Political Systems and Public Policy Quiz

Podcast

Play an AI-generated podcast conversation about this lesson

Questions and Answers

What form of government challenged the 'divine right' of kings during the English Revolution?

The Republic (correct)

Constitutional Monarchy

Direct Democracy

Absolute Monarchy

Which year is associated with significant reforms in the voting system in England?

1789

1640

1832 (correct)

1867 (correct)

Which philosophical ideas are reflected in the democratic movements mentioned?

Aristotle's Concept of Justice (correct)

Plato's Theory of Forms

Hobbes' Social Contract

Locke's Natural Rights (correct)

In which political body were limits on power discussed as part of democratic reforms?

House of Commons Signup and view all the answers

What type of democracy is associated with the assemblies of Ancient Greece?

Direct Democracy Signup and view all the answers

What defines public policy?

A course of action selected by public authorities to tackle specific problems. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes a basic goal of governing?

To ensure the overall economy functions smoothly. Signup and view all the answers

What is a significant drawback of focusing solely on economic prosperity?

It does not necessarily improve quality of life for the entire population. Signup and view all the answers

What do Keynesian economic policies advocate during low business investment?

Reducing taxes to stimulate spending. Signup and view all the answers

How do neo-liberal ideas perceive the market?

As self-regulating and efficient. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best illustrates systemic issues represented by state institutions?

Governance structures that fail to address interconnected societal problems. Signup and view all the answers

What is a potential consequence of high investment creating inflation?

Public policies may need to cool down the economy. Signup and view all the answers

In the context of public policy, why is safety often balanced with economic goals?

Economic goals sometimes undermine safety and security. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary argument made by Milton Friedman regarding government budgets?

Government should have a balanced budget while keeping individual taxes low. Signup and view all the answers

What do critics argue about the welfare state?

It contributes to increased government deficits and debts. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is an example of a program within Canada's welfare state?

Canada Pension Plan Signup and view all the answers

What was one of the consequences of the Assimilation Policy for Indigenous peoples?

The establishment of Residential schools for children. Signup and view all the answers

What was the role of the 'Indian Agent' created in the early 1870s?

To implement government policy on reserves and enforce the Indian Act. Signup and view all the answers

Which province in Canada had the highest welfare incomes for unattached singles considered employable?

Quebec Signup and view all the answers

Which of these statements best summarizes the critics' perspective on funding the welfare state?

Funding the welfare state can be seen as an increased financial burden. Signup and view all the answers

What aspect of the welfare state is highlighted as being crucial for societal protection?

Ensuring a minimum standard of living through government support. Signup and view all the answers

What is a characteristic of hegemonic party regimes?

The ruling party ensures its dominance over electoral outcomes. Signup and view all the answers

Which type of dictatorship is characterized by having a single ruler with total control?

Personal Dictatorship Signup and view all the answers

What is a common method employed by non-democratic regimes to maintain control?

Using coercion as a governing instrument Signup and view all the answers

In contrast to democracies, non-democratic governments primarily focus on which of the following?

Determining the common good as defined by rulers Signup and view all the answers

Which country is NOT listed as a current example of an economy planned and controlled by the party?

Cuba Signup and view all the answers

What is norm erosion primarily concerned with in political contexts?

The acceptance of unofficial behavior standards Signup and view all the answers

Which principle is NOT typically associated with democratic regimes?

Totalitarianism Signup and view all the answers

In which type of regime do people generally lack a practical say in governance?

Authoritarian regimes Signup and view all the answers

Which characteristic is NOT a typical feature of totalitarian systems?

Electric fraud during elections Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes hybrid regimes from purely democratic or authoritarian systems?

Combining features of both democracies and authoritarianism Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best defines a regime in political terms?

A system governing the interaction between citizens and government Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes non-democratic regimes?

Where the majority lacks genuine influence over governance Signup and view all the answers

What emphasizes the importance of norm erosion in political behavior?

