Introduction to Political science quiz # 3

Defining characteristics of an Oligarchy

A few people ruling in the interest of selves

How does an Absolute Monarchy justify its power?

by the Divine Right of Kings which states that God has selected the leaders as rulers of the land

Kleptocracy

"Rule by theft," where those in power seek only to drain the state of assets and resources

Fact

Most countries are republics But not all are democratic And not all employ federalism

How do absolute monarchs differ from constitutional monarchs in the way they acquire power and in their ability to use power?

-Absolute and Constitutional Monarchs both acquire power through inheritance or abdication.-An Absolute Monarch has the ability to use unlimited power.-A Constitutional Monarch has limited power through a constitution/set of laws

Defining characteristics of a Monarchy

-One person ruling in the interest of all- Constitutional monarchy-a government in which a king/queen has power that is limited by a parliament but he/she inherited power from a family member limited monarchy-A government in which a monarch agrees to share power with a parliament and abide by a constitution; also known as a constitutional monarchy. absolute monarchy-a government in which a king/queen has all power that he/she inherited from a family member One ruler designated by bloodline

Defining characteristics of a Democracy

-The rule of many in the interest of selves

What are two benefits of federalism?

1. The governmental system of checks and balances 2. promotes policy innovation and political participation

Democracy key characteristics

1)Popular Accountability of Government •Govt. is based on the consent of the people. •People have a right to hold their govt. responsible for their activities 2)Political Competition •Voters have real choices between candidates/parties during elections. •There are few barriers to entering into politics & an election 3)Alternation in Power •Peaceful transfer of power occasionally occurs; •Election results are respected 4)Uncertain Electoral Outcomes •Elections are not pre-determined; uncertainty/doubt exists who will win an election •Voters themselves can switch their party preference from election to election •Popular Representation •the idea that representatives are supposed to advocate for their constituents - be their voice and make decisions based on the interests of the people, not act out of self interest 4)Majority Decisions •The idea that government decisions are usually based on what the majority of the people want (or what is in their interest) without violating the rights of the minority. 5)Right of Dissent and Disobedience •Right of the people to protest against, bring attention to, criticize, and/or resist what they perceive as unjust, discriminatory, or in violation of the social contract that liberal democratic regimes are based on (review Classical Liberalism again) 6)Popular Equality •The idea that citizens of a country possess equal political rights such as "one person, one vote" or the right to petition government (ask govt to do something), run for office, etc. 7)Popular Consultation •The idea that govt occasionally seeks input from the masses (via public opinion polls, town hall meetings, communicating with societal groups) before it decides policy/law 8)Free Press •The role of a free & quality media is vital to democracy because the press serves as both a watchdog of govt behavior (alerts us to danger), & gives us the information necessary to hold govt responsible/accountable for its behavior (we use this info to assess how well govt does its job and fulfills its responsibilities)

Name three characteristics of a unitary form of government

1. Centralization of Powers 2.Uniformity of Laws 3. Single and Simple Government 4. Flexible Constitutions

Summary of Political Regime Choices/ How do countries institutionalize power?

1. Countries must choose what kind of political regime they want to become. 2. Common choices include democracy, totalitarianism, and authoritarianism. (Dominate 20th century flavors) 3. Each type of political regime has its own key features. And, there are sub-catagories​ of the main three. 4. Notably, consolidating democracy is difficult. Various reasons cause new democracies to fail.

What are the 4 Authoritarianism Characteristics? (Hint: think Switzerland, Singapore)

1. Government is concerned with controlling people's public life in order to retain political power. Government is lead by a small group that minimizes popular input. 2. Not usually ideological. 3. Regime does not try to control everything. Many cultural, social, economic and private matters are left up to individuals- as long as they DO NOT threaten regime.4. Some democratic tendencies may exist (courts, opposition, parties, elections) BUT they are controlled by the regime. Which country can be

Explain two reasons why a unitary system is beneficial?

