Government

Question 1

Which of the following best describes the separation of powers?
Founders and revolutionaries
Liberty and order
higher and lower
executive, legislative, and judicial branches

Answer 1

4.

Question 2

The founders established a republican form of government. Why did they do this?

1. They wanted the government to be as “conservative” as possible.
2. They believed elected officials could represent citizens and could be kept in check through elections
3. They believed the self-interest of the politicians needed to be restrained

Answer 2

2.

Question 3

If you were to read about a country whose government allows their president to declare war on another country, and individually coin money to fight the war without the consent of any other government official. Which of the following would best describe this system as compared with the government in the United States?

1. In the United States, only Congress can officially declare but the president must fund it.
2. In the United States the president can only declare war, but cannot fund it.
3. It is the same in the United States.
4. In the United States the president can neither declare nor fund a war without the vote of Congress.

Answer 3

4.

Question 4

You are writing a speech for school about the need for citizens to participate in their political system. Who would you quote as the earliest proponent of this notion?
Plato
Aristotle
Alexis de Tocqueville
John Locke

Answer 4

Aristotle

Question 5

Which political thinker wrote The Prince, where he justified popular sovereignty, revolution, and a separation of religious and secular government?
Cicero
Hobbes
Machiavelli
Aristotle

Answer 5

Machiavelli

Question 6

If a country has a political system where some decisions are made in local legislatures and others are made in the national legislature. Whose government would this most likely be compared to?

1. the British system under the Magna Charta
2. the system of government advocated by Plato
3. the Articles of Confederation
4. the U.S. system of government created in Philadelphia

Answer 6

4.

Question 7

Classical republicanism is principally concerned with ____________ while classical liberalism is concerned with _______________.
liberty; order
liberty; order and security
equality; property

Answer 7

liberty; order

Question 8

How does the Constitution divide power between the three branches?

1. Power is completely separated, allowing each branch to act and follow through without interference from the other two branches.
2. Power is not completely separated, allowing each branch to limit the other branches’ exercise of power.
3. Power is not clearly separated, so it is difficult to determine who has what power or check on the other branches.
4. Power is separated, but in such a way that two branches can easily work together to out vote the efforts of the third branch to exercise its powers.

Answer 8

2.

Question 9

As discussed in the chapter, what term is used to describe each branch of government’s separate and distinct sphere of power?
checks and balances
separate but equal
limited government
separation of powers

Answer 9

4.

Question 10

Who was considered to be the inventor of philosophy?
Machiavelli
Aristotle
Plato
Cicero

Answer 10

Plato

Question 11

What does unit 1 say is perhaps the most complex form of human interaction?
government
discussion
liberty
politics

Answer 11

Politics

Question 12

According to Tocqueville, civic virtue means simply that individuals have interests and desires that are not solely focused on themselves. Rather, they are willing to give up some of the things they want in order to promote the common good. What did he mean by this?

1. The more the economy grows, the more prosperous and happy everyone will be.
2. People would build businesses that would help others by employing community members.
3. People should help one another because the welfare of others affects individual welfare.
4. People who don’t know the issues and who cannot articulate their self-interest should not vote.

Answer 12

3.

Question 13

According to Hobbes, what would life be like without limits on an individual's behavior or if living in a state of nature?
Joyful
Amazing
Mundane
Perilous

Answer 13

Perilous

Question 14

Which of the following is not one of the three types of government outlined by Montesquieu?
Republican government
Democracy
Monarchy
Despotism

Answer 14

Democracy

Question 15

What does civilian control of the military mean?

1. Military leaders do not have any independent authority but are the servants of the elected representatives of the people.
2. The military is simply run by the people. They do what they are told.
3. The civilians have to be a part of the military.

Answer 15

1.

Question 16

Which of the following IS NOT an example of checks and balances in the United States Constitution?

1. The Supreme Court can review laws passed by congress and declare them unconstitutional if they deem them inconsistent with the Constitution.
2. The president can veto laws passed by Congress, but Congress can override a veto by a two-thirds majority vote in both houses.
3. The president can veto a Supreme Court decision, but only with the support of a two-thirds majority vote in Congress.
4. If the House believes the president is guilty of “high crimes or misdemeanors,” it can formally charge or impeach the president. A trial to decide whether to remove the president from office is held in the Senate.

Answer 16

3.

Question 17

A prominent political scientist famously described the American government as separate institutions sharing powers; Which two constitutional principles are embodied in this statement?
checks and balances and federalism
separation of powers and federalism
separation of powers and checks and balances

Answer 17

separation of powers and checks and balances

Question 18

Which of the following documents outlines the purpose of government to protect the social rights of its citizens, chiefly among these rights are life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness?
Mayflower Compact
Declaration of Independence
Articles of Confederation

Answer 18

Declaration of Independence

Question 19

How can the principle of federalism promote the protection of civil rights in the American federal system?

1. It provides the national government with enough power to protect citizens from abuses of power by the states in which they live.
2. It provides both state and national governments with the ability to protect citizens from abuses of power by the other.
3. It provides states enough power to protect their citizens from abuses of power by the national government.

Answer 19

2.

Question 20

Which of the following would Tocqueville most likely endorse?

1. creating national government programs to help the poor
2. encouraging the poor to help themselves through public education
3. encouraging civic groups to help the poor
4. creating state government programs to help the poor

Answer 20

3.

Question 21

What is the natural number of political parties in the American political system?

1. There are naturally two major political parties.
2. There are naturally three major political parties.
3. There is no natural number of major political parties.
4. There are naturally four major political parties.

Answer 21

1.

Question 22

What is the importance of the “millionaire’s amendment,” which is part of the Bipartisan Campaign Reform Act?

1. It supports equality of contributions among candidates’ campaigns.
2. It limits the amount a wealthy candidate can contribute to his or her own campaign.
3. It ensures that a wealthy candidate’s opponent receives equivalent contributions to his or her campaign.
4. It bans excessively wealthy candidates from campaigning.

Answer 22

1.

Question 23

Which of the following terms best describes a scenario where citizens are allowed to put questions on the ballot to add or change state laws?
recall
referendum
initiatives

Answer 23

initiatives

Question 24

How many electoral votes does each state have?

