Rules and Institutions Flashcards
What are the foundations of any political system?
Rules and institutions
What do rules determine in a political system?
How resources are distributed and how collective action is governed
What are the two types of rules mentioned?
- Formal laws
- Unwritten norms
What are institutions in the context of government?
Organizations through which governmental power is exercised
What do institutions ensure in a political system?
Rules are enforced, decisions are made, and public services are provided
What is the role of formal rules?
Establish order and predictability
Give an example of formal rules.
- Tax laws
- Election laws
What is a key example of an unwritten norm in U.S. politics?
The tradition of a peaceful transfer of power between presidents
What are the three branches of government in the United States?
- Legislative branch (Congress)
- Executive branch (President and administration)
- Judicial branch (Courts)
What is the function of the legislative branch?
Makes laws and determines how resources are allocated
What role does the executive branch play?
Enforces laws and manages government functions
What does the judicial branch do?
Interprets laws and ensures they are applied fairly
How have institutions expanded beyond the original framework of the Constitution?
By addressing modern challenges with new federal agencies
Name two federal agencies established to address modern challenges.
- Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
- Federal Reserve
What historical events contributed to the expansion of government institutions?
- Industrialization
- Economic crises
- War
- Social movements
What significant policies led to the creation of numerous federal agencies during the Great Depression?
President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s New Deal policies
What is the importance of rules and institutions in society?
Maintaining order, ensuring fairness, and promoting stability
Fill in the blank: Without clear rules, there would be _______.
confusion and conflict over resource distribution and decision-making
What do rules and institutions together create?
A framework that allows societies to function efficiently and adapt to new challenges
How have rules and institutions evolved over time?
They have adapted to new societal needs
True or False: Institutions have remained static since the founding of the United States.
False
