AP Comp Gov Unit 1

Empirical Data

Empirical data refers to information that is obtained through observation, experimentation, or measurement, rather than through theoretical or logical reasoning alone.

Normative Data

Data that represents typical or average performance or behavior within a specific population.

Quantitative Analysis

The use of mathematical and statistical methods to analyze numerical data.

Qualitative Analysis

The use of non-numerical data such as interviews, observations, and surveys to analyze and interpret patterns and themes

Correlation

A statistical measure that indicates the degree to which two variables are related to each other

Positive Correlation

A relationship between two variables in which an increase in one variable is associated with an increase in the other variable.

Negative Correlation

A relationship between two variables in which an increase in one variable is associated with a decrease in the other variable.

Causation

A relationship between two variables in which one variable directly influences or causes a change in the other variable.

Human Development Index (HDI)

A composite statistic of life expectancy, education, and per capita income indicators, which are used to rank countries into four tiers of human development.

Gini Index

A measure of income inequality within a population, ranging from 0 (perfect equality) to 1 (perfect inequality).

Gross Domestic Product (GDP)

The total value of goods and services produced within a country's borders in a given time period.

Freedom House

An organization that conducts research and advocacy on democracy, political freedom, and human rights.

Transparency International

An organization that monitors and publicizes corporate and political corruption in international development.

Failed (or Fragile) States Index

An annual ranking of countries based on their vulnerability to conflict and instability, as well as their capacity to provide basic services and maintain the rule of law.

United Kingdom - Type of government

* The UK has a parliamentary system of government with a constitutional monarchy.
* It is a member of the European Union and has a strong tradition of democracy and rule of law.

Russia - Type of Government

* Russia has a federal semi-presidential republic system of government.
* It has a strong centralized government and a history of authoritarianism.
* It is also a major player in international politics.

Iran - Type of Government

* Iran has an Islamic republic system of government.
* It is a theocracy with a supreme leader and a president.
* It has a complex relationship with the international community due to its nuclear program and support for militant groups.

Mexico - Type of Government

* Mexico has a federal presidential representative democratic republic system of government.
* It has a history of corruption and drug violence, but has made progress in recent years towards reform and strengthening its democracy.

China - Type of Government

* China has a single-party socialist republic system of government.
* It has a strong centralized government and a mixed economy.
* It is also a major player in international politics and has been criticized for its human rights record.

Nigeria - Type of Government

* Nigeria has a federal presidential representative democratic republic system of government.
* It has a history of political instability and corruption, but has made progress in recent years towards reform and strengthening its democracy.
* It is also a major player in African politics.

Political Scientists

These are professionals who study political systems, behavior, and institutions.

* They use various methods to analyze and interpret political phenomena, and their work is essential for understanding how governments and societies function.

Surverys

Political scientists use this to gather information about public opinion, voting behavior, and other political attitudes and behaviors.

Interviews

They may conduct this with politicians, government officials, or other experts in the field.

Case Studies

Political scientists use these to examine specific political events or phenomena in detail. This method involves analyzing a single case in depth to gain insights into broader political trends.

Quantitative Analysis

Political scientists use these to analyze large amounts of data. This approach allows them to identify patterns and trends in political behavior and institutions.

Political Theory

The study of political ideas and concepts. Political scientists in this field examine the philosophical foundations of political systems and institutions.

Comparative Politics

The study of different political systems and institutions around the world. Political scientists in this field compare and contrast different political systems to identify similarities and differences.

International Relations

The study of the relationships between different countries and the ways in which they interact with each other. Political scientists in this field examine issues such as diplomacy, war, and trade.

Public Policy

The study of how governments make decisions and implement policies. Political scientists in this field examine the ways in which policies are created and how they affect society.

Political Systems

Refers to the set of institutions, laws, and procedures that are used to govern a country or a group of people. It includes the distribution of power, decision-making processes, and the relationship between the government and its citizens.

States

A political entity that has a defined territory, a permanent population, a government, and the ability to enter into relations with other states.

Regimes

Refers to the set of rules, institutions, and practices that govern a country or a political system. It includes the type of government, the distribution of power, and the relationship between the government and its citizens.

Government

Refers to the group of people who are responsible for making and enforcing laws and policies in a country or a political system. It includes the executive, legislative, and judicial branches.

Nation

Refers to a group of people who share a common culture, language, history, or identity. It can also refer to a political entity that is based on a shared sense of identity.