1. the same number as the sum of its United States senators and representatives
2. the same as the number of representatives it has in the United States House
3. the same as the number of senators it has in the United States Senate

Answer 24

1.

Question 25

The practice of drawing districts that favor a politician’s own party and which are detrimental to the other party originated with and is named after which politician?
Elbridge Gerry
Gray Davis
Jesse Ventura
James Madison

Answer 25

Elbridge Gerry

Question 26

Which of the following is true about recall elections in the U.S.?

1. The recall is only used in California, which enabled Arnold Schwarzenegger to become governor of California in 2004.
2. If voters decide that an elected official is not performing as they expected, they can “recall” the individual.
3. They are used in most states to decide whether to retain judges or not.
4. They are held in every state in the union.

Answer 26

2.

Question 27

Some voters identify themselves as Independent but also admit to leaning toward the Republican Party. How is such a voter likely to vote?

1. “Leaners” are about equally likely to vote Democrat as they are Republican.
2. “Leaners” are less likely to vote Republican than those who identify themselves as Republicans.
3. “Leaners” are more likely to vote Republican than those who identify themselves as Republicans.
4. “Leaners” are just as likely to vote Republican as those who identify themselves as Republicans.

Answer 27

4.

Question 28

Which of the following is true of political parties in the United States today?

1. Citizens must join a political party if they want to participate in party activities.
2. A party’s main function is to elect people to public office.
3. Political parties mean little after the election is over and members of Congress begin their work.
4. An increasing number of people affiliate with the political parties.

Answer 28

2.

Question 29

The election of 1800 exposed which of the following problems in the presidential electoral system?

1. It is not wise to make the top vote-getter the president and the second-place finisher the vice president.
2. It was possible to win a majority of the vote but still lose the presidency.
3. The Federalist Party became the dominant U.S. political party.
4. Primaries started in order to involve the general public.

Answer 29

1.

Question 30

If you were a campaign manager for a person running for Congress in a major city, where would you spend most of your money?
fundraising dinners
political advertisements
plane trips around the district
trips to county fairs

Answer 30

political advertisements

Question 31

When a random representative sample is drawn from a population, the procedure is deemed to be what type of sample?
Mingling Sample
Instant Sample
Call in your vote Sample
Scientific Sampling

Answer 31

Scientific Sampling

Question 32

Which events are listed in the correct order?

1. party candidate announced, primary election, Electoral College votes, general election, the new president announced
2. the primary election, party candidate announced, general election, Electoral College votes, new president announced
3. primary election, party candidate announced, Electoral College votes, general election, the new president announced
4. party candidate announced, Electoral College votes, primary election, general election, the new president announced

Answer 32

2.

Question 33

Which of the following is one of the most important functions of political parties in the United States?

1. disciplining party members who do not support the party’s positions
2. providing organizations through which like-minded individuals can unanimously pursue specific policy goals
3. establishing a party platform that all party members adhere to and support in the legislative process
4. recruiting and supporting candidates to run for office under the party’s banner

Answer 33

4.

Question 34

Which of the following mechanisms comes closest to a full realization of direct democracy?
referendum
initiative
recall election
primary election

Answer 34

Initiative

Question 35

A group in your community starts a petition to change a government policy in the area. If the group collects enough signatures, what will result?
a recall election
a referendum
an initiative
an impeachment

Answer 35

an initiative

Question 36

Article I, Section 2 of the Constitution calls for an actual enumeration of the nation’s population. What is this generally interpreted as?

1. a count of the registered voters in the U.S.
2. a sampling of the U.S. population
3. a count of one half of the U.S. population
4. an individual count of the U.S. population

Answer 36

4.

Question 37

Which individual did not win the majority of electoral votes in the general election but was chosen by the House to become president of the U.S.?
Andrew Jackson
George W. Bush
Thomas Jefferson
Al Gore

Answer 37

Thomas Jefferson

Question 38

Which of the following is true concerning elections for the presidency in the United States?

1. A candidate cannot win the party nomination without winning all of the primaries.
2. A candidate can win the popular vote, but lose the election.
3. The Electoral College is evidence that the Founders trusted American voters to make an informed decision.
4. Voters vote for the president directly (with no intermediaries) in the primaries but not in the general election.

Answer 38

2.

Question 39

What is so unique about the Republican Party in the United States?

1. It is the first truly “conservative” political party.
2. It was the first “third party” to become a major party.
3. It is the modern manifestation of the Jeffersonian Republicans.
4. It is the modern manifestation of the Anti-Federalists.

Answer 39

2.

Question 40

What defines the success of a campaign?

1. high turnout at campaign rallies
2. excellent representation of the candidate
3. good organization and unlimited resources
4. securing more votes than the other candidates in the race and winning the election

Answer 40

4.

Question 41

What are the percentages of religious affiliations in the United States?

1. 70% Christian; 80% religious believers; 20% no religious belief; with Catholics as the largest single religious group.
2. 80% Christian; 90% religious believers; 10% no religious belief; with Baptists as the largest single religious group.
3. 80% Christian; 90% religious believers; 10% no religious belief; with Catholics as the largest single religious group.
4. 50% Christian; 90% religious believers; 10% no religious belief; with Methodists as the largest single religious group.

Answer 41

3.

Question 42

Why are the Thirteenth, Fourteenth, and Fifteenth Amendments so important?

1. They form the basis of the Constitution.
2. They were changes in civil rights as influenced by civic and political groups produced by civil society.
3. They brought about the Civil Rights Act of 1964.
4. They were all created within the same decade.

Answer 42

2.

Question 43

In country F, a religious leader or leaders holds political power. What type of government would country F be?
monarchy
democratic republic
oligarchy
dictatorship
theocracy

Answer 43

theocracy

Question 44

If you lived in the 1640s and wanted to live in a colony that protected freedom of religion, where would you move?
Massachusetts
All of the states protected freedom of religion equally.
New York
Rhode Island

Answer 44

Rhode Island

Question 45

Citizens in Country A do not have the right to assemble. How would life there be different from the United States?

1. Country A would have a smaller number of social groups, but more interest groups.
2. In country A, democracy would function better because like-minded individuals could bind together in groups.
3. In Country A, democracy would not function as well because like-minded individuals would be less likely to form any type of group.
4. Country A would have a smaller number of interest groups, but more social groups.

