Forms of Government
What does autocracy mean?
Rule by one person
Which philosopher thought people were selfish and needed a strong ruler?
Hobbes – people are selfish and need strong rulers
Citizens vote on every law themselves — what kind of government is this?
Direct Democracy
What does anarchy mean?
Anarchy – no government, chaos
How is a monarchy different from a dictatorship?
Monarch inherit power; dictators take power by force.
Who believed people are born with natural rights — life, liberty, and property?
Locke – people have natural rights: life, liberty, property
A country is ruled by a king who inherited power. What government is that?
Monarchy
Which form of government gives citizens the most voice in decisions?
Democracy – citizens have the most voice
What does democracy mean?
Rule by the people through voting.
Why did Hobbes think a monarchy was the best form of government?
Hobbes – monarchy brings stability and control
A small group of wealthy people controls the country. What form of government is this?
Oligarchy
Which form of government has one ruler who shares power with no one else?
Autocracy – one ruler with total control
How is oligarchy different from democracy?
few rule vs. all citizens having a voice.
What did Locke believe should happen if a government doesn’t protect people’s rights?
Locke – people can revolt if government fails to protect rights
The government uses religious beliefs to make laws. What type of government is this?
Theocracy
What makes representative democracy different from direct democracy?
Representative Democracy – people elect leaders to make decisions
Both Hobbes and Locke believed people agreed to be ruled — but what key idea did Locke add that Hobbes did not?
The right to revolt if the government fails to protect people’s natural rights.