Forms of Government Whos the Boss freedomthe opportunity
Forms of Government Who’s the Boss?
freedom—the opportunity to act spontaneously in a variety of fields outside the control of the government and other centers of potential domination
How does one Measure Freedom? Measured by the level of : Political rights: enable people to participate freely in the political process-- vote freely for distinct alternatives in legitimate elections compete for public office join political parties and organizations elect representatives who have a decisive impact on public policies--accountable to the electorate.
Freedom measured by the level of: Civil Rights/liberties: freedoms of expression and belief associational and organizational rights rule of law and personal autonomy without interference from the state.
What is Government A political organization authorized to make public policy, laws, regulations and conduct state affairs
Political science questions What are the purposes of govt? What do governments do (functions)? Who exercises political power (process)?
Government Protects citizens Provides safety net (social services) Interprets morals/religion for law Provides stable economy Represents citizens views Encourages unity, minimizes dissent
Classifying Governments
Rule by many, rule by few, rule by one Rule by Many Rule by the people or elected representatives Constitutional Democracy, Constitutional Monarchy United States, Kenya, Great Britain Rule by the few Totalitarianism, fascism, theocracy, dictatorship China, Libya Rule by one Absolute monarchy Swaziland, Nepal
KATHMANDU: Nepal's King Gyanendra and Queen Komal posing for photographs after Queen Komal was decorated with the nation's highest medal on Wednesday at the Narayanhiti Royal Palace in Katmandu. King Gyanendra was enthroned as the new King of Nepal after the royal palace massacre on June 1, 2001, where his brother King Birendra was gunned down along with eight other members of the royal family. — AP/PTI Mwai Kibaki 3 rd President of Kenya Incumbent Assumed office December 30, 2002 chief of state: Revolutionary Leader Col. Muammar Abu Minyar al-QADHAFI (since 1 September 1969)
Democracy: Liberal vs. Illiberal how a govt is elected vs. how a govt. behaves • Election leaders; elections are free &fair • Elect leaders; elections free and fair • Emphasize Individual rights (ex: speech, press, religion, ideas, property ownership) • Few civil/individual rights • Rule of law • constitution is supreme • Limited and transparent government • Minority groups not oppressed • Market or mixed economy (capitalism) • Rights that are protected only are for certain groups • Unchecked and concentrated presidential power • Constitution at whim of change (either of govt or of the majority)
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