It establishes unwritten standards governing interactions Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary reason elites supported the inclusion of the working class in representative democracy?

To prevent a potential revolution Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best defines liberal democracy as per the provided content?

A political system emphasizing individual freedom, limited government, and rule of law Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT one of the four principles of liberal democracy?

Arbitrary government control Signup and view all the answers

Which condition is essential for the Rule of Law as stated in the content?

The law is known or knowable to all Signup and view all the answers

How does political pluralism influence government according to the provided content?

It generates independent centers of power that can challenge the government Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following countries was the first to grant women the right to vote?

New Zealand in 1893 Signup and view all the answers

What does the phrase 'government of law and not of men' imply about governance?

Government actions must adhere to established laws and regulations Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is true regarding the political rights of women in the selected countries?

Suffragette movements were instrumental in achieving women's voting rights Signup and view all the answers

Which country retains a hereditary monarch as its official head of state?

Canada Signup and view all the answers

What was the percentage of people who opposed the idea of having Prince Charles as the heir in the 2016 poll?

48% Signup and view all the answers

In the context given, which countries no longer have the King as their head of state?

India and Pakistan Signup and view all the answers

What role does the Privy Council's Office (PCO) serve in the government structure?

It provides administrative structure directly to the Prime Minister. Signup and view all the answers

What sentiment was expressed during Queen Elizabeth II's visit to Quebec in 1964?

Significant protests against her presence. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of Cabinet secrecy for 20 years?

To facilitate full and honest discussion among Cabinet members Signup and view all the answers

Which chamber of the Parliament provides a forum for the opposition to critique the government?

The House of Commons Signup and view all the answers

How is representation in the House of Commons determined?

By district boundaries adjusted after a decennial census Signup and view all the answers

What action can the opposition parties take in the House of Commons?

Criticize government actions publicly Signup and view all the answers

Which statement best describes the relationship between the Cabinet and the House of Commons?

The Cabinet is accountable to the House for its actions Signup and view all the answers

Why might there be a discussion about the Cabinet being more open to the public?

To enhance accountability and public trust Signup and view all the answers

What is a key function of the Senate in the Canadian Parliament?

To serve as a buffer against popular opinion Signup and view all the answers

What might a 'gag order' imply in the context of government transparency?

A policy to inhibit the release of information that aids public discussion Signup and view all the answers

What is one main role of the Canadian Senate in the legislative process?

Offering a body of review to assess House of Commons decisions. Signup and view all the answers

What happens after a bill is approved by the House of Commons?

It goes to the Senate for additional examination. Signup and view all the answers

Which feature distinguishes Senators from ordinary members of the House of Commons?

Senators are appointed based on the Prime Minister's recommendations. Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of a non-confidence motion in the context of the Canadian government?

It expresses a lack of confidence in the government's capability, potentially leading to its resignation. Signup and view all the answers

Which aspect describes the general perception of the Senate's public and media attention?

Senators typically do not receive much media or public attention. Signup and view all the answers

Which term describes delaying tactics used by an opposing party during the legislative process?

Filibuster Signup and view all the answers

What is an example of a topic that the Senate has prepared reports on?

Science policy Signup and view all the answers

How does the role of the Official Opposition in Canada manifest in the legislative process?

They lead the questioning and criticism of the governing party. Signup and view all the answers

Which system involves a Prime Minister who proposes most of the laws passed by Parliament?

Westminster System Signup and view all the answers

In a coalition government, which of the following statements is true?

Multiple parties share Cabinet positions. Signup and view all the answers

What is a constructive vote of confidence?

A procedure that requires a majority to agree on a new Prime Minister. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary role of the Canadian Governor General?

To act as a non-partisan symbol of unity Signup and view all the answers

Which form of government specifies that the political executive is responsible for implementing laws and making daily government decisions?

Parliamentary System Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements best describes the responsibilities of the Canadian Governor General?

