AP Comparative Government and Politics Ultimate Guide (copy) Notes PDF

Core Course Countries insights into broader political trends....

Core Course Countries insights into broader political trends. Quantitative Analysis: Political scientists use these to analyze large amounts of data. This approach allows them to identify patterns and trends in political behavior and United Kingdom institutions. The UK has a parliamentary system of government with a constitutional monarchy. Political scientists study a wide range of topics related to politics and government. AP Comparative Government and It is a member of the European Union and has a strong tradition of democracy and rule of law. Political Theory: The study of political ideas and concepts. Political scientists in this field examine the philosophical foundations of political systems and institutions. Politics Ultimate Guide (copy) Russia Russia has a federal semi-presidential republic system of government. Comparative Politics: The study of different political systems and institutions around the world. Political scientists in this field compare and contrast different political It has a strong centralized government and a history of authoritarianism. Unit 1: Political Systems, Regimes, and systems to identify similarities and differences. It is also a major player in international politics. International Relations: The study of the relationships between different countries Governments Iran and the ways in which they interact with each other. Political scientists in this field examine issues such as diplomacy, war, and trade. Iran has an Islamic republic system of government. Public Policy: The study of how governments make decisions and implement policies. It is a theocracy with a supreme leader and a president. 1.1: The Practice of Political Scientists It has a complex relationship with the international community due to its nuclear Political scientists in this field examine the ways in which policies are created and how they affect society. program and support for militant groups. Key Terms Mexico Mexico has a federal presidential representative democratic republic system of 1.2: Defining Political Institutions Empirical Data: Information gathered through observation, experimentation, or other forms of government. data collection. It has a history of corruption and drug violence, but has made progress in recent years Key Terms Normative Data: Data that represents typical or average performance or behavior within a towards reform and strengthening its democracy. specific population. China Political Systems: Refers to the set of institutions, laws, and procedures that are used to govern a Quantitative Analysis: The use of mathematical and statistical methods to analyze numerical China has a single-party socialist republic system of government. country or a group of people. It includes the distribution of power, decision-making processes, data. It has a strong centralized government and a mixed economy. and the relationship between the government and its citizens. Qualitative Analysis: The use of non-numerical data such as interviews, observations, and It is also a major player in international politics and has been criticized for its human States: A political entity that has a defined territory, a permanent population, a government, and surveys to analyze and interpret patterns and themes. rights record. the ability to enter into relations with other states. Correlation: A statistical measure that indicates the degree to which two variables are related to Nigeria Regime: Refers to the set of rules, institutions, and practices that govern a country or a political each other. Nigeria has a federal presidential representative democratic republic system of system. It includes the type of government, the distribution of power, and the relationship Positive Correlation: A relationship between two variables in which an increase in one variable is government. between the government and its citizens. associated with an increase in the other variable. It has a history of political instability and corruption, but has made progress in recent Government: Refers to the group of people who are responsible for making and enforcing laws Negative Correlation: A relationship between two variables in which an increase in one variable years towards reform and strengthening its democracy. and policies in a country or a political system. It includes the executive, legislative, and judicial is associated with a decrease in the other variable. It is also a major player in African politics. branches. Causation: A relationship between two variables in which one variable directly influences or Nation: Refers to a group of people who share a common culture, language, history, or identity. causes a change in the other variable. It can also refer to a political entity that is based on a shared sense of identity. Human Development Index (HDI): A composite statistic of life expectancy, education, and per The Practice of Political Scientists capita income indicators, which are used to rank countries into four tiers of human development. Gini Index: A measure of income inequality within a population, ranging from 0 (perfect equality) Political scientists: These are professionals who study political systems, behavior, and institutions. Institution Examples to 1 (perfect inequality). They use various methods to analyze and interpret political phenomena, and their Term UK Russia China Iran Mexico Nigeria Gross Domestic Product (GDP): The total value of goods and services produced within a work is essential for understanding how governments and societies function. country's borders in a given time period. Political Democracy Constitution CCP and/or Theocracy Constitutional Constitutional Political scientists use a variety of research methods to gather data and analyze political Freedom House: An organization that conducts research and advocacy on democracy, political phenomena. System Authoritarian Authoritarian and/or Democracy Democracy freedom, and human rights. Authoritarian Surveys: Political scientists use this to gather information about public opinion, voting Transparency International: An organization