Answer 45

3.

Question 46

Which of the following describes the potential of groups in America that affords virtually everyone the opportunity to participate and influence the nation’s politics, economy, and culture?
anti-federalism
federalism
pluralism

Answer 46

pluralism

Question 47

Which of the following best describes the term pluralism?

1. Freedom of association and expression, but not assembly or religious exercise to pursue their own interests in the political process.
2. Freedom of association, expression, and assembly, but not religious exercise to pursue their own interests in the political process.
3. Freedom of association, expression, assembly, and religious exercise to pursue their own interests in the political process.
4. No freedom of association, expression, assembly, or religious exercise to pursue their own interests in the political process.

Answer 47

3.

Question 48

What is civil society?

1. a society that respects and lives by every rule of law
2. a society in which citizens always treat each other with fairness and justice
3. a society in which social groups form freely to petition the government

Answer 48

3.

Question 49

In-country E, all citizens are allowed to vote on who will be their representative. What type of government would country E be?
oligarchy
theocracy
monarchy
democratic republic
dictatorship

Answer 49

democratic republic

Question 50

What does the Civil Rights Act of 1964 deal with?

1. finally ended the practice of slavery
2. applied only to state governments
3. forbids discrimination on the basis of race, sex, religion, and national origin
4. insured voting rights for all Americans

Answer 50

3.

Question 51

Which of the following is most likely to create far-reaching national public policy change?

1. By joining a large group and marching for civil rights
2. You signing a pre-written letter created by another group and sending it
3. You writing an individual letter to a politician
4. By creating your own group to petition your city council

Answer 51

1.

Question 52

In-country B, one person holds political power due to family inheritance. What type of government would country B be?
monarchy
oligarchy
dictatorship
theocracy
democratic republic

Answer 52

monarchy

Question 53

What was the purpose of the Thirteenth Amendment?

1. to guarantee all citizens the right to vote
2. to provide “equal protection” under the law for former slaves
3. to abolish slavery

Answer 53

3.

Question 54

In-country C, several powerful economic leaders collectively hold political power. What type of government would country C be?
oligarchy
democratic republic
dictatorship
theocracy
monarchy

Answer 54

oligarchy

Question 55

What was the purpose of the Fifteenth Amendment?
to abolish slavery
to guarantee all citizens the right to vote
to provide “equal protection under the law” for former slaves

Answer 55

to guarantee all citizens the right to vote

Question 56

In country D, one person, such as Adolf Hitler, holds all of the political power. What type of government would country D be?
monarchy
theocracy
oligarchy
democratic republic
dictatorship

Answer 56

dictatorship

Question 57

According to George Washington in his farewell speech, he mentioned two areas important to political prosperity. One was religion, what was the second important ingredient that was indispensable for the success of the nation?
a wall of separation between church and state
a strongly economy
law
morality

Answer 57

morality

Question 58

Which of the following best describes the role of religion in modern day America?

1. Religious belief is widespread, but most Americans are tolerant of others with different beliefs.
2. Religious belief was historically important in public policy decisions, but religion has little influence today.
3. Religious belief is widespread, but it has little to no influence on public policy.
4. Religious belief is required to hold high public office in the United States.

Answer 58

1.

Question 59

Which of the following media channels has done the most to "democratize" the news, that is, make it easier for more people to both produce and obtain the news?
Internet
radio
network news
cable news

Answer 59

internet

Question 60

How does unit 8 recommend you minimize media bias?
Watch a single source of news that is less biased than the others.
Watch multiple sources of news to get multiple viewpoints.
Think critically about media content.

Answer 60

Watch multiple sources of new to get multiple viewpoints.

Question 61

Which amendment leaves several important questions unanswered regarding the media and what they have the right to do?
Sixth
First
Fourth
Second

Answer 61

First

Question 62

If you do not have much money to run a political campaign, yet live in a large media market, which of the following would you employ most?
free media
door-to-door visits
political advertising

Answer 62

free media

Question 63

Which of the following was not a factor that helped print journalism flourish in the mid-1800s?
the decreasing costs of printing presses
the invention of the telegraph
the rising price of postage
the emergence of a large working class

Answer 63

the rising price of postage

Question 64

Which of the following statements is not true of newspapers printed during the founding era in the United States?

1. They were openly and adamantly partisan.
2. They were largely political tracts.
3. They were aimed at convincing the people to support or oppose the ratification of the Constitution.
4. They were impartial and shared all points of view as providers of information.

Answer 64

4.

Question 65

The rise of cable television has decreased the power and audience of which group?
Radio News and newspapers
Internet news sources and TV network news
TV network news
Radio News and Internet news

Answer 65

TV network news

Question 66

What is the major advantage of campaign advertising?
It can be inexpensive.
It presents the candidate exactly as he/she wishes.
It is easy to produce.

Answer 66

It presents the candidate exactly as he/she wishes

Question 67

What is the main factor that leads the press to give little attention to serious public policy discussion?
the futility of informing the public (most people cannot understand the information)
the fact that reporters aren’t professionally trained to cover those stories
the fact that citizens don’t want to listen to such information
the FCC mandate not only to inform, but entertain

Answer 67

the fact that citizens don’t want to listen to such information

Question 68

The ownership of news outlets in the U.S. has changed over time. Which of the following correctly represents who owns and operates major media outlet today?

1. media owned by the government
2. media owned by large corporations
3. media owned by private citizens
4. media owned by political parties

Answer 68

2.

Question 69

How has the definition of newsworthy changed over time?

1. The media is now allowed to report the names of victims or minors involved in crimes.
2. The media has become stricter about reporting information about the personal behavior of political leaders.
3. The media has become more relaxed about reporting information about the personal behavior of political leaders.
4. The media is no longer required to give individuals the opportunity to respond to criticism.

Answer 69

3.

