Political Science Chapter VI: Elections and Representation

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Questions and Answers

What is the primary function of the executive branch in government?

Judging legal cases

Creating laws

Interpreting laws

Implementing and enforcing laws (correct)

Which of the following describes the relationship between the executive and legislative branches?

The legislative branch can override executive decisions directly

They function independently of each other (correct)

The executive can dissolve the legislature at will

The executive and legislative branches are completely merged

In a parliamentary system, who typically holds the position of chief executive?

The Prime Minister (correct)

The Speaker of the House

The Chief Justice

The President

What is a key feature of both Presidents and legislatures in fixed-term governments?

They have fixed terms of office Signup and view all the answers

What does the principle of separation of powers ensure in a democratic system?

No single branch becomes too powerful Signup and view all the answers

What oversight does Congress have over investigative powers?

Investigate only in aid of legislation Signup and view all the answers

Who directs national governance and mobilizes public support?

The President or Prime Minister Signup and view all the answers

What is one consequence of the fixed terms of office in a government?

Elected officials must stay in office until the end of their terms Signup and view all the answers

What best describes judicial supremacy in the context of the judiciary's role?

The power to nullify acts of the legislature or executive when they conflict with the Constitution. Signup and view all the answers

What is one key characteristic of the Philippine presidential system?

The President serves as both the head of state and head of government. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is not a requirement for a judge in the Philippines?

Judges must engage in political activities. Signup and view all the answers

What role does judicial review serve in the judiciary?

To assess the constitutionality of legislative or executive actions. Signup and view all the answers

During which historical period did the Philippines briefly adopt a semi-presidential system?

1972-1981 Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of a judge?

To interpret and apply the law to cases. Signup and view all the answers

Which branch of government does the judiciary operate independently from?

The executive and legislative branches. Signup and view all the answers

What principle ensures that judges make decisions without political influence?

Judicial independence. Signup and view all the answers

What is the main purpose of quangos in the context of public trust?

To provide expert decision-making without political control Signup and view all the answers

What does the Liberal or Rational Administrative Model emphasize for achieving efficiency?

Hierarchical structure and a professional civil service Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of the Ombudsman in the civil service?

To ensure bureaucratic accountability and investigate misconduct Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following accurately reflects the essence of the Conservative or Power Bloc Model?

Concentration of power within a few bureaucratic elites Signup and view all the answers

How does external control contribute to accountability in the civil service?

Through public scrutiny and media criticism Signup and view all the answers

What is a primary duty required of public officers in the Philippines?

To uphold and defend the Constitution Signup and view all the answers

What leads to corruption in the civil service according to the provided content?

Public officials failing to perform duties due to pursuing personal gain Signup and view all the answers

Which aspect is NOT part of the internal controls outlined for accountability?

Public scrutiny Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary rule for interpreting laws?

To ensure the actual intent and purpose of the law is reflected Signup and view all the answers

What is the nature of bureaucracy according to Albrow in Heywoods (2001)?

A rational organization Signup and view all the answers

What is the term 'bureaucracy' derived from?

French for 'desk' and Greek for 'rule' Signup and view all the answers

What does the holistic construction of the Constitution emphasize?

All parts of the law must be considered in context Signup and view all the answers

What describes civil service in the context of bureaucracy?

A permanent government employment system Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary criticism often leveled against bureaucracy?

Organizational inefficiencies Signup and view all the answers

What did Goodnow and Wilson emphasize regarding public administration?

A merit-based recruitment system Signup and view all the answers

What was the significance of the Pendleton Act of 1883?

It established the Civil Service Commission Signup and view all the answers

What is the basis for appointments in the civil service?

Merit, determined by competitive exams Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following roles may be exempt from civil service exams?

Individuals with specialized skills in highly technical roles Signup and view all the answers

What does the historical theory on local government emphasize?

Decentralization is a natural right for communities Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is prohibited within the civil service?

Acceptance of gifts from foreign governments Signup and view all the answers

What determines eligibility for policy-determining positions in the civil service?

Specific qualifications or government needs Signup and view all the answers

Under which circumstances is nepotism allowed in the civil service?

Only for teaching and medical roles, among others Signup and view all the answers

What is one major difference between career service and non-career service positions?

Career service positions require entry through merit-based exams Signup and view all the answers

What is a potential consequence of accepting double compensation while in government service?

Legal penalties may apply Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of local governments as highlighted in the content?

To play a major role in community organizing and economic growth. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following models emphasizes decentralized governance with a hierarchical structure?

Soviet Model Signup and view all the answers

What does 'decentralization' refer to in the context provided?

Dispersing authority from central government to local bodies. Signup and view all the answers

How do local governments enhance their relationship with central governments?

They cooperate horizontally while maintaining independent authority. Signup and view all the answers

What was the significance of the Local Government Code of 1991 in the Philippines?

It formally established local governance. Signup and view all the answers

Which arrangement describes a 'fused system' of governance?

Local and central governments share authority and responsibilities. Signup and view all the answers

What was President Gerald Ford's role regarding Black History Month?

He officially recognized Black History Month in 1976. Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the main reasons for the creation of local governments?