Ensures a legitimate government is in place Signup and view all the answers

Which country is NOT part of the Commonwealth mentioned in the context of parliamentary systems?

Denmark Signup and view all the answers

Which power allows the Governor General to dissolve Parliament?

Prerogative powers Signup and view all the answers

Which political structure is characterized by having no single party in a clear majority?

Minority Government Signup and view all the answers

What event did Prime Minister Harper request the Governor General to implement in 2009?

Prorogue Parliament to suspend activities Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes a minority government?

A situation where the ruling party has less than half the seats. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the appointment process of the Governor General?

Recommended by the prime minister and appointed by the monarch Signup and view all the answers

Which countries are listed as operating within a parliamentary system where the Prime Minister's party has a majority?

India and Canada Signup and view all the answers

What is a primary characteristic of the office of the Head of State in Canada?

Non-partisan involvement in governance Signup and view all the answers

What is a significant outcome of a government acting unconstitutionally, as ensured by the Head of State?

Potential dismissal of the government Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following accurately describes the nature of governor generals in Canada?

They perform duties on behalf of the Crown Signup and view all the answers

What is the main accountability requirement of the Prime Minister and Cabinet in a parliamentary system?

They must retain the support of elected members of the House of Commons. Signup and view all the answers

In a majority government situation within a parliamentary system, what is a potential drawback?

Concentration of power in the hands of the Prime Minister and Cabinet. Signup and view all the answers

What happens if a non-confidence motion is passed in a parliamentary democracy?

The Prime Minister is required to resign or call for elections. Signup and view all the answers

Which type of political structure does the Westminster System exemplify?

Adversarial relationships between governing and opposition parties. Signup and view all the answers

What is a significant characteristic of a responsible government in a parliamentary system?

Requirement to maintain the support of elected representatives. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary role of Parliament in a parliamentary system?

To serve as the supreme law-making body. Signup and view all the answers

In parliamentary systems, what is the result of the Prime Minister and Cabinet's accountability to Parliament?

Dependence on public support to avoid losing office. Signup and view all the answers

Which is a consequence of government secrecy in a parliamentary system?

Potential eroding of accountability. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of the reasonable limits clause found in Section 1 of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms?

To permit laws that place justifiable restrictions on rights in a democratic society. Signup and view all the answers

Which statement accurately describes the notwithstanding clause in the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms?

It allows temporary suspension of rights under specific conditions. Signup and view all the answers

What historical events highlight the need for the protection of rights and freedoms in Canada?

The internment of Japanese and Italian Canadians during WWII and the treatment of Indigenous Peoples. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a limitation placed on freedoms by the reasonable limits clause?

Limits on advertising aimed at children. Signup and view all the answers

What was the strategic purpose of Pierre Trudeau agreeing to the inclusion of the notwithstanding clause in the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms?

To compromise with provincial leaders for constitutional agreement. Signup and view all the answers

What role does the Supreme Court of Canada serve in relation to the Constitution?

It is the final authority on the interpretation of the Constitution. Signup and view all the answers

Which statement reflects a concern about judicial review in relation to separation of powers?

Judicial review allows judges to have too much influence over politics. Signup and view all the answers

In what year was the Supreme Court of Canada established?

1875 Signup and view all the answers

What was one of the Supreme Court's notable decisions regarding mental health laws?

It ruled that the Council of Canadians with Disabilities could challenge BC’s mental health laws. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following topics has the Supreme Court of Canada NOT addressed?

Healthcare funding models Signup and view all the answers

What type of legal traditions does the Supreme Court of Canada utilize in its rulings?

Common law and civil law Signup and view all the answers

What was a significant ruling by the Supreme Court regarding sexual assault?

Failure to wear a condom could constitute sexual assault. Signup and view all the answers

What is a potential consequence of suspending civil liberties in response to terrorism?