Question 70

Which of the following news stories would Thomas Patterson most likely find out of order or that he would oppose during an election campaign?
a Washington sex scandal
a public policy debate between political candidates
a story about a celebrity marriage
a campaign speech where the candidate discussed their church and family

Answer 70

a Washington sex scandal

Question 71

What was considered the first major opportunity for citizens to voice their views via the mass media?
Radio
Email
Newspapers
Television

Answer 71

Newspapers

Question 72

Which of the following media is likely to have the most impact on public opinion?
television coverage of war
neighbor-to-neighbor discussions of war
radio coverage of war
newspaper coverage of war

Answer 72

television coverage of war

Question 73

Who was the first president to regularly appeal directly to the American public by broadcasting his own voice?
Franklin D. Roosevelt
Woodrow Wilson
Abraham Lincoln
Harry S. Truman

Answer 73

Franklin D. Roosevelt

Question 74

Which of the following is correct concerning the relationship between the press and politicians?

1. The press and politicians generally have an adversarial relationship, each having different goals.
2. The press has little incentive to cover political scandals since they involve private, not public, behavior.
3. The press desires to provide concrete issue information to the public, but politicians don’t want to focus on issues.

Answer 74

1.

Question 75

Which media activity will afford a politician the greatest control over the content of the message received by citizens?
an appearance on Fox News
an appearance at a presidential news conference
an appearance in a campaign advertisement
an appearance on David Letterman

Answer 75

as appearance in a campaign advertisement

Question 76

Which of the following would be considered free media?
appearances on local TV news
campaign stump speeches
political advertising

Answer 76

appearances on local TV news

Question 77

Your friend complains to you about the partisan and biased nature of the media. Which of the following information could you share with him to help improve his outlook?

1. Partisanship is a problem on TV news but not a problem in newspapers.
2. Partisanship in the media was much worse just after the country was founded.
3. Partisanship in the media is at an all-time high and will likely go down.

Answer 77

2.

Question 78

In which of the following media sources do citizens have the greatest chance to participate?
television programs
newspapers
Internet and Web sites
radio programs

Answer 78

Internet and Web sites

Question 79

Which of the following is true of bills in the legislative process?
They are easier to pass than to kill.
They are harder to pass than to kill.
They are almost always vetoed under a divided-party government.
They are introduced by the president.

Answer 79

They are harder to pass than to kill.

Question 80

Judge X has served on the Supreme Court for ten years and wants to continue service. Which of the following correctly describes this judge’s options for staying on the Supreme Court?

1. This judge can continue to serve on the court if the president and Congress vote to approve continued service in a retention vote.
2. This judge can continue serving at long as he or she chooses and cannot be forced to resign.
3. This judge can serve until death unless impeached or steps down.
4. This judge must retire, as Supreme Court justices can only serve for ten years.

Answer 80

3.

Question 81

Why are there eleven amendments discussed in reference to the Bill of Rights in unit 4?

1. The Fifth Amendment was originally two separate amendments, which were later joined together to create one single amendment.
2. The Twenty-second Amendment was originally meant to be included in the Bill of Rights but did not get enough votes until later on.
3. The Twenty-seventh Amendment was proposed by Madison at the time the Bill of Rights was created.
4. The Thirteenth Amendment implies a concept of free speech that was inspired by the First Amendment, which is part of the Bill of Rights.

Answer 81

3.

Question 82

When do bills typically come to the floor for debate in the Senate?
when the majority and minority leaders agree to bring them to the floor
whenever an individual senator makes a simple motion
according to the schedule established by the Rules Committee

Answer 82

when the majority and minority leaders agree to bring them to the floor.

Question 83

Which of the following elected officials could have the most influence on the selection of a Supreme Court justice?

1. Members of the House Judiciary Committee would have the most influence.
2. Members of the Senate would have the most influence.
3. Members of the House of Representatives would have the most influence.
4. Members of the House and Senate all have equal power in confirming Supreme Court justices.

Answer 83

2.

Question 84

Which of the following best describes the Supreme Court’s role in the legislative process?

1. The Supreme Court plays no role in the way legislation is constructed.
2. The Supreme Court can declare legislation unconstitutional after it is passed.
3. The Supreme Court gives routine advisory opinions to members of Congress to help them decide what is Constitutional and what is not.
4. The Supreme Court, like the president, can veto legislation that is unconstitutional.

Answer 84

2.

Question 85

Constitutionally, the president is quite powerful. However, many obstacles limit the power of the president. Which of the following is a significant limit on presidential power?

1. lack of media coverage of presidential events
2. the ability of the Supreme Court to reject the president’s executive branch nominees
3. divided-party control of the national government
4. insufficient budgetary resources

Answer 85

3.

Question 86

Which of the following is NOT part of the criteria for presidential eligibility?
having been a resident of the United States for at least fourteen years
being a “natural born citizen”
being at least thirty-five years of age
having at least ten years of prior political experience

Answer 86

having at least ten years of prior political experience

Question 87

What is the time limit on ratification of amendments?
seven years
nine months
two years
sixty days

Answer 87

seven years

Question 88

What is the least common way to adapt the Constitution to modern needs?

1. Supreme Court rulings that change the boundaries of what is constitutional
2. expanding the use of the “general welfare” and “necessary and proper clauses” of the Constitution
3. formal constitutional amendment

Answer 88

3.

Question 89

What is the main purpose of the Thirteenth, Fourteenth, and Fifteenth Amendments to the Constitution?
create greater equality for African Americans
extend voting rights to minority groups
fix problems in the Electoral College system

Answer 89

create greater equality for African Americans

Question 90

Which of the following accurately describes the way the United States House and Senate are organized?

1. There are 100 members in the Senate and 435 in the House.
2. Representation in the Senate is based on a state’s population.
3. There are 100 members in the House and 435 in the Senate.
4. Representation in the House is equal for every state.

Answer 90

1.

Question 91

A law is passed limiting the free speech rights of high school students. A group of teachers brings a case before the Supreme Court, challenging the law on the grounds that it violates the students First Amendment rights. What is the Supreme Court most likely to do in this case?

1. refuse to hear the case because it is a “political question”
2. hear the case and make a determination about the constitutionality of the law
3. hear the case if four of the nine justices believe it has merits
4. refuse to hear the case because the individuals bringing the case before it do not have standing or “injury in fact,” i.e., that they have been harmed in some real way.

Answer 91

4.

Question 92

What are the secretaries of federal government departments collectively called?
board of advisors
joint House-Senate committee
Cabinet

Answer 92

Cabinet

Question 93

Which of the following presidents best fits the title lame duck?
Nixon, who served from 1969–1973.
Ford, who served from 1973–1977.
Reagan, who served from 1981–1989.
Carter, who served from 1977–1980.

