KEYWORDS Flashcards
What is politics?
The activities associated with the governance of a state, especially the debate between parties having power.
What is governance?
A form of decision making which involves a wide range of institutions, networks & relationships.
What is the rule of law?
Legal theory holding the relationship between state & individual is governed by law, protecting the individual from arbitrary state action.
What is the Westminster model?
A form of government exemplified by Britain in which Parliament is sovereign, executive & legislative are fused and political power is centralised.
What is direct democracy?
Individuals express their opinion themselves and a decision is made based on ‘majority rule’.
What is representative democracy?
People elect representatives who make decisions on their behalf, acting on voter instruction. If voters are unsatisfied, reps are accountable, being removed at the next election.
What is pluralist democracy?
A system of government where there is competition between different groups who represent different concerns either as parties or pressure groups. Power is widely & evenly distributed across society rather than concentrated elites.
What is a democratic deficit?
Occurs when government (institutions) are insufficient in fulfilling the principles of democracy. As a result, less voting opportunities are available and public engagement of political processes declines.
What is a participation crisis?
A situation where a large proportion of the population don’t engage with the political process.
What is franchise/suffrage?
The right & ability to engage in politics & vote in an election.
What are think tanks?
Public policy research organisations that seek to influence government policy.
Who are lobbyists?
Members of professional organisations who are paid by third parties seeking access to government to influence decision makers in their (3rd party)’s favour.
How does politics occur?
Politics arises from acceptance of the simultaneous existence of different groups, hence different interests and different traditions, within a territorial unit under a common rule
What are civil liberties?
FUNDAMENTAL INDIVIDUAL RIGHTS & FREEDOMS THAT SHOULD BE PROTECTED FROM INTERFERENCE OR ENCROACHMENT BY THE STATE
What is an elective dictatorship?
WHERE THERE IS AN EXCESSIVE CONCENTRATION OF POWER IN THE EXECUTIVE BRANCHOF GOVERNMENT