1.Education Standards can be high 2.Taxation is the same nationwide, so firms and individuals cannot flee to low-tax states

Constitutional Monarchy

A King or Queen is the official head of state but power is limited by a constitution.

Theocracy

A government controlled by religious leaders

Oligarchy

A government ruled by a few powerful people (usually the most rich and powerful men)

Monarchy

A government ruled by a king or queen

Confederacy

A loose union of independent states; name of government used by the southern states that seceded during the Civil War

Authoritarianism

A political system in which a small group of individuals exercises power over the state without being constitutionally responsible to the public. Definition: (In between Democracy and Totalitarianism, the middle child) Government has authority over its people about politics. They do not want a challenge to their position, they know what they're doing. They allow a free private life.

Totalitarianism

A political system in which the government has total control over the lives of individual citizens. Rule by a highly ideological government that wants total control of its people. Key characteristics: State attempts total control of people's private & public lives Govt controls every aspect of life in order to remold society & achieve govt goals This includes what people learn, what academic majors & careers they have, their employment, the structure of their families, what they say and do in terms of politics, and even what the thoughts of the people How? Via control of information, propaganda, pervasive use of secret police to monitor people, repression of freedom, and civilian use of the military defeat critics of the state, its ideology, & its practices A totalitarian state operates under an all-encompassing ideology tries to restructure society according to goals of the ideology & create the 'ideal man' Therefore there is only one official version of the news, only one way to understand history/politics/economic, only one way to behave/think Organized Terror: Critics/Opponents are labeled "enemies of the people" & "threats against society" qall are required to believe in the state ideology with use of secret police, peer pressure, no judicial protections, torture & pervasive surveillance to find opponents

Absolute Monarchy

A system of government in which the head of state is a hereditary position and the king or queen has almost complete power

This type of monarch answers only to himself or God.

Absolute

What is an example of each type of monarchy?

Absolute monarchy- Sultan of Brunei Semi-constitutional monarchy- Morocco in Africa Constitutional monarchy-The United Kingdom,The Netherlands. Commonwealth realms (constitutional monarchies in personal union)- Canada Australia Subnational monarchies (traditional)- South Africa

Political Regime

An assemblage of political structures that constitute a state; the form of government administered by those in power.

Weber's definition of the state

An entity which successfully claims a monopoly on the legitimate use of lethal violence. Weber defined the modern state as a community that successfully claims a monopoly over violence within a geographical area, which required it to have legitimate and legal authority. The concepts of violence, territoriality, and legitimacy are the definitive factors of Weber's modern state.

Example of Direct democracy

Ancient Greece

This type of monarch has power that is limited by a parliament or a grouping of laws.

Constitutional

How is a constitutional monarchy different from a regular, traditional monarchy?

Constitutional monarch example is UK, the Queen has very limited power, and actually cannot decide any law. Traditional monarchy is like Saudi Arabia. Decide all politicly decisions (often based on a theocracy).

This type of monarch becomes king when his dad dies.

Constitutional or absolute

Example of Theocracy

Contemporary examples of theocracies include Saudi Arabia, Iran, and the Vatican

Example of Dictatorship

Cuba

Dictatorship

Definition: Rule by one that works as an autocrat, like the country is his personal property. Lots of corruption.

What factors are associated with an authoritarian regime making a transition to a democracy?

Democratization tended to happen when: Authoritarian countries experienced economic development Why? Because this lead to higher rates of education, a larger middle class, and some people became financially independent of the govt so their ability to criticize the regime & advocate for freedom was possible Therefore, when authoritarian regimes permit relatively free markets, they become ripe for some form of democracy; driven by growth of a middle class Plus, in the era of global news & the internet, regimes gradually tended to ease up and permit democratic reforms (to look good to the international community, appease stronger states like the US, attract investment) But this scenario does not apply to Petro-states (oil rich countries) The regime is able to substitute people's desire for self-determination & democracy with economic security (often nice social programs like free college, free healthcare, housing subsidies, updated infrastructure, etc

What are the weaknesses of choosing a federal form of government?