that monitors and publicizes corporate and behavior, and other political attitudes and behaviors. Regime Democratic Authoritarian Authoritarian Authoritarian Emerging Emerging political corruption in international development. Interviews: They may conduct this with politicians, government officials, or other Democracy Democracy Failed (or Fragile) States Index: An annual ranking of countries based on their vulnerability to experts in the field. conflict and instability, as well as their capacity to provide basic services and maintain the rule of Government Unitary, but Federal but Unitary Unitary Federal Federal Case Studies: Political scientists use these to examine specific political events or law. turning more asymmetric phenomena in detail. This method involves analyzing a single case in depth to gain federal Presidential democracy: A form of democracy in which the president is both the head of state Factors that contribute to democratization and the head of government. The president is elected by the people and has significant powers, Nation Scottish, Irish Russian, Han Chinese, Persians, Mestizo Hausa, Yoruba including the power to veto legislation. Chechan Tibetans Azeris Economic development: Countries with higher levels of economic development are more likely Parliamentary democracy: A form of democracy in which the parliament is the primary decision- to democratize. This is because economic growth creates a middle class that demands greater making body. The prime minister is the head of government, while the monarch or president is political representation and accountability. the head of state. 1.3: Democracy vs. Authoritarianism International pressure: International organizations and other countries can exert pressure on Semi-presidential democracy: A form of democracy in which the president and prime minister authoritarian regimes to democratize. This can take the form of economic sanctions, diplomatic share power. The president is the head of state, while the prime minister is the head of Key Characteristics government. isolation, or military intervention. Civil society: A strong civil society can help to promote democratization by advocating for Consensus democracy: A form of democracy in which decisions are made through consensus political reform and holding governments accountable. Democracy rather than majority vote. This is often used in countries with diverse populations or in situations where there is a need for compromise. Power is held by the people through free and fair elections Protection of individual rights and freedoms Hybrid democracy: A form of democracy that combines elements of different types of Challenges to democratization democratic regimes. This is often seen in countries that are transitioning from authoritarianism to Rule of law and independent judiciary democracy. Transparency and accountability in government Elite resistance: The ruling elite may resist democratization because it threatens their power and Civil society and freedom of the press privileges. Authoritarianism 1.4: Democratization Ethnic and religious divisions: Countries with deep ethnic or religious divisions may struggle to establish a democratic system that is inclusive and representative of all groups. Power is held by a single leader or small group Weak institutions: Democratization requires the establishment of strong democratic institutions, Limited or no protection of individual rights and freedoms Democratization: The process of transitioning a government from an authoritarian regime to a such as an independent judiciary and a free press. However, in many countries, these institutions Rule by force or coercion democratic one. are weak or non-existent. Lack of transparency and accountability in government It involves the establishment of democratic institutions, such as free and fair elections, an independent judiciary, and a free press. Suppression of civil society and freedom of the press It is a complex and often difficult process that can take many years to achieve. Democracy: Advancements and Regression Types of Authoritarian Regimes Advancements Characteristics of Democracy Expansion of Suffrage: The right to vote has been extended to more people over 1. Monarchies: These are regimes in which power is held by a hereditary monarch or royal family. time. Initially, only white male property owners could vote, but now, women, Examples include Saudi Arabia and Brunei. Popular Sovereignty: The ultimate power lies with the people who elect their representatives to minorities, and non-property owners can also vote. govern them. 2. Military Juntas: These are regimes in which power is held by a group of military officers who Protection of Civil Liberties: Democracies have made significant progress in have seized control of the government. Examples include Myanmar and Egypt. Free and Fair Elections: Elections are conducted in a free and fair manner, where every citizen protecting civil liberties such as freedom of speech, press, and religion. These liberties has the right to vote and contest elections. 3. Single-Party States: These are regimes in which power is held by a single political party that are essential for the functioning of a democratic society. controls all aspects of government. Examples include China and North Korea. Rule of Law: The government is bound by the law and is accountable to the people. No one is Transparency and Accountability: Democracies have become more transparent and above the law, including the government. 4. Personalist Regimes: These are regimes in which power is held by a single individual who accountable. Governments are expected to be open about their actions, and citizens dominates the political system. Examples include Russia under Vladimir Putin and Turkey under Protection of Individual Rights: Democracy ensures the protection of individual rights and have the right to access information. Additionally, governments are held accountable Recep Tayyip Erdogan. freedoms, such as freedom of speech, religion, and association. through elections and other mechanisms. 