Chapter 1

Question 1

Democracy

Answer 1

A form of government in which the people hold power, either by acting directly or through elected representatives.

Question 2

Republic

Answer 2

A government in which citizens rule indirectly and make government decisions through their elected representatives.

Question 3

Checks and Balances

Answer 3

The principle is that each branch of government has the authority to block the other branches, limiting the power of any one branch or individual. This system makes passing legislation far more difficult in the United States than in most other democracies.

Question 4

Institutions

Answer 4

The organizations, norms, and rules that structure government and public action.

Question 5

Rational Choice Theory

Answer 5

An approach to political behavior that views individuals as rational, decisive actors who know their political interests and seek to act on them.

Question 6

Public-Private Partnership

Answer 6

A government program or service provided through the joint efforts of private sector actors (usually businesses) and public officals.