1: Shaping Society Together Flashcards
Why do we have rules in games?
To know what you can and cannot do
Rules ensure fair play and enable participation and enjoyment in the game.
What is the purpose of rules in a game?
To make the game fair by ensuring everyone follows the same rules
This allows for equal opportunities for all players.
What might happen if someone starts using different rules in a game?
It could lead to confusion and unfairness in the game
Different rules can disrupt the game flow and enjoyment.
Can rules ever be changed?
Yes, rules can be changed depending on the situation
For example, adapting rules to accommodate fewer players or younger children.
What might you do if you don’t have enough players to play soccer?
You might change the rules to allow fewer players or modify the game
This can include playing with fewer positions or simplifying the game.
How do rules for communities compare to rules for games?
They are similar in that everyone must learn and follow the rules
Community rules help maintain order and harmony, just like game rules do.
Fill in the blank: Rules let you know what you can and cannot do, making a game _______.
fair
True or False: Rules in games are only for competition and have no other purpose.
False
Rules also facilitate enjoyment and participation.
What is the definition of society?
A group of people who share the same government, rules, laws, interests, or culture
Society can encompass multiple smaller societies within a larger one, such as Canadian society.
What is the role of governments in modern democracies?
Governments have the authority to make decisions and pass laws
People vote for government representatives who enact these laws.
How do rules function in a society?
Rules guide how people act with one another and help resolve conflicts peacefully
Similar to games, rules are essential for maintaining order and cooperation.
What is a constitution?
The supreme law of the land that outlines the structure of government and the rights of the people
In Canada, the Constitution is the most important legal document.
What values and principles are Canadian laws based on?
Equality, justice, respect for cultural differences, freedom, peace, equity, and fairness
These shared values help shape the legal framework of the society.
Who has the power to make decisions about laws in a democracy?
The people have the power to make decisions about laws
This is achieved through voting and electing representatives.
How did decision-making work in ancient Greece’s democracy?
Citizens would get together to discuss and vote on laws
This direct form of democracy differs from modern representative democracies.
Fill in the blank: The basic rules in Canada are found in the _______.
[Constitution]
True or False: In Canada, people have the power to elect representatives who make laws.
True
What are some examples of where rules apply in society?
Home, school, community, and country
Rules are essential in various environments to ensure social order.
What challenges might arise in decision-making in a large democracy like Canada?
Difficulty in getting millions of people to agree on laws
This complexity contrasts with smaller societies or groups.
What contributes to individual identity in Canadian society?
Group belonging, heritage, traditions, and family histories.
Who qualifies as a member of Canadian society?
All people who make up communities across Canada.
What must individuals do to become Canadian citizens if they move from other countries?
Apply for citizenship.
What rights and responsibilities do Canadian citizens have?
Voting and fulfilling duties as a citizen.
What is the Oath of Citizenship in Canada?
An affirmation of allegiance to the Queen and observance of Canadian laws.
In which languages can the Oath of Citizenship be taken?
English or French.
What does the term ‘citizen’ encompass?
A person born in a country or someone who moves there and obtains citizenship.
What rights do citizens have that non-citizens do not?
The right to vote.
What does it mean to contribute to society as a citizen?
Playing a part in improving people’s lives or the environment.
Fill in the blank: A citizen is someone who lives in a particular place such as a _______.
city or town.
In which years were there proposals to change the Oath of Citizenship?
1995 and 1998.
What should be compared when researching the Oath of Citizenship?
The other oaths and the present oath.
What is a key democratic value reflected in the Oath of Citizenship?
Allegiance to the country and its laws.
What are some ways that government helps people in your community?
Protects freedom of expression, provides leases for gas and oil exploration
These actions illustrate how government facilitates economic activity and individual rights.
What is the purpose of government?
To ensure that people in a society have safe, comfortable lives
How do laws help society?
They help society run peacefully
What services does government provide?
Food, shelter, schools, hospitals, libraries, courts of law, police, public transportation, community centres, services for seniors
Why was government created?
To have a structure to take care of the needs of everyone in society
What rights and freedoms does government protect in a democracy?
Freedom of religion, right to be considered innocent until proven guilty
What role does government play in leadership?
Takes actions that affect society, including decisions about the environment and resources
Fill in the blank: The government provides _______ to meet the needs of its citizens.
[services]
True or False: The government is responsible for providing food and shelter to all individuals.
True
What do representatives of the people do?
Make decisions on our behalf regarding community issues
Examples include decisions about public facilities, schools, and licensing fees.
Why do governments need to listen to the people?
To make good decisions based on the needs and wants of the community
Governments rely on public input for effective governance.
What is a responsibility of the people concerning the government?
To inform the government of their needs and wants
Citizens must communicate their viewpoints to help guide governmental decisions.
What role does individual opinion play in a democracy?
Every individual matters and has a role to play
Contributions from all citizens are essential for a functional democracy.
What is one of a citizen’s responsibilities in a democracy?
Voting
Voting is a fundamental way for citizens to express their opinions and influence government actions.
What should individuals do when they see discrimination and injustice?
Speak out
It is the responsibility of citizens to address and combat social injustices.
What is a communal responsibility of citizens?
Help others in the community
Active participation in community support is a key aspect of responsible citizenship.
What is one key responsibility of citizenship related to government feedback?
Let the government know what you think
Citizen feedback is crucial for responsive governance.
What do responsible citizens do in relation to laws?
Obey the laws
Law obedience is a fundamental expectation of responsible citizenship.
What is democracy about?
People feeling that their voice makes a difference.
Maude Barlow and Bruce Campbell, Canadian activists emphasize the significance of individual voices in a democracy.
Define an injustice.
An action that is not fair.
Injustices can manifest in various forms within society.
Why is it important to contribute to society?
To become involved in actions that benefit others in the community and to learn about issues.
Contribution can take many forms, including community service and advocacy.
What are some ways individuals can contribute to society?
- Becoming involved in community actions
- Learning about local issues
- Forming groups to work towards goals
- Supporting government actions
Contributions can vary widely depending on community needs.
What might be a community issue related to schools?
The use of cellphones.
This issue often leads to differing opinions among those affected.
What can happen when people become informed about an issue?
They may want to become more active.
Informed citizens often seek to address issues through action.
What is an example of a goal a community group might pursue?
- Installing street lights at a dangerous corner
- Creating a law against dangerous animals
- Asking the government to correct past injustices
These goals reflect community safety and justice concerns.
What is an example of government action that some citizens might support?
A curfew imposed by local government.
In some communities in Alberta, young people under 16 are restricted from being on the streets without an adult after certain hours.
Fill in the blank: An injustice is an action that is not _______.
[fair]
What are the characteristics of a democracy?
Research needed from at least three different sources.
Group activity to identify and rank characteristics of democracy.
What should groups do after listing the characteristics of democracy?
Compare lists with another group and explain rankings.
This encourages discussion and deeper understanding.
What type of issues might exist in a community?
Various social, economic, and environmental issues.
Community issues can range from local safety to resource management.