Duplicated services Lack of uniformity Local governments may not have sufficient resources by themselves (like lack of response in a pandemic cough cough)

Complete the models of democracy

Elite- argues that the key policy decisions are made by a tiny minority qBecause politics is too complex, elites make the decisions that the masses follow Pluralism- argues that political decisions are largely driven by interest groups According to pluralists, interest groups are the great avenues of democracy, making sure government listens societal groups Govt. decisions are the result of interest group competition polyarchy- is the synthesis that interest groups compete (pluralism), but that each group is run by elites (elitism)

Example of Oligarchy

Examples of this system include South Africa under apartheid, Liberia under Americo-Liberians, the Sultanate of Zanzibar, and Rhodesia, where the installation of oligarchic rule by the descendants of foreign settlers was primarily regarded as a legacy of various forms of colonialism.

How is a civil society important to democratic governance

Generally, civil society has been referred to as a political association governing social conflict through the imposition of rules that restrain citizens from harming one another. In the classical period, the concept was used as a synonym for the good society, and seen as indistinguishable from the state.

Authortarianism key characteristics

Government is lead by a small group that minimizes popular input Elections & other democratic practices may occur but the outcome of elections are pre-determined and political activities by the people are largely controlled so that the regime isn't embarrassed or their position of power threatened They will be responsive to some societal pressures but not for the principle of representation (but rather to appease those groups necessary to stay in power) Not usually ideological Authoritarian regimes tend to be pragmatic - they use an ideology when it is useful, discard it when it if necessary, and switch to another ideology if it helps the regime realize its economic goals, establish social order, &/or retain power Desire control of the public arena but not the private lives of the masses These regimes do not try to control everything - many cultural, social, economic and private matters are left up to individuals as long as they DO NOT threaten or criticize publicly the political hold of the regime Government is concerned with controlling peoples' public life (the world outside your home) such as the media & civil society (ei. Civil rights & public interest groups such as NRA) because they want to control their image & do not want threats/opposition to arise Some democratic tendencies may exist to appear democratic to the world - such as courts, opposition parties, and elections BUT they are often weak & subservient to the regime

What are the key defining characteristics of a federal political system?

Government power is divided and shared among difference levels of government Some autonomy is given to local, state and regional governments. (with some powers that cannot be easily overridden by central government) All levels have power to tax

What does it mean for the state to institutionalize power

Institutional power exists where authority has been approved by a society and accepted as legitimate. Governments exercise institutional power by, for example, creating and enforcing laws, collecting taxes, declaring war, and making education compulsory. In the USA, the President, Congress, and judges all act with the institutional power of the government.

What factors are associated with democratic failure? why (explain the logic)

It happens too soon - often critical pre-requisites are missing such as a large, educated middle class who can participate in politics, demand government accountability, and serve as a moderating force in political debates Unfortunately, many states that attempt democracy lack this critical ingredient therefore There isn't a moderating force in society to stabilize politics Instead radicalism takes hold, and two conflicting sectors (the very well versus the poor) of society use the political arena to fight over very different agendas with little chance of compromise Informed participation is also lacking creating a void too often filled by populism that attempts to manipulate people's emotions What develops instead? The newly enfranchised and unsophisticated voters (who lack training in conducting political research & do not understand the new constitution) often fall for the extravagant or extremist promises of demagogues, who offer simple solutions to get the votes of the gullible Extreme/radical political parties emerge nSeveral characteristics tend to block democracy: Poverty - survival concerns trump abstract political principles, plus its hard to stay informed & participate in politics when you work 60+ hours/week Major inequality - when super rich elites exist in a country of massive poverty, resentment builds leading to calls for overthrowing the system (revolution) rather than working within the democratic system (reform) Low education levels - democracy requires an informed populace with a basic civics education so that they understand the powers & institutions of government, the implications of policy & law, and therefore participates Oil - govt co-opt the people by providing generous social programs & jobs So people prefer economic security compared to the abstract idea of democracy Tribalism - promotes societal division & violence instead of compromise Small civil society - few societal groups exist that hold govt accountable No earlier democratic experience - similar to learning to ride a bike, it takes practice before you get it right No democratic neighbors - no examples to model after & drawn into wars