Answer 93

Reagan

Question 94

Which individual or organization has primary constitutional authority to establish and develop relations with other nations?
the United States Senate (and not the House of Representatives)
the United States Congress
the State Department
the president of the United States

Answer 94

the president of the United States

Question 95

What is required for the proposal of a new amendment?

1. Two-thirds of Congress must agree to propose, or two-thirds of all state legislatures can call a constitutional convention.
2. Fifty percent of the House and fifty percent of the Senate must agree to propose, with approval from the president.
3. Any member of Congress may propose an amendment.
4. A simple majority of the House must agree to take the amendment into consideration.

Answer 95

1.

Question 96

Presidents can be removed from office due to what?
“bad behavior”
failure to preserve and defend the Constitution
failure to properly execute the law
high crimes and misdemeanors

Answer 96

high crimes and misdemeanors

Question 97

How many presidents have been impeached in the history of the United States?
none
six
three
two

Answer 97

three

Question 98

Bills must be passed in identical form by both the Senate and the House before being sent to the president. Under what circumstances does this most frequently occur?

1. House and Senate committees work closely together to make sure both the House version and Senate version of bills are essentially the same.
2. The bill is immediately introduced into the other house after it passes the House or Senate.
3. Two versions of the bill are run through the House and Senate simultaneously and a special House-Senate conference committee is established to create a compromise version of the bill.

Answer 98

3.

Question 99

Theodore Roosevelt said that the president’s greatest power is access to the “bully pulpit.” Which of the following describes the term “bully pulpit”?

1. The ability to use the legal process to influence public policy.
2. The ability to convince Congress that they are correct.
3. The ability to have an audience to convince the public to support their policy preferences.

Answer 99

3.

Question 100

Which of the following is true about the case of McCulloch v. Maryland and the conflict between the state and federal government?

1. The court prohibited states from receiving federal government funding.
2. The state sued the national government based on the claims that the national government had overstepped its bounds by creating the bank and the states could tax it.
3. The court ruled that Congress could not limit the actions of the president or other executive branch officers.
4. The court ruled that states could not ignore national government mandates.

Answer 100

2.

Question 101

If you wanted to make an argument defending state power, which amendment to the Constitution would you quote to make your case?
Ninth
Tenth
Fifth
First

Answer 101

Tenth

Question 102

In Country X, powers are shared between the state and national government, meaning states can make policy in some areas and the national government in other areas. What is Country X?
a federal system
a unitary system
a “mixed” system
a confederation

Answer 102

a federal system

Question 103

Which of the following is true concerning the current state of the war power?

1. Presidents can unilaterally declare war.
2. Presidents can declare war, but must get the approval of Congress to actually commit troops.
3. Presidents can commit troops but must obtain congressional approval to keep them “in harm’s way.”
4. Both houses of Congress must consent in all instances where troops are committed “in harm’s way.”

Answer 103

3.

Question 104

Which of the following is not a power shared by federal, state, and local governments?
making and interpreting the law
collecting income tax
waging war against other nations
preventing and punishing crime

Answer 104

waging war against other nations

Question 105

At what point do Lobbyists stop being involved in the policymaking process?
When a policy is implemented
Identifying the potential policies
When a policy is formulated
When a problem is identified

Answer 105

When a policy is implemented

Question 106

You are fighting to get Congress and the Supreme Court to agree that there is a right to travel. Which part of the constitution would be your best support?
the necessary and proper clause
the Tenth Amendment
the Ninth Amendment
the executive power

Answer 106

the Ninth Amendment

Question 107

Which president lost political support for a time as a result of his court-packing scheme, an obvious attempt to control the judicial branch?
Franklin D. Roosevelt
Lyndon Johnson
George Bush
John F. Kennedy

Answer 107

Franklin D. Roosevelt

Question 108

Interest groups often conduct media campaigns to get citizens and politicians to see the urgency of a problem. What is this activity known as?
agenda setting
attention-getting
policy implementation
policymaking

Answer 108

agenda setting

Question 109

Which type of federalism would Abraham Lincoln most likely advocate, considering his Civil War experience and his belief that no state had the right to leave the Union?
new
permissive
dual or "layer cake"
cooperative or "marble cake"

Answer 109

permissive

Question 110

Despite your desire to live an exemplary life, you find yourself as a defendant in federal court. Which of the following courts is most likely to be the location of your initial trial?
State district court
U.S. Supreme Court
Federal District Court
Federal Court of Appeals

Answer 110

Federal District Court

Question 111

There are four different types of government agencies. You are pushing to create a new one with autonomy and an expectation to raise money. Which type of agency would you try to create?

1. a government corporation
2. an independent agency
3. a cabinet-level department
4. an independent regulatory commission

Answer 111

1.

Question 112

Local governments have the greatest control over which type of public policy?
environmental policy
homeland security
law enforcement
state tax collection

Answer 112

law enforcement

Question 113

What is the most significant and persistent challenge faced by state local governments?

1. poverty and homelessness
2. finances and taxes
3. suburbanization
4. competition between cities for businesses

Answer 113

2.

Question 114

Which of the following is true of executive orders?

1. Executive orders are voted on by Congress.
2. Executive orders are considered less binding than the orders of Congress.
3. Executive orders are unconstitutional and have been so ever since the presidency of George Washington.
4. Executive orders are part of the “executive power” granted to the president.

Answer 114

4.

Question 115

What is a federal system in which power is clearly divided between the national and regional governments best described as?
cooperative federalism
dual federalism or “layer cake” federalism
permissive federalism
“marble cake” federalism

Answer 115

dual federalism or layer cake federalism

Question 116

What are the documents that establish the structures and functions of city governments called?
home rule
constitutions
subgovernment contracts
charters

Answer 116

charters

Question 117

Which of the following governments is most autonomous, meaning they make public policy without oversight or interference from other levels of government?
city governments
school boards
state governments
county governments

Answer 117

state governments

Question 118

What does the Constitution forbid states from?
making laws pertaining to the environment and land use
chartering cities
making treaties with foreign governments
raising militias for the defense of the state

Answer 118

making treaties with foreign governments

Question 119

Which of the following best describes the role of religion in modern day America?