Erosion of public trust in government Signup and view all the answers

Which statement accurately describes the Supreme Court's approach to criminal law in 2022?

It dealt with a variety of criminal law appeals, including child custody cases. Signup and view all the answers

Which action taken under Canada's Anti-Terrorism Act allows for the indefinite detention of non-citizens?

Holding individuals indefinitely or returning them Signup and view all the answers

What justification is often provided for using drone strikes against suspected terrorists?

To eliminate high-value targets quickly and efficiently Signup and view all the answers

What primary change did Bill C-51 introduce regarding the Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS)?

It expanded CSIS's authority to take any actions deemed reasonable to reduce threats Signup and view all the answers

What characterizes the Canadian Constitution in terms of its foundational components?

A combination of written elements, statutes, and conventions. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements best captures the role of the Constitution in a government?

It protects the rights of citizens and limits government authority. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following was a key reason the Supreme Court ruled that same-sex marriage laws violated equality rights?

Same-sex couples were entitled to legal benefits associated with marriage. Signup and view all the answers

What ethical dilemma is presented with the tactic of using drones for targeted killings in counter-terrorism efforts?

It may lead to increased terrorist recruitment due to anger against the state Signup and view all the answers

What significant step did Canada take on July 20, 2005, regarding same-sex marriage?

Introduced the Civil Marriage Act. Signup and view all the answers

What was the significance of the Constitution Act of 1982 for Canada?

It fully repatriated the Canadian Constitution from the UK. Signup and view all the answers

Which legal principle was reaffirmed by the Supreme Court in 1995 concerning sexual orientation discrimination?

Discrimination based on sexual orientation violates equality rights. Signup and view all the answers

Which event is associated with the introduction of the Charter of Rights and Freedoms in Canada?

The repatriation of the Constitution in 1982. Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes a constitutional government from other forms of governance?

It restricts government powers and protects citizens' rights. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following bills directly addresses issues related to gender identity and discrimination in Canada?

Bill C-16: Gender Identity and Gender Expression Signup and view all the answers

Which countries legalizing same-sex marriage preceded Canada in this action?

Netherlands and Spain Signup and view all the answers

In terms of referendums, how does Canada differ from many other countries?

Referendums are less common at the national level. Signup and view all the answers

What unique characteristic does the judicial system have that is essential for its functioning?

It maintains a hierarchy in court systems. Signup and view all the answers

Which constitutional element is considered the core written component of the Canadian Constitution?

The Constitution Act, 1867. Signup and view all the answers

What principle does liberal democracy emphasize regarding the relationship between government and citizens?

Government must adhere to the rule of law and protect individual rights. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following represents a potential conflict highlighted in the discussion about rights and responsibilities in Canadian society?

Individual rights versus the obligation to uphold community welfare. Signup and view all the answers

In which case did the Supreme Court assert the violation of security of the person concerning abortion laws?

1988 case that decriminalized abortion Signup and view all the answers

What is a characteristic feature of common law systems?

It relies primarily on judges' decisions and precedents. Signup and view all the answers

Which type of legal system predominantly influences the law in European countries?

Civil Law Signup and view all the answers

How have governments typically responded to threats of terrorism since major attacks?

By implementing stringent laws that often infringe upon individual rights. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes a significant consequence of extended detention without trial?

It raises serious questions about human rights violations. Signup and view all the answers

What legal principle is often challenged by counter-terrorism measures?

Due process Signup and view all the answers

How does Sharia Law differ significantly from common law systems?

It incorporates religious texts and teachings into legal rulings. Signup and view all the answers

What role do quasi-judicial tribunals play in common law systems?

They operate alongside judges to interpret previous case rulings. Signup and view all the answers

What has been one of the consequences of detaining individuals at Guantanamo Bay?

It continues to raise concerns over prolonged detention without charges. Signup and view all the answers

Which theory attributes underdevelopment to unequal power relations between countries?

Dependency Theory Signup and view all the answers

What constitutes the Human Development Index (HDI)?

