Political Theory Midterm Review
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Questions and Answers

What is the main ideal behind the Rule of Law?

  • Laws should be flexible and constantly changing
  • Everyone is subject to the same laws, including leaders (correct)
  • Only leaders are subject to laws
  • Laws can be ignored in emergencies

Deliberative democracy insists that deliberation is unnecessary for effective decision-making.

False (B)

What is the boundary problem in democratic theory?

The boundary problem refers to the challenge of determining who counts as 'the people' in a democracy.

_________ democracy sees democracy as a matter of adversarial conflict and values this aspect.

<p>Agonistic</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the following democracy theories with their characteristics:

<p>Procedural Democracy = Focuses on establishing the best decision-making procedures Substantial Democracy = Aims to achieve substantial goals and outcomes Activist Democracy = Engages in direct action like boycotts and guerilla theatre Populism = Seeks to return power to the people, opposing distant elites</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following describes a key difference between the United States and Canada regarding their systems of government?

<p>Canada's system is more centralized than that of the United States. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In Canada, it is nearly impossible to amend the constitution.

<p>True (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is one area where the federal government in both Canada and the United States holds power?

<p>Taxation</p> Signup and view all the answers

The United States was a product of a revolution against ______, while Canada emerged from a mix of colonialism and ______.

<p>colonialism, conservatism</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the following descriptions with the correct country:

<p>Federal system with separation of power = United States Parliamentary system with fusion of powers = Canada Constitutionally entrenched rights = Both Nearly impossible to amend = Canada</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following describes objective reality?

<p>Reality independent of the mind (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Neutrality involves taking a stance on an issue.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

According to Steven Lukes, what is the one-dimensional exercise of power?

<p>Imposing one's will on the conduct of others directly.</p> Signup and view all the answers

In the context of government power, the term ______ refers to the monopoly of legitimate use of physical force within a territory.

<p>State</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the dimensions of power with their definitions:

<p>One Dimensional Power = Imposing will directly Two Dimensional Power = Shaping the agenda behind the scenes Three Dimensional Power = A dimension not mentioned Power in Politics = A social construct defined by laws and rights</p> Signup and view all the answers

What fallacy is characterized by the belief that truth lies between two opposing positions?

<p>Argument to moderation (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Rousseau indicated that law and rights are essential for power.

<p>True (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of Dana Haraway's perspective on objectivity?

<p>Objectivity is partial and every view is from a specific viewpoint.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following describes constitutions as nouns?

<p>The supreme law of the people (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Written constitutions are easier to change than unwritten constitutions.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does it mean to say that constitutions are contested?

<p>Constitutions are debated or challenged in terms of their meaning and application.</p> Signup and view all the answers

The British constitution is based on __________ and a series of statutes.

<p>convention</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the following constitutional types with their characteristics:

<p>Written Constitution = Codified in a document Unwritten Constitution = Consists of conventions and statutes Supreme Law = More powerful than other laws Amending Formula = Rules about how to change the constitution</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best defines constitutions?

<p>Fundamental rules and principles governing a state (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The American Constitution was formally drafted in 1789.

<p>True (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Name one influence on the founders of the US and French constitutions.

<p>Enlightenment liberal thinkers</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is meant by 'Three Dimensional Power'?

<p>A construct encompassing structural, discursive, and collective forces. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Indigenous sovereignty is solely recognized within nation-state borders.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the Doctrine of Discovery refer to?

<p>The principle allowing Christians to claim land occupied by 'uncivilized' people.</p> Signup and view all the answers

The Peace of Westphalia recognized the full territorial __________ of member states.

<p>sovereignty</p> Signup and view all the answers

What societal misconception does the example of gender roles highlight?

<p>Cultural norms can shape self-perception and career potential. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the following concepts to their definitions:

<p>Sovereignty = Full territorial authority of a state. Discursive Power = Shaping perceptions to prevent conflict. Three Dimensional Power = Combination of structural and discursive influences. Doctrine of Discovery = Claiming land based on civilization standards.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Indigenous political-economic principles include __________, sustainability, and shared jurisdiction.

<p>reciprocity</p> Signup and view all the answers

Settler colonialism has reinforced Indigenous sovereignty.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the principle of impartiality in the Canadian courts ensure?