Democracy - Key Characteristics

* Power is held by the people through free and fair elections
* Protection of individual rights and freedoms
* Rule of law and independent judiciary
* Transparency and accountability in government
* Civil society and freedom of the press

Authoritarianism - Key Characteristics

* Power is held by a single leader or small group
* Limited or no protection of individual rights and freedoms
* Rule by force or coercion
* Lack of transparency and accountability in government
* Suppression of civil society and freedom of the press

Types of Authoritarian Regimes

Monarchies, Military Juntas, Single-Party States, Personalist Regimes, Theocracies, and Hybrid Regimes,

Monarchy

These are regimes in which power is held by a hereditary monarch or royal family. Examples include Saudi Arabia and Brunei.

Military Juntas

These are regimes in which power is held by a group of military officers who have seized control of the government. Examples include Myanmar and Egypt.

Single-Party States

These are regimes in which power is held by a single political party that controls all aspects of government. Examples include China and North Korea.

Personalist Regimes

These are regimes in which power is held by a single individual who dominates the political system. Examples include Russia under Vladimir Putin and Turkey under Recep Tayyip Erdogan.

Theocracies

These are regimes in which power is held by religious leaders or institutions. Examples include Iran and Saudi Arabia.

Hybrid Regimes

These are regimes that combine elements of authoritarianism and democracy. Examples include Russia and Venezuela.

Types of Democratic Regimes

Direct Democracy, Representative Democracy, Presidential Democracy, Parliamentary Democracy, Semi-Presidential Democracy, Consensus Democracy and Hybrid Democracy

Direct Democracy

A form of democracy in which citizens directly participate in the decision-making process. This is typically done through referendums or other forms of direct voting.

Representative Democracy

A form of democracy in which citizens elect representatives to make decisions on their behalf. This is the most common form of democracy in the world.

Presidential Democracy

A form of democracy in which the president is both the head of state and the head of government. The president is elected by the people and has significant powers, including the power to veto legislation.

Parliamentary Democracy

A form of democracy in which the parliament is the primary decision-making body. The prime minister is the head of government, while the monarch or president is the head of state.

Semi-Presidential Democracy

A form of democracy in which the president and prime minister share power. The president is the head of state, while the prime minister is the head of government.

Consensus Democracy

A form of democracy in which decisions are made through consensus rather than majority vote. This is often used in countries with diverse populations or in situations where there is a need for compromise.

Hybrid Democracy

A form of democracy that combines elements of different types of democratic regimes. This is often seen in countries that are transitioning from authoritarianism to democracy.

Democratization

* The process of transitioning a government from an authoritarian regime to a democratic one.
* It involves the establishment of democratic institutions, such as free and fair elections, an independent judiciary, and a free press.
* It is a complex and often difficult process that can take many years to achieve.

###

Characteristics of Democracy

Popular Sovereignty, Free and Fair Elections, Rule of Law, Protection of Individual Rights, Separation of Powers, Independent Judiciary, Civilian Control of the Military, Transparency and Accountability, Pluralism and Diversity, and Active Citizen Participation

Popular Sovereignty

The ultimate power lies with the people who elect their representatives to govern them.

Free and Fair Elections

Elections are conducted in a free and fair manner, where every citizen has the right to vote and contest elections.

Rule of Law

The government is bound by the law and is accountable to the people. No one is above the law, including the government.

Protection of Individual Rights

Democracy ensures the protection of individual rights and freedoms, such as freedom of speech, religion, and association.

Separation of Powers

The government is divided into three branches - the legislature, the executive, and the judiciary - to ensure a system of checks and balances.

Independent Judiciary

The judiciary is independent of the other branches of government and ensures that the law is upheld.

Civilian Control of the Military

The military is subordinate to civilian authority and does not interfere in the political process.

Transparency and Accountability

The government is transparent in its actions and accountable to the people for its decisions.

Pluralism and Diversity

Democracy respects and values diversity and pluralism, including diversity of opinions, beliefs, and cultures.

Active Citizen Participation

Democracy encourages active citizen participation in the political process, including the right to protest and petition the government.

United Kingdom - Brief History

* The United Kingdom is a constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary democracy.
* Its political system has evolved over centuries, with the monarch's role becoming largely ceremonial and the Prime Minister and Parliament holding most of the power.