Educational attainment, life expectancy, and income Signup and view all the answers

Which development scenario indicates a situation of improvement leading to stable progress?

Successful development Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary focus of the Realist approach in politics?

The security and survival of individual states Signup and view all the answers

In the context of international relations, what does 'multi-polar system' refer to?

A structure with multiple states having significant power Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes a hegemon in international relations?

A single superpower exercising leadership through consensus Signup and view all the answers

What indicates a Consolidated Democracy?

A nation with a stable, accepted democratic government Signup and view all the answers

What challenge does Official Development Assistance (ODA) present to poorer countries?

It often results in the acceptance of unfair trading agreements. Signup and view all the answers

Which statement best describes the relationship between individual rights and the common good in a rights culture?

A balance between individual rights and community responsibilities fosters societal well-being. Signup and view all the answers

What is the main concern regarding the independence of the judicial system?

Judicial independence may lead to judges having unchecked power. Signup and view all the answers

What does the term 'Developing Countries' refer to?

Countries still working to meet the basic needs of their populations. Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the primary goals of development as described in the content?

Satisfying everyone's basic needs for a fulfilling life. Signup and view all the answers

Which description most accurately depicts the economic disparity between developed and developing nations?

Developed nations have 60% of the world's income while being only 16% of the population. Signup and view all the answers

What is a critical characteristic of the judicial system regarding its relationship to politics?

An independent judiciary acts as a check against political powers. Signup and view all the answers

How is the concept of wealth distribution expressed in the context of global income?

A small percentage of the global population controls the majority of wealth. Signup and view all the answers

What does the term 'common good' emphasize in the context of societal rights and responsibilities?

Prioritizing community and individual welfare equally. Signup and view all the answers

What was a significant regulatory action taken by BP just before the disaster in the Gulf of Mexico?

They lobbied for broader categorical exemptions from environmental assessments. Signup and view all the answers

What was one major consequence of the BP oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico?

The death of marine life including birds, dolphins, and fish. Signup and view all the answers

What has been a trend in the government's approach to regulation in the past decade regarding industries?

A move towards deregulation to benefit competitive markets. Signup and view all the answers

Which statement best describes the public policy approach taken before the Gulf oil disaster?

There was a reliance on industry self-regulation rather than strict government oversight. Signup and view all the answers

What was one of the justifications used by BP regarding potential environmental impacts before the spill?

Spills were deemed unlikely to result in sublethal effects on marine mammals. Signup and view all the answers

What is a common criticism related to the relationship between government regulation and the oil industry?

Businesses claim regulations hinder competition and profits. Signup and view all the answers

What approach did the National Energy Board in Canada adopt in 2009 regarding environmental protection?

A modern, goal-oriented approach allowing companies to identify their own environmental protections. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best illustrates the impact of lobbying on public policy in the context of the oil industry?

Oil companies often lobby for reduced regulations, resulting in disaster risks. Signup and view all the answers

What is one reason the welfare state is said to contribute to economic growth?

By investing in education and health Signup and view all the answers

Which statement reflects a criticism of the welfare state?

It may deter individual responsibility and initiative. Signup and view all the answers

Which feature distinguishes the welfare state's approach in Canada from that in the United States?

Canada provides healthcare for all provinces. Signup and view all the answers

Which statement accurately describes the 1996 policy change regarding welfare in the United States?

It limited welfare eligibility to five years in a lifetime. Signup and view all the answers

How do welfare states aim to support individuals during economic transitions?

By providing financial support for job retraining. Signup and view all the answers

What is a key argument presented by Thomas Hobbes regarding government authority?

Governance should maintain absolute authority for public safety. Signup and view all the answers

Which philosophical concept did John Locke introduce regarding the establishment of government?

The concept of a social contract for protection of rights. Signup and view all the answers

How do public authorities typically determine priority areas for policy?

