The Basics
What is a government?
An institution through which leaders exercise power to make and enforce laws affecting the people under its control.
What distinguishes a nation from a state or country?
Nation - A group of people who believe themselves united by a common bond such as race, language, custom, religion.
State/Country - A political community that occupies a definite territory and has an organized government.
Citizen participation is a key principle of democracy. Give 3 examples of how citizens participate in government (national, state, or local.)
Examples include voting, engaging in political discussion, activism, etc.
There are main types of economic systems - what are they?
Socialism
Capitalism
Why do we have government?
To prevent anarchy.
There are 4 theories on the origin of the state. Which theory is American government based upon?
Social contract theory
What does accountability refer to in a democratic government?
The ability of leaders to provide an ACCOUNT for why a law or decision is necessary or just.
What type of economic system does the US have?
Capitalist
List 2 of the 5 functions of government.
Provide leadership; Maintain order; Provide public services; Provide national security; and Provide economic security & economic assistance
The American government is a constitutional government. List 1 of the 3 purposes of a constitutional government.
Sets out shared beliefs and ideals; Establishes structures and powers within the government; Acts as the supreme law of the land.
What are the benefits of having competing political parties?
Answers may vary.
What is another term for capitalist economic systems?
Free-market economy
Governments have 5 primary functions. Choose one and give an example of how the US Government carries out that function.
Answers vary.
There are 3 systems of government. List each system and name which one the American government uses.
Confederate; Unitary; and Federal.
American government = federal
What are the disadvantages of having 2 competing political parties?
Answers may vary.
What are 2 key characteristics of capitalism?
Free-market economy (less government regulation)
Drive by competition
Most enterprises are privately owned
What is the common good?
A general set of beliefs about what is beneficial for all citizens within a nation.
The 3 major types of government are: Authoritarian, Monarchy, and Democracy.
Democracy.
What do individual rights & human rights mean to you?
Answers will vary.
What is a disadvantage of having a capitalist system?
Answers will vary