Example of Absolute Monarchy

King of Saudi Arabia

Liberal Democracy

Liberal democracies refer to governments that are based on Classical Liberal ideology. The purpose of govt is the protection of people's natural rights of life, liberty, & property; govt. is constrained by law 1. Popular accountability of government 2. Political competition 3. Alternation in power 4. Uncertain electoral outcomes 5. Popular representation 6. Majority decisions 7. Right of dissent and disobedience 8. Popular equality 9. Popular consultation 10. Free press "Majority opinion wins as long as it doesn't impinge on the rights of the minority."

What are the weaknesses of choosing a unitary form of government?

Local governments may lack resources to meet many needs, taxes, resources Local groups feel ignored by central government Important decisions not made locally Disregard local differencesLittle room for policy changes

What are the benefits of choosing a federal form of government?

Lower levels of government may be better able to solve particular, localized problems Clear lines of authority useful People can move to live in areas that suit their preferenceIn large countries with diversity, federalism enables easier management

According to Aristotle's Typology, what is the difference between polity and democracy?

Many govern, but, a Polity "rules with the interest of all," and a Democracy "rules in the interest of selves."

Which country can be described as an authoritarian regime from 1929-2000?

Mexico"El Porfiriato"

What are the six political systems that Aristotle outlines in his typology?

Monarchy vs. Tyranny, =One governs Monarchy rules for the people , common interest tyranny- rules for the self, despotic, perverted (selfish interest) Aristocracy vs. Oligarchy, =A few govern Aristocracy-common interest Oligarchy-selfish interests Polity vs. Democracy, =Many govern Polity-Common interest Democracy-Selfish interests

This type of monarch is elected by all the people.

None

Defining characteristics of Tyranny

One person ruling in the interest of selves

Representative Democracy

People do not rule directly (do not decide policy/law) Instead people elect other -representatives-- to make laws and govern on the behalf of the people (do the job of governing) So reps are selected to represent the interests of their constituents - aka, be their voice in DC & Sacramento But two models of representation exist: delegate vs. trustee In the delegate model, representatives are supposed to vote according to the majority opinion held by their constituents In the trustee model, reps vote on what they believe is in the long term best interest of their constituents So delegates simply reflect popular opinion, trustees are supposed to make decisions based on reason, intelligence &/or ethical principles

How does a Constitutional Monarchy use power?

To only use power where it is constitutionally given, otherwise power is given to Parliament.

Authortarianism

Rule by a small group that seek to control public life in order to retain their hold on power. Subtypes: Military-military authoritarian regimes are those "governed by a coalition of military officers and technocrats who act pragmatically (rather than ideologically) within the limits of their bureaucratic mentality." Burma, Niger Personalist-regimes are characterized by arbitrary rule and authority exercised "mainly through patronage networks and coercion rather than through institutions and formal rules". Personalistic authoritarian regimes have been seen in post-colonial Africa. Libya, Venezuela Dominant party-dominant-party system, or one-party dominant system, is a system where there is "a category of parties/political organisations that have successively won election victories and whose future defeat cannot be envisaged or is unlikely for the foreseeable future Russia, Zimbabwe Single Party- A one-party system is a form of government where the country is ruled by a single political party, meaning only one political party exists and the forming of other political parties is forbidden. ... In this case opposition parties against the dominant ruling party are allowed, but have no real chance of gaining power. China, Cuba 1. Diluted totalitarianism 2.Governed by a small group 3. Rarely has a firm ideology to sell 4.Institutes command obedience order 5. Allows little to no voice for citizens 6. Has some trappings of democracy with little function

Defining characteristics of an Aristocracy

Several persons ruling in the interest of all

What is the major difference between a constitutional monarchy versus a traditional/absolute monarchy?