5. Theocracies: These are regimes in which power is held by religious leaders or institutions. Separation of Powers: The government is divided into three branches - the legislature, the Regression Examples include Iran and Saudi Arabia. executive, and the judiciary - to ensure a system of checks and balances. Erosion of Civil Liberties: In some countries, civil liberties have been eroded, and the 6. Hybrid Regimes: These are regimes that combine elements of authoritarianism and democracy. Independent Judiciary: The judiciary is independent of the other branches of government and government has become more authoritarian. This can be seen in the restriction of Examples include Russia and Venezuela. ensures that the law is upheld. freedom of speech, press, and assembly. Civilian Control of the Military: The military is subordinate to civilian authority and does not Corruption: Corruption is a significant problem in some democracies. It undermines interfere in the political process. the legitimacy of the government and reduces public trust in democratic institutions. Types of Democratic Regimes Transparency and Accountability: The government is transparent in its actions and accountable Rise of Populism: Populism is a political ideology that emphasizes the interests of the to the people for its decisions. common people over those of the elites. While populism can be a positive force in Direct democracy: A form of democracy in which citizens directly participate in the decision- Pluralism and Diversity: Democracy respects and values diversity and pluralism, including democracy, it can also lead to the erosion of democratic institutions and the making process. This is typically done through referendums or other forms of direct voting. diversity of opinions, beliefs, and cultures. concentration of power in the hands of a few. Representative democracy: A form of democracy in which citizens elect representatives to make Active Citizen Participation: Democracy encourages active citizen participation in the political decisions on their behalf. This is the most common form of democracy in the world. process, including the right to protest and petition the government. Democratic Waves  Democratic waves: Refer to the periods in history when there is a significant increase in the Its current political system was established in 1917 with the adoption of the Mexican They serve as a source of power in politics by providing a means of coercion and number of countries that transition to democracy. Constitution, which created a federal system of government with three branches: defense, and by influencing foreign policy decisions. These waves are characterized by a sudden and widespread shift towards democratic executive, legislative, and judicial. For example, the United States military is one of the most powerful in the world, and governance, often following a period of authoritarian rule. Nigeria its actions have had significant political consequences in conflicts such as the Vietnam Democratic waves are often triggered by a major event, such as the collapse of a dictatorship or Nigeria is a federal presidential representative democratic republic. War and the Iraq War. the end of a war. Its current political system was established in 1999 with the adoption of the Nigerian Legislature They are characterized by a rapid increase in the number of countries that transition to Constitution, which created a federal system of government with three branches: A governing body responsible for making laws and policies. democracy. executive, legislative, and judicial. It serves as a source of power in politics by representing the interests of different Democratic waves tend to be regional in nature, with neighboring countries often following the China groups within a society, and by providing a means of checks and balances on the lead of one another. China is a one-party socialist state, with the Communist Party of China holding a power of other branches of government. They are often accompanied by a rise in civil society activism and the emergence of new political monopoly on political power. For example, the British Parliament is composed of the House of Commons and the parties. The country's political system is based on a combination of Marxist-Leninist ideology House of Lords, and is responsible for passing laws and holding the government and traditional Chinese political culture. accountable. Iran Popular Support First Democratic Wave (1828-1926) Iran is an Islamic republic with a theocratic political system. The level of public approval or endorsement for a particular political leader, party, or policy. The country's political system is based on the principles of Shia Islam, with ultimate The first wave of democratization occurred in the 19th century and early 20th century. authority vested in the Supreme Leader, who is the highest-ranking political and It serves as a source of power in politics by providing legitimacy and a mandate for It was characterized by the establishment of democratic regimes in Europe and North America. action, and by influencing the outcomes of elections and other political processes. religious figure in the country. The first wave ended with the rise of fascism and communism in the 1920s and 1930s. For example, the election of Barack Obama as President of the United States in 2008 Russia was largely due to his ability to mobilize popular support among young people and Russia is a federal semi-presidential republic. Its current political system was minority groups. Second Democratic Wave (1943-1962) established in 1993 with the adoption of the Russian Constitution, which created a federal system of government with three branches: executive, legislative, and judicial. The second wave of democratization occurred after World War II. The President is the head of state and the Prime Minister is the head of government. Changes in Source of Power It was characterized by the establishment of democratic regimes in Western Europe and Japan. The second wave ended with the rise of military dictatorships in Latin America and elsewhere. The Different Sources of Power United Kingdom Historically, the source of power in the UK has been the monarchy. Constitution However, over time, power has shifted to the elected government, particularly