1. Religious belief is widespread, but most Americans are tolerant of others with different beliefs.
2. Religious belief was historically important in public policy decisions, but religion has little influence today.
3. Religious belief is widespread, but it has little to no influence on public policy.
4. Religious belief is required to hold high public office in the United States.

Answer 119

1.

Question 120

What can be concluded from unit 3 about religion in the United States?

1. It is diverse, but that diversity often causes more contention because everyone wants to be right in their beliefs, and different ideas are conflicting.
2. We all take our freedom of religion for granted and do not adequately apply it today.
3. There is little or no room for contemporary issues regarding faith.
4. Even though there are many different denominations, people tend to be both tolerant of and grateful for those differences.

Answer 120

4.

Question 121

Which of the following best describes health care delivery in a socialist economy?

1. There is some combination of private control and ownership with government regulation and low-income health insurance.
2. Prices are set by the market; private firms provide insurance to those who pay premiums.
3. The people set prices and hospitals are owned by the people, so there is no need for insurance.
4. Prices are set by government; individuals pay higher taxes in return for government funded insurance/health care.

Answer 121

4.

Question 122

In which of the following political systems do people have the least economic freedom, social welfare, and human rights?
communism
socialism
monarchy
feudalism

Answer 122

feudalism

Question 123

The notion that a nation can enhance its power by enriching itself through world trade is a key tenet of which form of government?
communism
feudalism
socialism
mercantilism

Answer 123

mercantilism

Question 124

The expansionist policies of what country—which led successful military campaigns in China, Korea, and other countries—were ended in World War II?
Japan
U.S.S.R.
Nigeria
Poland

Answer 124

Japan

Question 125

In which system of government (parliamentary or American) is it hardest to obtain party unity and, hence, party support, to make governmental decisions?
neither
American system
parliamentary system

Answer 125

American System

Question 126

Which of the following is a correct statement about the difference between the American and British political systems?

1. The American system has more political parties than the British system.
2. Decision-making power is more divided in the British system.
3. The Prime Minister is selected from the party in control while the President is elected.
4. It is harder to predict members’ votes in the British system.

Answer 126

3.

Question 127

Who refused to be made king over the United States after the Revolutionary War, though many Americans wanted to anoint him as their king?
Thomas Jefferson
Patrick Henry
John Adams
George Washington

Answer 127

George Washington

Question 128

The turmoil in post-Hussein Iraq illustrates what about the forces that sustain democracy?

1. The existence of a large middle class is sufficient to sustain democracy.
2. Respect for popular sovereignty is sufficient to sustain democracy.
3. Democratic government cannot function effectively if disagreeing factions fight with each other instead of trusting political leaders to resolve their disagreements.

Answer 128

3.

Question 129

Which of the following issues most concerned Karl Marx?
political inequality
the lack of economic growth in Russia
the lack of democracy
economic inequality among its citizens

Answer 129

economic inequality among its citizens

Question 130

What is another term for a command economy?
capitalist economy
socialist economy
communist economy
mixed economy

Answer 130

communist economy

Question 131

Which is true of divided party government?

1. It occurs often but has little impact on the ability of the government to get things done.
2. It is more likely in a parliamentary system than the U.S. system.
3. It has been increasing since World War II.
4. It has been a common occurrence since the first congress in 1791.

Answer 131

3.

Question 132

Which pope pushed for reform in Poland in a nonconfrontational, nonviolent way?
Pope Pius XII
Pope John Paul II
Pope Benedict XVI
Pope Leo XIII

Answer 132

Pope John Paul II

Question 133

Tyrannical governments are least likely to form from which of the following types of conflicts?

1. Longstanding religious or ethnic conflicts, particularly those tied to claims of the right to occupy territory, are exploited by a charismatic leader who promises to lead one group or faction to “victory” over other competing groups or factions.
2. An influential cultural or religious figure capitalizes on stories or myths and his place in them to accumulate trust and support as the rightful ruler of the people.
3. A strong leader promises that, under his rule, economic prosperity will enhance the quality of life and national power of the nation.
4. A strong military leader promises protection against the threats of neighboring nations or regimes to the military or economic security of his or her own people.

Answer 133

3.

Question 134

Some democratic movements have short-circuited because the preconditions for democracy were not met after the collapse of communism. Which country in particular experienced such a short circuit, which caused a period of economic depression that continues today?
Poland
United States
Germany
Russia

Answer 134

Russia

Question 135

Why did tyranny arise in Nigeria?

1. They have been plagued by economic turmoil, ethnic tensions, and rampant corruption.
2. The people were well educated but too poor to fight the rise of the army.
3. Ethnic conflict created a need for a centralizing authority, so the old king returned to unite the country.

Answer 135

1.

Question 136

Which of the following governmental systems would encourage most people to participate in the political system?
federation
confederation
unitary system
no difference between these systems

Answer 136

confederation

Question 137

What do the efforts of Lech Walesa and Solidarity in Poland demonstrate?
There is power in large numbers of people joined together in a common cause.
Trade unions must be abolished before communism can be overturned.
Communism can never be overthrown peacefully.

Answer 137

There is power in large numbers of people joined together in a common cause.

Question 138

With which of the following distributions of wealth would Karl Marx be most dissatisfied?
1. The richest 20 percent has 50 percent of the wealth.
The middle 60 percent has 40 percent of the wealth.
The poorest 20 percent has 10 percent of the wealth.
2. The richest 20 percent has 30 percent of the wealth.
The middle 60 percent has 60 percent of the wealth.
The poorest 20 percent has 10 percent of the wealth.
3. The richest 20 percent has 20 percent of the wealth.
The middle 60 percent has 60 percent of the wealth.
The poorest 20 percent has 20 percent of the wealth.

Answer 138

1.

Question 139

Which of the following examples best illustrates how state and local governments can serve as laboratories of democracy?

1. the War Powers Act, wherein Congress created a law to limit the power of the president to wage war
2. abortion policy, wherein the Supreme Court created the “trimester” system
3. state welfare policy, wherein the national government adopted the welfare system used in Wisconsin

Answer 139

3.

