Y3 The Basis of Political Authority

Question 1

What is human nature?

Answer 1

Human nature is the fundamental set of psychological and behavioural characteristics that humans have, prior to moulding by the environment.

Human nature can be grouped to two separate categories, good and bad.
If human nature is good, that means that humans are naturally good without the influence of other human beings or society.
If human nature is bad, that means that we are fundamentally selfish and cruel, and require influence from society to behave contrary to our nature.

Question 2

What is the definition of the state of nature?

Answer 2

The state of nature is a hypothetical scenario where humans live together in the absence of a government.

Question 3

How do you think your belief about human nature implies what you think the state of nature is like?

You can select more than an option.

A If human nature is good, then the state of nature will be generally peaceful.

B If human nature is good, then the state of nature will be chaotic.

C If human nature is bad, then the state of nature will be chaotic and violent.

D If human nature is good, then the state of nature will still be disorganised.

Answer 3

A,C and D

Question 4

If you think human nature is good, which type of government is more likely to be justified?

Democracy or Dictatorship

Answer 4

Democracy

Question 5

If you think human nature is bad, which type of government is more likely to be justified?

Democracy or Dictatorship

Answer 5

Dictatorship.