includes a wide range of terms for government, elections, and political systems, such as "constituents" (voters in a specific area) and "centrist" (one with moderate opinions). Other terms cover processes like "bipartisan" (supported by two parties) or concepts like the "separation of powers" (how branches of government monitor each other). Specific terms exist for different political actions, such as "malfeasance" (wrongful conduct by a public official) or "patronage" (business given by customers).
Key political terms
- Bipartisan: Supported by, or consisting of, two political parties.
- Checks and balances: A system where the three branches of government (legislative, executive, and judiciary) monitor and limit each other's powers.
- Centrist: A person with moderate political opinions and policies.
- Constituents: Voters in a specific area who can vote for a politician.
- Government: A group of people or a mechanism that steers an organized community, such as a state.
- Malfeasance: Wrongful conduct by a public official.
- Patronage: The business or support given to an establishment by its customers.
- Political science: The systematic study of governments, political institutions, and public policies.
- Separation of powers: The division of a government into branches, each with its own powers.
- Silent majority: The portion of the population that does not publicly express their opinions.
- Term of office: The length of time a person serves in a particular elected office.
In addition to the above,
there are many other terms
in the political glossary
that we will try to learn.
A monarchy is a form of government where a single person, the monarch, holds the highest position, typically as a king or queen. This role is usually hereditary, meaning it is passed down through a family, and the monarch reigns for life. Monarchies can be either absolute, where the monarch has unlimited power, or constitutional, where the monarch's power is limited by a constitution and they often serve a ceremonial role as head of state while an elected body holds political power.
Types of monarchy:
Absolute monarchy: The monarch has total and unchecked power, controlling all branches of government (executive, legislative, and judicial). Saudi Arabia is an example of an absolute monarchy.
Constitutional monarchy: The monarch is the head of state, but their power is restricted by a constitution. Real political power lies with an elected government, such as a parliament, and the monarch's role is largely symbolic. Examples include the United Kingdom, Japan, and Sweden.
Key features
- Hereditary succession: In most modern monarchies, the position of monarch is inherited, passing from parent to child.
- Head of state: The monarch is the official head of state, but not necessarily the head of government.
- Symbolic role: In a constitutional monarchy, the monarch provides a sense of stability, continuity, and national identity, but their functions are primarily ceremonial.
What is Democracy?
Democracy is a system of government where citizens have the power to rule, either directly or by electing representatives. The term, which comes from Greek words meaning "people" and "power," emphasizes that governmental authority rests with the people, who participate in decision-making and are free to choose their leaders in fair elections.
Key principles and types
- Power of the people: In a democracy, the power to elect rulers is in the hands of the people.
- Direct democracy: Citizens vote on laws and make decisions directly, though this is rare on a national scale and often seen in local matters.
- Representative democracy: Citizens elect representatives to make decisions and vote on their behalf. This is the most common form of democracy today, as seen in republics and constitutional monarchies.
- Rule of law and political equality: A true democracy respects the rights of all citizens and ensures that everyone has an equal voice in the political process.
- Accountability: Democratic institutions are transparent and accountable to the people they serve.
- Civil society: A strong civil society, including free and active media, is crucial for a healthy democracy, as it allows citizens to participate and hold their government accountable.
Let's take a look at Plato's Republic.
online reading
Plato's Republic is a Socratic dialogue exploring the nature of justice, virtue, and happiness by examining both an ideal city-state and the just individual. Through discussions, it proposes that justice is a state of inner harmony and balance, achieved when reason rules the soul, and the ideal city is ruled by philosopher-kings. The work includes famous concepts like the allegory of the cave, which illustrates the journey from ignorance to knowledge of the Forms.
What is a state?
What is a government?
What is Election and Eletoral System
What is Nationalism?
Nationalism is the strong feeling of love and loyalty to one's country, and the belief that one's nation should be independent and self-governing. It often involves a shared sense of identity, built on common culture, language, history, or other characteristics, and emphasizes the interests of the nation above those of others.
- Shared identity: A belief in a common heritage, culture, and language that unifies a population.
- Political sovereignty: The desire for national independence and self-governance, free from foreign rule.
- Loyalty and pride: A deep sense of pride and commitment to one's nation, often placed above other loyalties.
What is Capitalism?
What is Fascism?
What is Socialism?
What is Communism?
What is revolution?
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