Questions and Answers
What does traditional democratic theory state?
Government depends upon the consent of the governed
What is pluralist theory?
A theory of government and politics emphasizing that politics is mainly a competition among groups, each one pressing for its own preferred policies.
What does elite theory contend?
A theory of government and politics contending that societies are divided along class lines and that an upper-class elite will rule, regardless of the formal niceties of governmental organization.
What is the bureaucratic theory?
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What does hyperpluralism suggest?
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Study Notes
Theories of Democratic Government
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Traditional Democratic Theory: Asserts that legitimate government authority stems from the consent of the people, emphasizing the principle of popular sovereignty.
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Pluralist Theory: Highlights a political landscape where multiple interest groups compete for influence and policy advantages, suggesting that this competition leads to compromise and representation.
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Elite Theory: Argues that a small, upper-class elite exercises power and control over society, shaping policy and governance despite democratic frameworks.
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Bureaucratic Theory: Proposed by Max Weber, this theory posits that the formal hierarchy and standardized procedures within government bureaucracies result in bureaucrats wielding real authority over public policy decisions.
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Hyperpluralism: Claims that the proliferation of strong interest groups can lead to governmental paralysis, where the excessive influence of these groups weakens overall government effectiveness and decision-making.
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Description
This quiz consists of flashcards covering key theories of democratic government, including traditional democratic theory, pluralist theory, and elite theory. Each card presents a definition to enhance your understanding of these concepts and their implications in politics.