<p>You are entitled to an impartial judge. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Judicial activism strictly adheres to the letter of the law.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the key distinction between impartiality and independence in the judiciary?

<p>Impartiality is an ethic instilled in judges, while independence refers to the judiciary's detachment from legislative and executive branches.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Judges in Canada must maintain __________ neutrality by not making political statements.

<p>political</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the following concepts with their correct descriptions:

<p>Impartiality = The ethic of being unbiased in judgment Independence = Detachment from other branches of government Judicial Activism = Going beyond written law to realize implicit principles Judicial Restraint = Adhering closely to existing laws and precedents</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which principle ensures that decisions can be appealed in the Canadian court system?

<p>Higher Courts (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Judges can express their personal opinions about political issues freely.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the bureaucratic system of appointing judges aim to ensure?

<p>A track record of impartiality in judges.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Subjective Reality

Reality perceived through personal mental characteristics, beliefs, and experiences.

Objective Reality

Reality independent of individual perceptions, existing outside of the mind.

Neutrality

Avoiding taking a stance or expressing personal opinions.

Argument to Moderation Fallacy

A logical fallacy that assumes the 'truth' lies in the middle ground between two opposing viewpoints.

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Perspective & Objectivity

Every viewpoint is subjective, even objectivity is partial.

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Power's Essence

Power is not just strength, but the ability to exert control through laws, rights, and legitimate force.

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The State's Defining Characteristic

A state holds the monopoly on the legitimate use of physical force within a territory.

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One-Dimensional Power

The direct control of another's actions, forcing them to do something they otherwise wouldn't.

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Rule of Law

A fundamental principle stating that everyone, including leaders and lawmakers, is subject to the same laws.

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Democratic Universalism

The belief that democracy is a universal ideal applicable to all societies.

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Procedural Democracy

Prioritizes the processes and structures of decision-making to ensure fairness and legitimacy.

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Substantial Democracy

Aims to achieve specific outcomes and address social inequalities through democratic processes.

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Deliberative Democracy

Emphasizes reasoned discussion and argumentation as essential elements of decision-making.

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US vs. Canada: Formation

The US emerged from a revolution against colonialism, while Canada developed through a more conservative process of continued colonial ties.

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US vs. Canada: Government Systems

The US has a federal system with separation of powers, while Canada has a parliamentary system with a fusion of powers.

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US vs. Canada: Constitution Amendments

The US Constitution is relatively easy to amend, while Canada's is very difficult to change.

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Canadian Federalism: Shared Sovereignty

In Canada's federal system, both the central government and the provinces share power and authority.

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Federal Power in Canada

Canada's federal government has significant power in areas like defence, trade, and taxation.

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Illusion of Choice

The perception that we have a range of options, when in reality, the choices are limited and pre-determined by forces that benefit those in power.

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Three-Dimensional Power

A framework for understanding power beyond direct coercion. It encompasses structural power (invisible forces shaping possibilities), discursive power (influencing perceptions and beliefs), and the ability to exempt oneself from the limitations imposed on others.

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Discursive Power

The ability to shape how we think, what we value, and what we perceive as normal, thereby controlling our beliefs and limiting potential conflict.

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Sovereignty

The supreme authority and independent right to govern a territory. Historically rooted in religious and imperial claims, it evolved through treaties and international recognition.

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Doctrine of Discovery

A legal framework used by European empires to justify claiming ownership of lands inhabited by indigenous peoples, based on the idea that “uncivilized” lands could be claimed by Christian explorers.

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Indigenous Sovereignty

The inherent right of Indigenous peoples to self-determination and governance, rooted in their unique cultural practices, historical land rights, and ongoing struggles for recognition and autonomy.

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Reciprocity and Sustainability

Two core principles of Indigenous political-economic systems. Reciprocity emphasizes mutual exchange and obligation, while sustainability focuses on preserving resources for future generations.

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Treaties

Formal agreements between governments or nations, often establishing boundaries, rights, and responsibilities. In the context of Indigenous sovereignty, treaties recognize the distinct legal and political status of Indigenous nations.