the Third Democratic Wave (1974-2006) Prime Minister and their cabinet. A set of fundamental principles and rules that govern a country or organization. The UK operates as a parliamentary democracy, with power ultimately resting with the It serves as a source of power in politics by establishing the framework for the The third wave of democratization occurred in the 1970s and 1980s. people through their elected representatives. distribution of power and the protection of individual rights. It was characterized by the establishment of democratic regimes in Southern Europe, Latin Russia For example, the United States Constitution outlines the separation of powers America, and parts of Asia and Africa. In Russia, power has historically been concentrated in the hands of the ruling elite, between the executive, legislative, and judicial branches of government, and The third wave ended with the rise of authoritarianism in Russia and other countries. guarantees certain rights such as freedom of speech and religion. whether it be the Tsar, Communist Party, or current President Vladimir Putin. Religion Putin has centralized power in the presidency, with the parliament and judiciary largely subservient to his rule. 1.5: Sources of and Changes in Power and Authority A system of beliefs and practices concerning the nature of the divine and the purpose Critics argue that Putin's regime is authoritarian and undemocratic. of human existence. It serves as a source of power in politics by influencing the values and beliefs of China Brief History of Each Course Country individuals and communities, and by providing a basis for moral and ethical decision- In China, power is held by the Communist Party, with the General Secretary serving as making. the most powerful figure. United Kingdom For example, the Catholic Church has historically wielded significant political power in The National People's Congress serves as the country's top legislative body, but its The United Kingdom is a constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary democracy. countries such as Italy and Spain, and religious groups have played a role in shaping power is largely symbolic. Its political system has evolved over centuries, with the monarch's role becoming policies on issues such as abortion and same-sex marriage. Critics argue that China's one-party system is undemocratic and suppresses dissent. largely ceremonial and the Prime Minister and Parliament holding most of the power. Military Forces Iran Mexico Organized groups of armed individuals who are trained to defend a country or In Iran, power is held by the Supreme Leader, who is appointed for life and serves as Mexico is a federal presidential representative democratic republic. organization. the highest authority in the country. The President and parliament also hold significant power, but ultimately defer to the Unitary System Rational-legal legitimacy: Based on the belief that the government has the right to rule because Supreme Leader. it was established through a legal process, such as a constitution or election. This is often Critics argue that Iran's system is undemocratic and suppresses dissent. associated with modern democracies. A unitary system is a type of government where power is centralized in a single national Mexico government. In Mexico, power is held by the President, who serves as both the head of state and In a unitary system, the national government has complete control over all aspects of 1.8: Sustaining Legitimacy government. government and can delegate power to regional governments as it sees fit. The country operates as a federal republic, with power also held by the legislature and Examples of countries with a unitary system include France, Japan, and the United Kingdom. judiciary. Good governance: It is the foundation of legitimacy. A government that is transparent, accountable, and responsive to the needs of its citizens is more likely to be accepted as Critics argue that corruption and violence have undermined Mexico's democratic Benefits of a Unitary System legitimate. It involves the rule of law, respect for human rights, and the provision of basic services institutions. such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure. Nigeria Economic development: It is another critical factor in sustaining legitimacy. A government that In Nigeria, power is held by the President, who serves as both the head of state and Efficient governance: A unitary system allows for efficient governance as all decisions are made can provide jobs, reduce poverty, and improve the standard of living of its citizens is more likely government. by a single governing body. This eliminates the need for coordination between different levels of to be accepted as legitimate. Economic development requires investment in infrastructure, government, which can often lead to delays and inefficiencies. The country operates as a federal republic, with power also held by the legislature and education, and healthcare, as well as the creation of an enabling environment for businesses to judiciary. Uniformity: A unitary system ensures uniformity in laws and policies across the country. This is thrive. because the national government has the power to make and enforce laws that are applicable to Critics argue that corruption and ethnic tensions have undermined Nigeria's Political participation: This is essential for sustaining legitimacy. A government that allows all regions. democratic institutions. citizens to participate in decision-making, holds free and fair elections, and respects the rights of Flexibility: A unitary system allows for greater flexibility in responding to crises and emergencies. opposition parties is more likely to be accepted as legitimate. Political participation also involves The national government can quickly mobilize resources and take action without having to wait the protection of civil society organizations and the media. 