Question 140

You need a good example of a confederation to present to your class in school. Which of the following will be your best choice?
the United States between 1789 and today
the northern states during the Civil War
the United States today
The United Nations

Answer 140

The United Nations

Question 141

There is a narcotics agent who regularly gets information from a reliable informant. The information the informant has given the agent in the past has led to several arrests and convictions. One day, the informant tells the agent about a man, whom the agent has never met, who has gone to another city to purchase 20 kilograms of cocaine. Based on the tip, the agent goes to the airport, recognizes the man from the informant’s description, arrests him, and seizes the cocaine. What is this action considered?

1. unconstitutional because it failed the test for a reasonable “search and seizure”
2. unconstitutional because it violated the man’s “right to privacy”
3. constitutional, but the evidence will not be admissible in court
4. constitutional because there was “probable cause” to search the man

Answer 141

4.

Question 142

Which of the following cases began the expansion of federal powers over state powers?
McCulloch v. Maryland
U.S. v. Nixon
Marbury v. Madison

Answer 142

McCulloch v. Maryland

Question 143

Using a hypothetical situation, a case comes before the Supreme Court challenging a state law of limiting how many children a married couple could have. How would a judge vote using a “loose interpretation” approach?
There is not enough information to say.
They would vote to overturn the ban.
They would vote to uphold the ban.

Answer 143

They would vote to overturn the ban

Question 144

You are a person who feels that the most important constitutional principles are the separation of powers and checks and balances. Which of the following cases would you most appreciate?
Plessy v. Ferguson
McCulloch v. Maryland
Marbury v. Madison

Answer 144

Marbury v. Madison

Question 145

Which of the following best describes the establishment clause?
Establishment of the Constitution of the United States.
Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion.
The establishment of the three branches of government
Congress shall provide equal protection under the law

Answer 145

Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion.

Question 146

The Fourteenth Amendment is violated in cases where policies or programs favor one group over another (for example, favoring men over women or vice versa).
false
true

Answer 146

False

Question 147

Affirmative action was intended by Lyndon Johnson to ensure that applicants are employed and treated without regard to race, creed, color, or nationality.
true
false

Answer 147

true

Question 148

Which case overturned the Court’s previous decision that separate institutions for blacks and whites can be “equal?”
Dred Scott v. Sandford
Brown v. Board of Education
Brown II
Miranda v. Arizona

Answer 148

Brown v. Board of Education

Question 149

The Supreme Court strives to protect freedom of speech and expression. As such, it is worried about creating “chilling effects”; The violation of which of the following is least likely to produce “chilling effects”
content neutrality
least drastic means
prior restraint

Answer 149

content neutrality

Question 150

Which of the following cases best shows where the Supreme Court ruled where public interest was threatened by an individual’s religious practice and the individual’s religious liberty was deemed less important than the preservation of societal order?

1. Reynolds v. United States, in which a Mormon argued that prohibiting polygamy violated free exercise rights
2. Engele v. Vitale, in which a complainant argued that mandatory prayers written by state officials violated free exercise rights
3. Wisconsin v. Yoder, in which an Amish family argued that being required to send their children to school after age 16 violated their right to the free practice of religion

Answer 150

1.

Question 151

If a person was not read their “Miranda rights,” confessed to the police, and was eventually convicted of the crime based upon their confession, what part of due process would be violated?
protection against self-incrimination
protection against double jeopardy
right to a trial by jury

Answer 151

protection against self-incrimination

Question 152

The case of President Clinton and his relationship with Monica Lewinsky is an example of immunity in regard to the Fifth Amendment rights.
false
true

Answer 152

true

Question 153

Which case found that former slaves did not have the same legal rights as citizens?
Brown v. Board of Education
Miranda v. Arizona
Dred Scott v Sandford
Brown II

Answer 153

Dred Scott v. Sandford

Question 154

Which case required police officers to inform people of their right to an attorney when they are arrested?
Miranda v. Arizona
Brown II
Brown v. Board of Education
Dred Scott v. Sandford

Answer 154

Miranda v. Arizona

Question 155

Which case required states to end segregation with “all due haste”?
Miranda v. Arizona
Brown II
Brown v. Board of Education
Dred Scott v. Sandford

Answer 155

Brown II

Question 156

A state brings a case to the Supreme Court arguing the Federal Government has overstepped its constitutional bounds. Which of the following cases would describe this scenario?
Marbury v. Madison
U.S. v. Nixon
McCulloch v. Maryland

Answer 156

McCulloch v. Maryland

Question 157

The “strict scrutiny” standard invalidated certain affirmative action policies whose focus was not narrow enough.
false
true

Answer 157

true

Question 158

You are a Supreme Court justice. A case before you challenges the constitutionality of affirmative action programs for African Americans. You believe the programs are constitutional and that they deserve “strict scrutiny.” Which case would you use as a precedent to support your point of view?

1. United States v. VMI
2. Regents of the University of California v. Bakke
3. Adarand Constructors, Inc. v. Peña
4. Miranda v. Arizona

Answer 158

3.

Question 159

The practice of paying teachers who teach secular subjects at private religious schools has been rejected by the Supreme Court as a violation of the Establishment Clause. It violates which of the following tenets of the Lemon test?
neither advances nor inhibits religion
secular legislative purpose
the “wall of separation”
excessive government entanglement

Answer 159

excessive government entanglement

Question 160

Which of the following best reflects the Founder’s views on self-interest and virtue?

1. self-interest was beneficial to the economy, but citizens of the republic needed to develop “civic virtue.”
2. Citizens would be virtuous when they sought to increase their personal wealth.
3. self-interest must be guarded while serving in the government but not in the economy.
4. self-interest was natural and could be beneficial to the economy and to politicians.

Answer 160

1.

