Exam Rivison Flashcards
Explain the legislature
The legislature is the branch of government responsible for making and changing laws. It is usually divided into two parts: the upper house (like the Senate) and the lower house (like the House of Representatives). In a bicameral system (two houses), both houses must approve a law before it becomes official. The lower house often represents the general population, while the upper house may represent states or regions. Some countries have a unicameral system with only one house. Members of the legislature are usually elected by the people, and their job is to debate, create, and vote on laws, as well as oversee the government’s work to ensure accountability.
In simple terms explain the terms ‘insitutions’
Institutions are the rules, systems, and organizations that shape how society works. They can be formal, like governments, schools, and courts, or informal, like traditions, family structures, or cultural norms. Institutions provide structure and help people cooperate by setting expectations for behavior. For example, legal institutions like courts ensure justice, while educational institutions like schools teach knowledge and skills. They play a key role in maintaining order, stability, and progress in society by guiding how people interact with each other and with the community.
What is nationalism
Nationalism is the belief that people who share a common culture, language, or history should be united as a single nation. It often involves strong pride and loyalty toward one’s country and the idea that the nation’s interests are more important than those of other countries.
What does development mean
Development refers to the process of improving the quality of life and economic well-being of people in a society. It often involves increasing income, education, healthcare, and infrastructure. Essentially, it’s about making progress and creating better living conditions for individuals and communities.
What is the purpose of international relations
The purpose of international relations is to manage and understand the interactions between countries. It involves cooperation, negotiation, and conflict resolution to address global issues such as trade, security, human rights, and environmental challenges. Through diplomacy and dialogue, countries work to establish agreements and foster peaceful relationships. International relations also help nations to pursue their interests while balancing power dynamics, ensuring stability, and promoting mutual understanding among diverse cultures and societies. Ultimately, the goal is to create a more interconnected and peaceful world.
What do international relations aim to do and understand about the world?
International relations aim to understand how countries interact with one another and the factors that influence these relationships. They seek to explain why nations cooperate, compete, or come into conflict and how these dynamics affect global stability and peace. By studying international relations, we can learn about issues like trade agreements, security alliances, and human rights practices. This field also examines the impact of global events, such as wars, economic crises, or environmental challenges, on different countries. Ultimately, international relations aim to promote better communication and cooperation among nations, helping to build a more peaceful and prosperous world for everyone.
What do ngos do
Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) are groups that operate independently from governments and focus on addressing social, environmental, or humanitarian issues. Their work can include a wide range of activities, such as providing aid to people in need, promoting human rights, advocating for environmental protection, and supporting education and health initiatives. NGOs often conduct research, raise awareness, and lobby for policy changes to help improve conditions in communities around the world. They may work locally, nationally, or globally, and rely on donations, grants, and volunteers to carry out their missions. Ultimately, NGOs aim to make a positive impact on society and help create a better world for everyone.
In order for an democracy to be functioning needs to be protected?
For a democracy to function effectively, it is essential to protect individual rights and freedoms, such as freedom of speech, assembly, and the press, which allow citizens to express their opinions and engage in political processes without fear. The rule of law must be upheld, ensuring that laws apply equally to everyone, including government officials, to prevent arbitrary actions by the state. Political pluralism is also vital, encouraging a diversity of political parties and viewpoints to prevent any single group from monopolizing power. Additionally, free and fair elections must be conducted transparently, safeguarding against voter suppression and election fraud. An independent judiciary is crucial for administering justice and protecting rights, while active civic engagement fosters a sense of responsibility and connection among citizens. Together, these elements create a robust democratic environment where individuals can participate and hold their government accountable.
What are the two functions in the judiciary in the Australian political system?
In the Australian political system, the judiciary serves two main functions: interpreting laws and resolving disputes. Firstly, the judiciary interprets legislation passed by Parliament, ensuring that laws are applied consistently and fairly in accordance with the Constitution. This involves clarifying the meaning of laws and determining how they should be implemented. Secondly, the judiciary resolves disputes between individuals, organizations, and the government, providing a forum for justice where parties can present their cases. This function helps maintain social order and protects individual rights by ensuring that laws are upheld and enforced impartially.
what are social rights?
Social Rights include the access to education, health care, security of employment, adequate housing and income matience, rights to a basic level of material wellbeing by virtues of one’s citizenship rather than individual’s market capacity
what is global citizenship?
global citizen is someone who sees themselves as a member of the world community rather than just their own country or local community. It means recognising that we are all connected and share a common responsibility for the well-being of the planet and its people.
Define the term referendum
A referendum is a direct vote in which the electorate is invited to decide on a particular proposal or issue, often relating to changes in laws or government policy. In a referendum, citizens vote “yes” or “no” on the proposed change, and the outcome reflects the will of the majority. It is commonly used to gauge public opinion on significant matters, such as constitutional amendments or independence from a country.
What is a political spectrum?
A political spectrum is a way to visualize and categorize different political ideologies and positions based on their beliefs about government, economy, and society. It typically ranges from left to right, with the left representing more progressive ideas like social equality and government intervention, and the right representing more conservative views that favor free markets and limited government. The spectrum helps people understand where various political parties and individuals stand on issues and facilitates discussions about political beliefs and policies.
What is one thing thing people in the economic left support?
One thing that people on the economic left support is increased government intervention in the economy to promote social welfare and reduce inequality. This can include policies like higher taxes on the wealthy to fund social programs, increased minimum wage, and stronger regulations on businesses to protect workers’ rights and the environment. The goal is to ensure that everyone has access to essential services and opportunities, aiming for a fairer distribution of wealth and resources.
What is the connection between the type of government and the levels of corruption in a country?
The type of government can significantly influence the levels of corruption in a country. In democratic systems, where there is transparency, checks and balances, and the rule of law, there tends to be lower corruption because officials are held accountable by the public and independent institutions. In contrast, authoritarian regimes, where power is concentrated in the hands of a few and there is less oversight, often experience higher levels of corruption, as leaders may exploit their power for personal gain without fear of being challenged or punished. Ultimately, the structure and accountability mechanisms of a government play a crucial role in shaping its corruption levels.