Through consultations with various societal groups and interests. Signup and view all the answers

What conflict does Hobbes identify as a precursor to the establishment of government?

A state of war characterized by chaos among individuals. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the relationship between public policy and societal issues?

The existence of various societal problems influences public policy decisions. Signup and view all the answers

What role do interest groups play in shaping public policy according to the principles discussed?

They provide essential insights into public priorities and concerns. Signup and view all the answers

Which factor is least likely to influence government priority areas on public policy?

Public approval ratings on unrelated issues. Signup and view all the answers

How does Hobbes' view on personal safety relate to the role of government?

The government exists to protect citizens from the chaos of the state of nature. Signup and view all the answers

What does the concept of a welfare state aim to provide for its citizens?

Protection from economic hardships Signup and view all the answers

Which criticism is commonly associated with the welfare state?

It may create disincentives for individuals to work. Signup and view all the answers

What socio-political climate contributed to the establishment of welfare policies in the 1940s-1950s?

A growing threat of communism Signup and view all the answers

What was a major result of the mobilization of society during World War II?

Increased government roles in economic management Signup and view all the answers

How does a guaranteed basic annual income relate to the welfare state?

It provides a basic safety net for citizens. Signup and view all the answers

What can be a likely consequence of increasing taxes to support the welfare state?

Potential growth in public dependency. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes a public perception of the welfare state?

It frequently faces criticism for potential dependency issues. Signup and view all the answers

What impact did the Great Depression of the 1930s have on government attitudes towards welfare?

It resulted in more positive views on government responsibility. Signup and view all the answers

What is a significant implication of increasing inequality in income and wealth in Canada and the United States?

It causes a growing burden of poverty on the lowest income groups. Signup and view all the answers

How do publicly funded healthcare systems in developed countries primarily benefit the population?

They provide widespread access to health services, increasing life expectancy. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following factors is crucial for ensuring the security of a nation against foreign threats?

Modern military technology and defense policy. Signup and view all the answers

What contributes to the significant tax losses in Canada due to the offshore transfer of funds?

High levels of income inequality leading to tax evasion. Signup and view all the answers

What is a key feature of the Pluralist perspective on public policy within democracies?

It emphasizes the influence of organized groups competing for policy outcomes. Signup and view all the answers

In countries characterized by violent civil wars, what is typically the primary concern for the population?

Personal safety and security. Signup and view all the answers

In the context of public choice theory, what is a potential negative effect of politicians catering to individual interests?

It may lead to a lack of accountability in public office. Signup and view all the answers

Which statement accurately reflects the state of income distribution in the United States?

More than 354 times the average employee's income is earned by the highest-paid CEOs. Signup and view all the answers

What does the Neo-Marxist theory suggest about the nature of politics in society?

Politics is shaped by the socio-economic divisions in society. Signup and view all the answers

Which statement accurately reflects the central belief of State-centred theory regarding public policy?

Public policy reflects the priorities of those in positions of authority within state institutions. Signup and view all the answers

What impact does a well-trained police force have on the state of national security?

It is essential for both internal safety and international stability. Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of public policy in addressing income inequality?

To provide a framework for tax structures and social programs. Signup and view all the answers

What outcome do countries with increased access to public meeting spaces usually achieve?

Enhanced community engagement and civic participation. Signup and view all the answers

In what way does public assistance for immigrants contribute to society, according to the discussed concepts?

It creates a sense of community and improves societal happiness. Signup and view all the answers

How is modern military technology essential in the contemporary defense of a nation?

It allows a nation to respond more efficiently to diverse threats. Signup and view all the answers

Which issue does the conflict perspective highlight as a challenge within the public policy framework?

The unequal distribution of power among social classes. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Public Policy

Question: What is Public Policy?
Question: Where have you heard the term "public policy" used?
Question: How can public policy affect social issues?