The difference between absolute monarchy and constitutional monarchy is that in the absolute monarchy, the monarch holds the supreme or absolute powers, whereas in the constitutional monarchy, the head of state is a hereditary or elected monarch. ... In other words, the king or queen of an absolute monarchy is a dictator.

How is middle class important to democratic survival

The middle class promotes efficient and honest delivery of government services, as well as forward-looking public investments—in education and infrastructure, for example—that benefit all of society rather than only special interests. Such good governance sets the stage for economic growth

What is the structure/function of a Constitutional Monarchy?

The monarch has symbolic power over the country while the Parliament has decision-making power. (Great Britain)

Illiberal Democracy

The regime is elected to power but it lacks democratic qualities such as civil liberties, political rights and limits on government

According to Aristotle which form of government is best?

The right kind of democracy, if you will, is a polity: An ideal democracy that governs for the interests of all, not just the leadership.

Defining characteristics of a Polity

The rule of many in the interest of all and the best for of government

democracy

There must exist various ways for people to influence government(such as via elections, protest, running for office, petition (request from) government, supporting a campaign)

How does an Absolute Monarchy acquire Power?

Through inheritance of a dead family member or abdication

How does an Absolute Monarch use power?

To enforce his/her absolute rule

Explain Unitary System vs. a Federal System of government

Unitary: Centralized power in the national government (capital city) Federal: Divide and share power between a nation's capital and lower levels of governmentUSA, Brazil, Argentina, Australia

Example of Constitutional Monarchy

United Kingdom and Japan

example of federation

United States

Webers monopoly on violence or monopoly on use of physical force

Weber describes the state as any organization that succeeds in holding the exclusive right to use, threaten, or authorize physical force against residents of its territory. Such a monopoly, according to Weber, must occur via a process of legitimation.

Direct Democracy

Where all citizens vote on government policies may occur through referendums (mass vote on an issue/law akin to the California proposition process) *Very rare* - examples include New England town meetings but is difficult to achieve given the size of the U.S.

What were Aristotle's two questions in his typology?

Who rules/governs? Who benefits from this rule (in whose interests)?

federation

a group of states with a central government but independence in internal affairs.

Republic

a state in which supreme power is held by the people and their elected representatives, and which has an elected or nominated president rather than a monarch.

Meritocracy

a system in which promotion is based on individual ability or achievement. Ruler has earned the right to be in charge.

Third Wave of Democracy

a wave of democratization that is characterized by the defeat of dictatorial or totalitarian rulers in South America, Eastern Europe, and some parts of Africa. Countries did start the transition to democracy, but it was never self-sustaining, they did not finalize the institution over time. The USA experienced euphoria because they thought the world was converting to Democracy.1970s and 1980s: Countries become independent from Britain after WW2, by 1970s they have this third wave of democratization. Happens again once the Soviet Union falls.

anarchy

absence of government

This type of monarch has unlimited or all power.

absolute

polity

an organized society, such as a nation, state, church, or other organization, having a specific form of government for the benefit of many.

This type of monarch has limited types of power.

constitutional monarch

Aristotle worst form of government

democracy

Constitutional Democracy

government power is limited by the constitution All people, even those in government, must abide by the law

civil society

society created when citizens are allowed to organize and express their views publicly as they engage in an open debate about public policy. Civil society refers to clubs and associations that form to try to make an impact on our society. Civil refers to civilians compromising the membership of the group (people like you and me), and the society refers to the goal of the group -- to make a change or improve society. The Political philosopher Hegel referred to it as a realm distinct from the state on one hand and the family on the other. Civil society are therefore voluntary clubs that are open to almost anyone joining, and they operate in the public. Examples include the National Rifle Association (NRA), SurfRider, Black Lives Matter, Amnesty International, Mothers Against Drunk Driving, religious institutions, Associated Students of Ventura College, the VC Political Science club, etc.

difference between dictatorship and totalitarian state

they are basically the same dictatorship has one ruler totalitarian states usually have multiple rulers Government in charge of everything citizens have no say