The UK Political System Flashcards
What is the definition of Politics?
Politics is, in essence, the process by which individuals and groups with divergent interests and values make collective decisions.
Politics exists because of what two key features in human society?
Scarcity of resources
Competing interests and values
Define authority
The right to take a particular course of action
Define power
The ability to do something or make something happen
What are the 4 types of power
Absolute power
Persuasive power
Legitimate power
Coercive power
Define Absolute power
The unlimited ability to do as one wishes and this exists only in theory
Define persuasive power
The ability to persuade others that a course of action is the right one
Define legitimate power
It involves others accepting that an individual’s right to make decisions, perhaps as a result of an election
Define coercive power
when you press others into complying, using laws and penalties
What are the three types of authority?
Traditional
Charismatic
Legal-rational
Define Traditional authority
Traditional authority is based on established traditions and customs
Define charismatic authority
Charismatic authority is based on the characteristics of leaders
Define Legal-rational authority
Legal-rational authority is granted by a formal process such as an election
This legal-rational authority is legitimised through free and fair elections
Define governance
A form of decision making which involves a wide range of institutions, networks and relationships
Define government
A) activity or system of governing a political unit.
B) The set of institutions that exercise authority and make the rules of a political unit