The Goals of Governing

Public policy is a course of action chosen by public authorities to address problems.
A basic goal of governing is to provide safety and security for the public.
The government tries to ensure smooth economic functioning.
Economic prosperity does not always improve the quality of life.
There's a balance between safety and the cost of safety.

Public Policy: A Matter of Life and Death

Toronto experiences extreme cold weather alerts.
The question is, if deaths are not enough to trigger an alert, what is the point?
The story highlights the importance of public policy.

Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs

A visual representation of human needs from basic to self-actualization.
A possible framework to influence public policies related to human needs.

The Economy VS. Societal Needs

Keynesian economic policies: stimulate the economy by spending or reducing taxes when needed, and cool down the economy by reducing taxes or increasing spending.
Neo-liberal ideas: view the market as efficient and self-regulating, and advocate for a balanced budget.

The Welfare State

Welfare state: The government ensures citizens have a minimum standard of living protected against unemployment, sickness, disability, and old age.
Supported by government-funded and subsidized services.
Critics argue that the welfare state increases the tax burden and contributes to government deficits and debt.
Examples of Canada's Welfare State include child tax benefits, employment insurance, the Canada Pension Plan, old age security, health care, low-income housing, and the Ontario Disability Support Program.
Data on how these programs spend money are shown in a pie chart.

Public Policy & Indigenous Communities

The history of Indigenous peoples in Canada is marked by a narrative of oppression/assimilation policies.

Assimilation Policy

Step 1: Indigenous peoples were expected to adopt Euro-Canadian values, behaviours, and institutions. Colonial officials weakened Indigenous leadership, destroyed trading patterns, and banned traditional practices.
Step 2: Colonizers planned to dismantle reserves and move Indigenous peoples into mainstream society after the Indigenous way of life was wiped out.
Why did the assimilation policy happen?: The creation of "Indian Agents" in 1870's. This was a government policy to enforce and implement policies, managing the everyday affairs of First Nations people. This ultimately led to the creation of residential schools.

Public Policy Changes

The Indian Act, which includes higher rates of death in children, child suicide, inadequate housing conditions, poorer health, higher levels of incarceration, and higher rates of unemployment/lower levels of income, highlights the impact of the act.

NEW: Public Policy Changes

Indigenous self-government is gaining control over child welfare legislation. This is the first jurisdiction in Canada that recognizes an inherent right of self-government. The goal is to keep Indigenous children and youth safely connected to their families, cultures, and communities. The legislation was passed on December 22, 2022.
The changes will allow Indigenous peoples to legally assume jurisdiction over child and family services in their communities.

Democracy and Democratic Government

Democracy is derived from ancient Greek words meaning "rule by the people."
The idea is that all adult citizens have an equal voice in political decisions.
Involving the population in the political process leads to better policies.
Guaranteeing political rights, freedoms, and the ability for individuals to organize and influence law allows for a free and informed choice during elections.

Democracy - Historical Context

Direct democracy: citizens directly make governing decisions (e.g., Athens' assemblies).
Types of rule: Kingship, aristocracy, oligarchy, polity, and democracy.
Aristotle's classification of political communities focused on who rules (one, few, or many) and whether the rule is for the common good or self-interest.
Representative democracy: citizens elect representatives to make decisions.

Development of Democracy

Athenian democracy in Greece (510 BCE)
Roman Republic (509-27 BCE)
The ideas of democracy were revived in 1640 in England by the Levellers.
French Revolution of 1789-1799 challenged the divine right of kings.
The American Revolution (1775-1783) established a republic.
Gradual expansions of voting rights and representative systems over time.

The Development of Democracy (Continued)

Key moments in the development of democracy include the expanding right to vote to all men in the UK, and to women.
Specific countries that achieved important democratic landmarks.

Liberal Democracy

Liberal democracy combines limited government, individual freedom, the rule of law, and democratic elections.
Government power is supported by the majority but is still prone to abuse.
Four principles of liberal democracy: placed limits on what government can do, cannot rule arbitrarily — must follow laws and procedures; individual freedom to express views, criticize governments, and organize for political action; political communication in media free of government control; candidates and parties can freely compete for power.

