed more than a specific outcome.
Historical examples like the 1983 Lebanon war are cited as illustrations of this pursuit of power over tangible results.
Political leaders often act as if "without regard for the outcome" or success of the group, prioritizing their individual desire for control.

Conclusion

Politicians are not inherently malicious actors but are driven by the intoxicating effect of power, similar to those addicted to substances.
It's important to recognize the inherent danger of political power, as it has historically led to harmful outcomes.
Understanding the motivations of those in power is crucial to predicting their actions.
Conspiracies are symptoms, not causes, of the corrupting influence of power.

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Description

Explore the intricate relationship between political power and human psychology. This quiz delves into historical examples of power abuse, the dynamics of group behavior, and solutions to prevent tyranny. Analyze key concepts from notable figures like Madison, Hamilton, and Abigail Adams.