Principles of Government Flashcards
What is government?
- The institution through which society makes and enforces its public policies
- Includes people who use their powers and those who have control over people
What is civics?
- The study of citizenship and government
- Educates about obligations and rights within a government
What are public policies?
Everything the government does
What is a constitution?
Body of fundamental laws setting out the principles, structures and processes of a government
- Outlines the powers of a government
- Written government plan
What are the 4 ways government acquire power?
- Force Theory
- Evolutionary Theory
- Divine Right Theory
- Social Contract Theory
What are the four purposed of government?
- Keeping Order
- Providing security
- Providing public services
- Guide the community
What are the three basic kinds of government power?
- Legislative
- Judicial
- Executive
Describe the “Force Theory”
-Claiming control over an area of land and everyone living there is forced to submit to their rule
Describe the “Evolutionary Theory”
- Says that The State developed naturally and that primitive families developed into tribes with a leader.
- Also says that The State began when agriculture began
Describe the “Divine Right Theory”
- God created the territory and God gave those of royal birth the right to rule.
- Have to obey the ruler as you would God
Describe the “Social Contract Theory”
- People voluntary agree with one another to create government. It should serve the will of the people.
- If the government abuses its power, the people may abolish it
How does a government Keep Order?
It passes and enforces laws and establishes and maintains a court system
How does a government Provide Security?
Prevents and fights crime and protects citizens from foreign attacks
How does a government Provide Public Services?
It sets up libraries, schools, hospitals, and provides public safety (fire department, Ambulance service)
How does a government guide the community?
-Managing the economy and conducting foreign relations
Describe legislative powers
The power to make laws and shape public policy
Describe Executive powers
Power to execute and enforce laws as well as to administer them
Describe judicial powers
Power to interpret laws and settle disputes about the laws