Political Pluralism

Independent centres of power (Unions, Education institutions, Businesses, Media, Social movements) compete to impact government.

The Rule of Law

A government functions through law and not through the arbitrary actions or desires of individuals.
Key principles: limits on government, acting according to laws, and having an independent court system.

Plebiscitary Democracy

After voting for representative voters usually aren't involved in decision-making—which leads to a democratic deficit.
Low trust in government, increased protest activity, or a general sense of a lack of influence can cause citizens to seek other ways of engaging with political decisions—such as referendums, recalls, or citizen initiatives—to increase direct citizen involvement.
Different ways that citizens can influence decision-making.

Plebiscitary Democracy (Continued)

Referendums: citizens vote on policy issues directly, e.g., Quebec's 1995 sovereignty referendum.
Citizens' initiatives: citizens gather signatures to introduce legislation.
Recalls: citizens remove an elected official from office before their term ends.

Deliberative Democracy

Decisions are made based on discussion among citizens, rather than simply by elected representatives.
The benefits include bringing citizens into decision-making through discussions, giving broader involvement in discussions and deliberation of political issues, and hoping people will become more informed and more active citizens.

What Makes Government Democratic?

Accountability: The government is responsible for its actions.
Transparency: The government is open about its actions and access to information.
Public Participation: The government responds to the needs and desires of the people.
Responsiveness: The government responds to public opinions to allow for public input.
Citizen's Jury: a randomly selected group of people who make recommendations about particular issues.

Democracy and the Nation-State

Democracy often operates more smoothly when there's a shared identity, culture, and ideals.
Diversity in communities can help create a more vibrant democracy, as different perspectives are brought to bear on political discourse.
Majority rule should be balanced with creating an environment where minority views are represented.
Federalism can be used as a method to accommodate different cultural groups.

How do Countries Become Less Democratic?

Possible factors that lead to democratic regimes being toppled include: fear of chaos/oppression and the undermining of democratic norms by those in power.
The erosion of normal behaviour or processes in participating in an institution can lead to a loss of democracy—an example of what happens when those in power undermine fairness or normal governing practices.

Non-democratic vs. Democratic Regimes

Democratic regimes: parties lose elections, winners and losers work together, elections are held freely and fairly everyone who is an adult can vote, people hold access to information and meet to discuss issues
Non-democratic regimes: the bulk of the people have no voice or say.

Non-Democratic Regimes

Authoritarian regimes: absolute rule where people don't choose their government or influence it.
Hybrid regimes: a mix of democratic and authoritarian systems—power is often acquired or maintained through electoral fraud, corruption, blackmail, or violence.
Totalitarian regimes: seek to control all aspects of life within a country (e.g., a single party led by a dictator; police state used to control population; control of media and resources; economy planned and controlled by the party).

Types of Dictatorships

Different ways governments are run and who holds the power in non-democratic regimes, including absolute monarchies, personal dictatorships, party dictatorships, military dictatorships, and theocratic dictatorships.

Summary: Non-Democratic Government

In 2018, over half of the world's countries were governed by non-democratic regimes.
Important characteristics of non-democratic regimes include: deciding on the common good using coercion as a means of control.
Non-democratic government regimes typically don't consider the common good of the majority; instead, they typically set out what is good for those in power, punish those that oppose it, and often don't make efforts to listen to the people.

Studying That Suits You

Use AI to generate personalized quizzes and flashcards to suit your learning preferences.

Description

This quiz explores various political systems and the evolution of public policy, highlighting key concepts from the English Revolution to contemporary economic theories. It includes questions on democracy, government limitations, and the implications of policy decisions. Test your knowledge on the philosophical ideas that shaped democratic movements and the challenges faced by state institutions.