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Constitutions as Nouns:

Constitutions are written or unwritten documents outlining fundamental rules of a state, often including rights. These documents serve as the supreme law of the land.

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Constitutions as Verbs:

Constitutions actively shape a state's structure. They empower governments, influence citizens' understanding of their rights, and can be interpreted and reinterpreted by judges and citizens.

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Supreme Law:

Constitutions are considered the highest legal authority within a state, superseding all other laws, traditions, or religious rules.

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Written Constitution:

A constitution codified in a document or set of documents. All other laws must align with its provisions, and it specifies procedures for changing the constitution (amendment process).

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Unwritten Constitution:

Constitutions not codified in a single document, relying primarily on established conventions and historical precedents. The British constitution is a prime example.

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Constitutional Conventions:

Principles or practices that aren't explicitly written in a legal document but are widely accepted as binding (e.g., the British monarch assenting to bills passed by Parliament).

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Historical Emergence:

Constitutions developed, particularly in the 18th century, as a reaction to existing power structures and influenced by Enlightenment ideas promoting individual rights and limited government.

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Contested Constitutions:

Constitutions are subject to ongoing interpretation and debate. Different groups may interpret their provisions in ways that benefit their interests, leading to conflict and change.

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Judicial Impartiality

The principle that judges should be unbiased and free from personal opinions or influences when making decisions. This is essential for fair and just court proceedings.

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Ensuring Impartiality

Methods to ensure impartiality include appointing judges based on their track record, providing a system for appeals, employing the adversarial procedure, and maintaining political neutrality.

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Judicial Independence

The separation of the judiciary from the executive and legislative branches, ensuring judges are not subject to political pressure or interference.

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Neutrality vs. Autonomy

Neutrality refers to the absence of bias, while autonomy implies freedom from external control. Both are crucial for judicial independence.

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Judicial Activism

A judicial approach where judges go beyond the literal text of the law to interpret its broader principles and achieve intended goals.

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Judicial Restraint

A judicial approach where judges focus strictly on the text of the law and existing precedents, minimizing their own interpretation.

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Appointment vs. Election

The debate over whether judges should be appointed by the government or elected by the people. Both methods have their own advantages and disadvantages in terms of ensuring independence and impartiality.

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Ford Staffers Case

A recent case where staff members of Ontario's Premier Ford were involved in the selection of judges, raising concerns about potential political influence over the judiciary.

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Study Notes

Midterm Review

  • Subjective understanding is shaped by individual mental states, while objective reality is independent of the mind
  • Neutrality is the avoidance of taking a position
  • "Argument to moderation" fallacy assumes truth lies between opposing perspectives
  • Objectivity is partial, every view is from a specific point of view (Haraway, 1988)
  • Power is not strength; it's the ability to shape others’ actions (Rousseau)
  • The State holds the legitimate use of physical force within a given territory (Weber)

Power

  • Power is the ability to shape others' actions
  • Lukes defines three dimensions of power:
    • One-dimensional power: directly imposing one's will on someone else's conduct (Weber, Dahl)
    • Restriction of freedom (Mill)
    • The ability to control the agenda, making others act in a way they would not otherwise
  • Overt exercise of power: direct control over citizens’ actions or freedom of movement.
  • Power is based on resources and mobilized by specific instruments
  • The scope of power is the probability that specific resources will work and the range of others' responses
  • Two dimensional power, shaping the agenda
  • Three Dimensional Power: Shaping the agenda, perceptions, cognitions, and preferences.

Indigenous Sovereignty and Treaty Making

  • Sovereignty is inherently God's, but executed by the king
  • The Peace of Westphalia recognized the full territorial sovereignty of member states
  • European imperialism and colonialism challenged existing concepts of sovereignty
  • The Doctrine of Discovery established European claims to lands outside of Europe
  • Indigenous sovereignty transcends nation-state borders, encompassing principles of reciprocity and sustainability.

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Poli Sci Notes Weeks 1-12 Midterm Review PDF

Description

This quiz covers key concepts in political theory, including subjective vs. objective understanding, neutrality, and different dimensions of power. It explores perspectives from notable theorists like Haraway, Rousseau, and Mill. Prepare for your exam with a comprehensive review of these crucial ideas.

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