Question 161

Which of the following people is ready to become a naturalized citizen of the United States?
Candidate #4, who has been a permanent resident for the specified period of time, speaks English and understands civics basics, has never been convicted of illegal activity, but is unwilling to support military service in times of need
Candidate #1, who has been a permanent resident for the specified period of time, speaks English and understands civics basics, has never been convicted of illegal activity, and is willing to take the Oath of Allegiance.
Candidate #3, who has been a permanent resident for the specified period of time, speaks English and understands civics basics, was previously deported, and is willing to take the oath of office
Candidate #2, who has not been a permanent resident for the specified period of time, speaks English and understands civics basics, has never been convicted of illegal activity, and is willing to take the oath of office

Answer 161

Candidate 1

Question 162

When is a form of media considered obscene?
When scientists do not find it appropriate
When most average citizens do not find it appropriate
When religious leaders do not find it appropriate
When it is not appropriate for children

Answer 162

When most average citizens do not find it appropriate

Question 163

A Civil Rights group has decided to hold a public meeting to discuss recent prejudicial acts. Some members of the group are concerned they will be arrested for participating in the meeting, especially if the meeting becomes heated. They know that previous meetings on this issue have ended in arguments and, occasionally, with violence. Which of the following best describes the Supreme Court’s history in the area of assembly?

1. Assembly cases are given more scrutiny when public safety is a concern.
2. It has weighed even more heavily in favor of individual rights in freedom of assembly cases than it has on speech cases.
3. More latitude is given to the freedom to assemble when civil rights are at stake.

Answer 163

1.

Question 164

Which of the following is not a characteristic that an applicant for U.S. citizenship must demonstrate?
attachment to the U.S. Constitution
proficiency in English
good moral character
have a relative who currently lives in the United States

Answer 164

have a relative who currently lives in the United States

Question 165

A law that prohibits indecent material on the Internet is put into force. How is this not consistent with the guarantees in the First Amendment?
The law imposes prior restraint.
The law is not content neutral.
The law is not the least drastic means available.
The law is too vague.

Answer 165

The law is too vague

Question 166

What does a writ of habeas corpus do?

1. It requires an explanation to the Court why a citizen is being held.
2. It justifies the imprisonment of an alleged criminal without the need to inform him or her of the reason, in order to better protect the community from a potential threat.
3. It gives the legislative power to asses the guilt of an individual who has committed a crime.
4. It allows the Congress to punish citizens for violation of ex post facto laws.

Answer 166

1.

Question 167

Which of the following is true concerning the process of becoming a U.S. citizen?
A test is given to determine language skill and civic knowledge.
Being born on U.S. soil is not enough to be naturalized as a citizen.
One can be naturalized without gaining basic proficiency in English.
Few people gain permanent residency before being naturalized.

Answer 167

A test is given to determine language skill and civic knowledge

Question 168

In unit 2, which of the following is emphasized as the most important tool available to help individuals become effective participants in the political process?
Study to establish strong personal beliefs
The ability to contact and be heard by their elected representatives
By receiving accurate and timely information
The natural desire to engage in politics

Answer 168

By receiving accurate and timely information

Question 169

A law makes it illegal to burn Bibles, but not other books, in public parks. How is this not consistent with the guarantees in the First Amendment?
The law is not content neutral and gives one book precedence over another.
The law is not the least drastic means available.
The law imposes prior restraint.
The law is too vague.

Answer 169

The law is not content neutral and gives one book precendence over another.

Question 170

In consideration of reciprocity, which of the following examples is a reasonable limitation on one’s rights and freedoms as discussed in the lesson?

1. a person not being allowed to hand out flyers that give a negative perspective of a new company coming into the community
2. a person not being allowed to build a campfire in the forest simply because there is a high chance of forest fires.
3. a person not being allowed to write an angry letter to his or her state government leaders about their position on taxes and government spending
4. a person not being allowed to protest the local abortion clinic and make a point about his or her pro-life views

Answer 170

2.

Question 171

What is civic dialogue?

1. A group deciding something is good and it establishes expectations, customs, and ideals as a part of what society values.
2. The notion that people, by nature, are political animals.
3. A statement by Aristotle, stating that if the people have an overly broad willingness to participate in the political process, a democratic society cannot function properly.
4. The idea that politics is not just a set of stereotypical deals made by the rich and powerful.

Answer 171

1.

Question 172

Which of the following is covered by the Constitutional guarantee of due process?

1. Every individual is free to express him or herself in the political process.
2. Individuals are guaranteed the right to participate in the political process, especially through voting.
3. Those who are accused of crimes will have a fair trial.

Answer 172

3.

Question 173

According to Adam Smith’s notion of the invisible hand, which of the following is the best way to enhance national wealth?

1. National wealth is best achieved by everyone seeking his or her own self-interest.
2. National wealth is best enhanced by government regulation of imports, which protect domestic industries and jobs.
3. National wealth is best enhanced by maintaining a strong military in order to protect that wealth.
4. National wealth is best obtained by controlled harvesting of natural resources such as oil, metals, timber, and so on.

Answer 173

1.

Question 174

What did the Founders believe was essential for the American government to succeed?
Civic Virtue from its citizens
A democratic form of government
A strong military
Great national wealth.

Answer 174

Civic virtue from its citizens

Question 175

Where did the phrase separation of church and state originate or where was it first used?
Supreme Court decisions about the establishment of religion
a letter written by Thomas Jefferson
the body of the Constitution
the First Amendment

Answer 175

a letter written by Thomas Jefferson

Question 176

The phrase “the right to swing my fist ends where the other man’s nose” exemplifies which of the following principles?

1. The right to political speech and expression is highly protected by the Supreme Court.
2. Individuals have rights, but also have obligations to others in society.
3. Society cannot limit rights even if harm to others is the result.
4. Rights are natural and are not “granted” by government.

Answer 176

2.

Question 177

Congress passes a law preventing individuals from engaging in particular forms of speech or expression because it is afraid the things they say or express MIGHT turn out to be illegal. Why would the Supreme Court find such a law unconstitutional?

1. It is too vague.
2. It isn’t content neutral.
3. It places a prior restraint on the expression.
4. It doesn’t have a clear secular purpose.

Answer 177

3.

Question 178

A law bans the sale of wooden poles and nails to prevent people from building crosses which they might burn on people’s lawns. How is this not consistent with the guarantees in the First Amendment?
The law is too vague.
The law is not content neutral.
The law imposes prior restraint.
The law is not the least drastic means available.

Answer 178

The law is not the least drastic means avilable

Question 179

A law that forbids bands from playing in concerts when there is evidence that the band has previously engaged in illegal forms of expression is put in force. How is this not consistent with the guarantees in the First Amendment?
The law is not the least drastic means available.
The law is too vague.
The law imposes prior restraint.
The law is not content neutral.

Answer 179

The law imposes prior restraint