PS 102 - Philippine Politics and Governance Introduction

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Questions and Answers

Which method is NOT typically used to acquire power in political systems?

Elections

Inheritance

Legislation (correct)

Force

In an autocratic political system, power is generally concentrated in the hands of whom?

A single ruler or a small group (correct)

Multiple competing parties

A diverse cabinet

A large electorate

Which of the following is a common strategy for maintaining power once it has been acquired?

Abandoning compliance measures

Building alliances (correct)

Decreasing transparency

Ignoring public opinion

What does the term 'oligarchy' refer to in political systems?

Power held by a small elite group Signup and view all the answers

Political behavior includes all of the following EXCEPT?

Lawsuit filing Signup and view all the answers

Which type of political system is characterized by free and fair elections?

Democracy Signup and view all the answers

What factor is considered important in analyzing political participation?

Voter turnout rates Signup and view all the answers

How is authority generally legitimized within a political system?

Based on established rules and structures Signup and view all the answers

What is a basic definition of politics according to Harold Lasswell?

The struggle of 'who gets what, when, and how.' Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT mentioned as a factor in political discussions among people?

Interest in political science Signup and view all the answers

In the context of political science, what core concept does the study of politics revolve around?

Struggles among interest groups and power dynamics. Signup and view all the answers

Which analogy is used to explain the common nature of political discussions?

Complaints about weather. Signup and view all the answers

What does Ayson suggest political science studies?

The study of the state and its various elements. Signup and view all the answers

Which aspect does NOT contribute to the core discussions of politics among people?

Professional knowledge in political science. Signup and view all the answers

How does politics manifest at a local level according to the content?

In the competition of interest groups over budgets. Signup and view all the answers

What is the importance of political science as suggested in the content?

It provides a theoretical framework for understanding political behavior. Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes a direct democracy from a representative democracy?

Citizens participate directly in decision-making in a direct democracy. Signup and view all the answers

Which principle is essential for preventing any single entity from gaining too much power in a democracy?

Separation of powers Signup and view all the answers

Which indicator of good governance ensures government officials are held accountable for their actions?

Accountability Signup and view all the answers

What role does transparency play in governance?

It allows citizens to understand government decisions and builds trust. Signup and view all the answers

The rule of law ensures that:

All individuals are subject to the law, promoting fairness. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary role of politics as described in the provided content?

To determine and allocate societal values through authoritative means Signup and view all the answers

According to Aristotle, what is essential for fulfilling human life?

The establishment of a political community or polis Signup and view all the answers

What does responsiveness in governance focus on?

Promptly serving the needs and concerns of the public. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a key indicator of good governance?

Popularity Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes authority from power in the context of politics?

Authority is the legitimate right to wield power, while power is the ability to influence behavior Signup and view all the answers

What is the main benefit of checks and balances in a governance system?

It ensures that government remains responsive to the needs of citizens. Signup and view all the answers

David Easton's definition emphasizes that politics involves making decisions on which values are prioritized. Which of the following is NOT one of the values mentioned?

Wealth Signup and view all the answers

Which statement best reflects the idea of humans as inherently political animals according to Aristotle?

Political engagement is necessary for pursuing virtue and a good life. Signup and view all the answers

How does politics shape the social and moral order according to the content?

By making authoritative decisions on the core values of society Signup and view all the answers

What role does the state play in the authoritative allocation of values?

The state backs the decisions that reflect societal values to ensure compliance Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the importance of power in politics?

Power enables leaders to manipulate societal values and enforce compliance Signup and view all the answers

What does equity and inclusiveness in governance aim to ensure?

All members of society can participate and benefit. Signup and view all the answers

Which concept emphasizes the optimization of resource use in governance?

Effectiveness and efficiency Signup and view all the answers

What is a key aspect of citizen participation in governance?

Active involvement in decision-making processes. Signup and view all the answers

What is the goal of consensus-oriented governance?

To mediate interests for broad policy agreements. Signup and view all the answers

How does politics influence governance?

By providing a framework for implementing policies. Signup and view all the answers

What role do political ideologies play in governance?

They influence governance practices significantly. Signup and view all the answers

What can the failure of a government's public service management directly affect?

Voter interests in future elections. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes effective governance?

Achieves policy goals while minimizing waste. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Learning Objectives

Define and differentiate politics, governance, and democracy.
Explain fundamental principles of democracy and its various forms.
Identify and analyze key indicators of good governance and their impact on political stability.

Definition of Politics

Harold Lasswell: Politics is the struggle over "who gets what, when, and how."
Politics is central to political science, reflecting daily discussions among individuals about policy and governance.
Ayson: Political science studies the state and its elements, including human behavior in political contexts.
David Easton: Politics is the "authoritative allocation of values," focusing on decision-making regarding societal values.
Aristotle: Humans are inherently social beings (political animals) who thrive in organized communities, where laws and collaboration promote virtue.

Aspects of Politics

Power and Authority: Power is the ability to influence behavior; authority is the legitimate right to wield power. Power can be acquired through elections, inheritance, or force.
Political Systems: Political power is organized in various frameworks such as democracy, autocracy, and oligarchy, influencing governance and decision-making mechanisms.
Political Behavior: Includes citizen actions such as voting and lobbying. It shapes public opinion and highlights the role of interest groups and media in politics.

Definition of Governance

Governance encompasses decision-making processes, either through direct or representative democracy, ensuring accountability through the separation of powers.

Indicators of Good Governance

Accountability: Government officials must be answerable for their actions, with mechanisms like audits and legal recourse for citizens.
Transparency: Governance processes must be open and accessible, helping to build trust with the public.
Rule of Law: All individuals and institutions must adhere to the law, ensuring fairness and protection of rights.
Responsiveness: Institutions should effectively address public needs and adapt to emerging challenges.
Equity and Inclusiveness: Governance must ensure participation opportunities for all, particularly vulnerable groups, promoting fair distribution of resources.
Effectiveness and Efficiency: Governance systems should achieve goals and deliver services using resources optimally.
Participation: Active citizen involvement in decision-making is vital for inclusive governance.
Consensus-Oriented: Governance should mediate interests to achieve broad agreements for community welfare.

Relationship between Politics and Governance

Politics involves decision-making affecting a group; governance is how those decisions are implemented.
Political processes like elections influence policy priorities that governance structures must follow.
Governance quality impacts political landscapes, shaping voter opinions and electoral outcomes.
Power dynamics and ideologies play crucial roles in shaping governance practices.

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Description

This quiz focuses on the basic concepts of politics, governance, and democracy as introduced in the PS 102 course. Students will explore the fundamental principles of democracy and identify key indicators of good governance. Test your knowledge and understanding of these vital topics in Philippine politics.