To improve accountability and responsiveness. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Chapter VI: Representation, Election, and Suffrage

Elections are central to democratic politics, requiring citizen participation.
Elections are competitive processes for obtaining office.
Competitive elections hold governments accountable to the governed.
Top-down elections are tools of elite control, encouraging obedience to the state.
Representative democracy involves electing officials to represent the people's interests.
Representation can be through delegation, trusteeship, or resemblance.
Delegate Model: Politicians follow the views of represented people.
Trustee Model: Politicians act based on their own judgment for the greater good.
Mandate Model: Elections provide a mandate for implementing policies.
Resemblance Model: Representatives mirror the characteristics of those they represent.
Elections build support bases and select leaders, promoting legitimacy and recruitment.

Electoral System

Electoral systems govern election procedures.
Voting acts as a civic duty impacting leader selection.
Voting is a moral responsibility, securing a country's future.

Classical Theories of Suffrage

Ethical Theory: Suffrage develops a citizen's potential.

Legal Theories of Suffrage

Legal Theory: Suffrage is a privilege granted by the state.
Tribal theory: Suffrage is a right of membership in a political entity.
Natural Right theory: Suffrage is an inherent right of the people to choose their leaders.
Feudal theory: Suffrage is based on property ownership or tax payment.

Contemporary Theories of Voting

Party Identification: Voting based on party affiliation, not current events.
Sociological Model: Social group and class influence voting behavior.
Rational Choice Model: Voting is rationally calculated to serve self-interest.
Dominant Ideology Model: Voting is influenced by manipulative ideology.

Categories of Voters

Anthony Downs: Voters vote if benefits outweigh costs.
Income and Education: Higher socioeconomic statuses are more likely to vote.
Age and Gender: Younger people and women may be less politically involved.
Race and Ethnicity: Minority groups may be less politically involved.
Area of Residence: Urban residents generally have higher turnout.

Electoral Participation

Long-term influences: Socioeconomic status and party affiliation drive voting.
Short-term influences: Current events and personal affiliations impact decision-making.
Class voting: Social class is a significant factor.

Chapter VII: Legislative Assemblies

Legistlative assemblies represent the people and form the laws.
Legistlative power is seen as fundamental to a liberal democracy.
Features of legislative power include: passage of bills, amending of existing laws, creation of new laws and amending of laws.
Legislative power exists when a bill is passed, an existing law is replaced or amended.
Legislative power is vested in the congress, which may be unicameral or bicameral.
Initiative allows for direct voter involvement in lawmaking.
Referendums allow the people to vote on laws proposed by legislative bodies.
Bicameral system involves two chambers; unicameral systems employ only one.
Bicameral system strengths include distinct representation, enhanced deliberation and preventing concentration of power.

Chapter VIII: Political Executive: Presidential vs. Parliamentary Systems

Executive branch implements and enforces laws.
This branch is headed by a president in a presidential system or a prime minister in a parliamentary system.
Presidential systems feature elected presidents directly accountable to the people, responsible for both domestic and foreign policies.
Core features of this system include: fixed terms, independence of executive from legislative, and divided power.
Parliamentary systems feature parliaments electing the head of the executive (prime minister), typically responsible for domestic policy while the broader role of the head of state is occupied by a monarch.
Key features include: fusion of powers, no fixed terms for executive (can be removed from legislation via vote of no-confidence), and a ceremonial head of state.
Semi-presidential systems combine elements of both.

Chapter IX: Judiciary

The judiciary interprets laws and settles disputes.
Key features of the judiciary include: independence from political interference, the ability to enforce legal rulings and the interpretation of laws.
Judicial power involves settling disputes and enforcing rulings.
The doctrine of judicial supremacy, asserts the judiciary's authority to nullify laws or executive actions not compatible with the constitution.
Key requirements for a judge include: independence, neutrality and impartiality.
Judicial review involves testing the validity of legislative and executive actions, evaluating conformity with the constitution

Chapter X: Bureaucracy and the Public Sector

Bureaucracy is the administrative structure within government.
Bureaucracy is tasked with implementing, enforcing and executing laws.
Bureaucracy employs administrative machinery and civil service personnel.
Bureaucracy enables the efficient delivery of public services.
Theories of bureaucracy include Weberian, New Right, and Government Oversupply models.

Chapter XI: Local Governments

Local governments manage local affairs.
They derive authority from higher levels of government.
Local governments are key for efficient service delivery, enhancing accountability and responsiveness.
Key models: Dual, fused, competence, and traditional.
Decentralization, devolution, and deconcentration refer to the transfer of authority to local levels.

Chapter XII: Civil Service in the Philippines

Civil service employees are all those appointed in the government.
Civil service comprises government employees who are appointed via merit-based competitive exams.
Accountability is vital to ensuring a just and efficient administrative system.
Exemptions exist for highly specialized skill sets and roles requiring discretion or decision/policy-making.

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Explore the critical roles of elections in democratic systems and citizen participation. This quiz delves into various models of representation, electoral systems, and the implications of competitive elections for governance. Test your knowledge on the dynamics of elections and their significance in holding governments accountable.