Types of Government

Government:

The institution that makes LAWS.

***Questions to think about?How much control does the government have?Where does the power come from?Transfer of power? How much freedom do the people have?What about minorities?

Watch TCI video slide 10

Limited Government

Everyone must obey the laws, including those in authority. The Constitution limits our governments power Government’s power is limited

Unlimited Government

Leaders don’t have to follow the same laws as everyone else. Unjust or cruel exercise of authority or power Government’s power is unlimited

Democracy

“Government by the people” (1) The Government’s control is shaped by the people. (1) Ruled by many (2) Government leaders are elected by the country’s people

Rule by the majority – Directly: Everyone’s vote counts, majority rulesIndirectly: Everyone votes to elect people to represent their

interests in government Switzerland is a democracy, the United States is also a

Democracy.

Republic “Rule of law”

Most basic form: A country without a monarch A republic is different from the majority-rule of a democracy;

(1) A Republic exists to protect the rights of individuals. Government is limited by the law (constitution)

Tells government how it will be organized and how to operate (2) Constitutions guarantee certain rights to the people

The United States is a republic

Monarchy “Divine right of kings”

Parliamentary/ Constitutional: King/Queen is head if the government BUT citizens elect

members of parliament to RUN government (1) Kings/Queens must obey laws Ruled by many (2) Citizens vote to elect leaders of parliament http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FSrRbRUuLxA

Traditional/ Absolute: (1)The ruler has absolute power. (1) His or her word is the law (1) Ruled by one (2) People have no voice in national government. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x0m5D7ClEzg

Theocracy “Power of religion”

(1) A religious leader or council has ultimate power (1) Power comes from religious beliefRulers are chosen by the church (2) People are limited by religious law, as interpreted by the

government (2) Minorities may be discriminated againstIran and Afghanistan are a theocracy

Dictatorship “I am the law”

(1) A single person or small group has complete powerDictators seize power or are placed into a position of

authority by a group in society (1) Dictators hold power until they are overthrown (2) People have little to no freedom (2) Minorities are often discriminated againstNorth Korea is a dictatorship

Totalitarianism/Communism “Ultimate control”

(1) Government controls all aspects of their citizens’ livesDictatorship with unlimited authorityRule until death or removal (2) No freedom or choice for people including minorities)Burma is a totalitarian state