1.6: Federal and Unitary Systems for approval from lower levels of government. Communication: This is crucial for sustaining legitimacy. A government that communicates its Cost-effective: A unitary system can be more cost-effective than a federal system as there is no policies and decisions clearly and honestly to its citizens is more likely to be accepted as duplication of services or resources. This is because the national government is responsible for Federal System legitimate. Communication involves engaging with citizens through various channels, including providing all essential services. social media, town hall meetings, and public consultations. Greater accountability: A unitary system ensures greater accountability as the national Accountability: Finally, accountability is essential for sustaining legitimacy. A government that is A federal system is a type of government where power is divided between a central government government is responsible for all decisions and actions. This makes it easier for citizens to hold and smaller regional governments. accountable to its citizens for its actions and decisions is more likely to be accepted as legitimate. their government accountable for its actions. Accountability involves the establishment of independent institutions such as the judiciary, the In a federal system, the central government has limited power and the regional governments auditor general's office, and the ombudsman to hold the government accountable. have more autonomy. Examples of countries with a federal system include the United States, Canada, and Australia. Key Differences Losing Legitimacy Benefits of a Federal System In a federal system, power is shared between the central and regional governments, while in a unitary system, power is centralized in the national government. Legitimacy is the belief of the people that the government has the right to rule. When a In a federal system, regional governments have more autonomy and can make decisions on government loses legitimacy, it means that the people no longer believe that it has the right to Promotes Local Autonomy: In a federal system, power is shared between the central certain issues, while in a unitary system, regional governments have limited power and can only govern. government and the states. This allows for local autonomy, which means that states can make make decisions delegated to them by the national government. decisions that are best suited for their citizens. This can happen for various reasons, including: Federal systems are often used in countries with diverse populations and regions, while unitary Encourages Diversity: A federal system allows for diversity in governance. States can experiment Corruption: When the government officials are involved in corrupt practices, such as systems are often used in countries with a more homogenous population. with different policies and laws, which can lead to innovation and progress. embezzlement, bribery, or nepotism, it can erode the trust of the people in the government. Reduces the Risk of Tyranny: A federal system reduces the risk of tyranny by limiting the power of the central government. The states act as a check on the power of the central government, 1.7: Political Legitimacy Incompetence: When the government fails to deliver basic services, such as which prevents it from becoming too powerful. healthcare, education, or infrastructure, it can lead to frustration and anger among the people. Increases Citizen Participation: A federal system encourages citizen participation in Political legitimacy: The acceptance of the authority of a government or governing body by the Violations of human rights: When the government violates the basic human rights of government. Citizens can participate in both state and federal elections, which gives them a people it governs. It is the belief that the government has the right to rule and that its actions are its citizens, such as freedom of speech, assembly, or religion, it can lead to protests greater voice in the political process. justified. and civil unrest. Provides for Efficient Governance: A federal system allows for efficient governance. The central Traditional legitimacy: Based on the belief that the government has the right to rule because it Election fraud: When the government manipulates the election process, such as government can focus on issues that affect the entire country, while the states can focus on has always done so. This is often associated with monarchies and other hereditary systems. rigging the votes or suppressing the opposition, it can undermine the legitimacy of issues that are specific to their region. Charismatic legitimacy: Based on the personal qualities of a leader, such as their charisma, the government. vision, or ability to inspire. This is often associated with revolutionary or populist movements.  The consequences of losing legitimacy can be severe. It can lead to protests, strikes, and even violent uprisings. It can also lead to a loss of international support and aid, which can further weaken the government's ability to govern. 1.9: Political Stability Political stability: The ability of a government to maintain its power and control over a country without facing any significant internal or external threats. It is an essential factor for the economic and social development of a nation. Importance of Political Stability Political stability is crucial for a country's economic growth and development. It creates a favorable environment for businesses to invest and operate, which leads to job creation and increased economic activity. It also helps to maintain social order and security, which is essential for the well-being of citizens. Factors Affecting Political Stability Economic Factors High unemployment rates Inflation Income inequality Poverty Corruption Social Factors Ethnic and religious tensions Political polarization Social inequality Lack of access to education and healthcare Environmental Factors Natural disasters Climate change Environmental degradation Role of Government The government must ensure that it provides basic services to its citizens, such as education, healthcare, and security. It must also create an environment that promotes economic growth and development, which can reduce poverty and unemployment rates. The government must be transparent and accountable to its citizens, and it must address corruption and other forms of malfeasance.