Chapter 1.1 (The Role of Government)

Question 1

Define politics.

Answer 1

Politics is the act of making shared public decisions and the modification of our political and legal structures.

Question 2

Define government.

Answer 2

Government is a term that encompasses our political and legal structures and their powers.

Question 3

What are the four major roles of government?

Answer 3

1. The provision of public goods and services
2. The regulation of business activity
3. The redistribution of income
4. Macroeconomic management

Question 4

What is statute law?

Answer 4

Statute law is made by both federal and state parliaments and this power can also be delegated to authorities such as local councils.

Question 5

What is common law?

Answer 5

Common law is made when judges make rulings on areas that statute law doesn’t cover, establishing precedents.

Question 6

What are the three branches of government? (Separation of powers)

Answer 6

1. Legislative function (make laws)
2. Executive function (administer the law)
3. Judicial function (enforce the law)