Mexico - Brief History

* Mexico is a federal presidential representative democratic republic.
* Its current political system was established in 1917 with the adoption of the Mexican Constitution, which created a federal system of government with three branches: executive, legislative, and judicial.

Nigeria - Brief History

* Nigeria is a federal presidential representative democratic republic.
* Its current political system was established in 1999 with the adoption of the Nigerian Constitution, which created a federal system of government with three branches: executive, legislative, and judicial.

China - Brief History

* China is a one-party socialist state, with the Communist Party of China holding a monopoly on political power.
* The country's political system is based on a combination of Marxist-Leninist ideology and traditional Chinese political culture.

Iran - Brief History

* Iran is an Islamic republic with a theocratic political system.
* The country's political system is based on the principles of Shia Islam, with ultimate authority vested in the Supreme Leader, who is the highest-ranking political and religious figure in the country.

Russia - Brief History

* Russia is a federal semi-presidential republic. Its current political system was established in 1993 with the adoption of the Russian Constitution, which created a federal system of government with three branches: executive, legislative, and judicial.
* The President is the head of state and the Prime Minister is the head of government.

Different Sources of Power

Constitution, Religion, Military Forces, Legislature, and Popular Support

Constitution

* A set of fundamental principles and rules that govern a country or organization.
* It serves as a source of power in politics by establishing the framework for the distribution of power and the protection of individual rights.
* For example, the United States Constitution outlines the separation of powers between the executive, legislative, and judicial branches of government, and guarantees certain rights such as freedom of speech and religion.

Religion

* A system of beliefs and practices concerning the nature of the divine and the purpose of human existence.
* It serves as a source of power in politics by influencing the values and beliefs of individuals and communities, and by providing a basis for moral and ethical decision-making.
* For example, the Catholic Church has historically wielded significant political power in countries such as Italy and Spain, and religious groups have played a role in shaping policies on issues such as abortion and same-sex marriage.

Military Forces

* Organized groups of armed individuals who are trained to defend a country or organization.
* They serve as a source of power in politics by providing a means of coercion and defense, and by influencing foreign policy decisions.
* For example, the United States military is one of the most powerful in the world, and its actions have had significant political consequences in conflicts such as the Vietnam War and the Iraq War.

Legislature

* A governing body responsible for making laws and policies.
* It serves as a source of power in politics by representing the interests of different groups within a society, and by providing a means of checks and balances on the power of other branches of government.
* For example, the British Parliament is composed of the House of Commons and the House of Lords, and is responsible for passing laws and holding the government accountable.

Popular Support

* The level of public approval or endorsement for a particular political leader, party, or policy.
* It serves as a source of power in politics by providing legitimacy and a mandate for action, and by influencing the outcomes of elections and other political processes.
* For example, the election of Barack Obama as President of the United States in 2008 was largely due to his ability to mobilize popular support among young people and minority groups.

United Kingdom - Changes in Source of Power

* Historically, the source of power in the UK has been the monarchy.
* However, over time, power has shifted to the elected government, particularly the Prime Minister and their cabinet.
* The UK operates as a parliamentary democracy, with power ultimately resting with the people through their elected representatives.

Russia - Changes in Source of Power

* In Russia, power has historically been concentrated in the hands of the ruling elite, whether it be the Tsar, Communist Party, or current President Vladimir Putin.
* Putin has centralized power in the presidency, with the parliament and judiciary largely subservient to his rule.
* Critics argue that Putin's regime is authoritarian and undemocratic.

China - Changes in Source of Power

* In China, power is held by the Communist Party, with the General Secretary serving as the most powerful figure.
* The National People's Congress serves as the country's top legislative body, but its power is largely symbolic.
* Critics argue that China's one-party system is undemocratic and suppresses dissent

Iran - Changes in Source of Power

* In Iran, power is held by the Supreme Leader, who is appointed for life and serves as the highest authority in the country.
* The President and parliament also hold significant power, but ultimately defer to the Supreme Leader.
* Critics argue that Iran's system is undemocratic and suppresses dissent.

Mexico - Changes in Source of Power

* In Mexico, power is held by the President, who serves as both the head of state and government.
* The country operates as a federal republic, with power also held by the legislature and judiciary.
* Critics argue that corruption and violence have undermined Mexico's democratic institutions.

Nigeria - Sources of Power

* In Nigeria, power is held by the President, who serves as both the head of state and government.
* The country operates as a federal republic, with power also held by the legislature and judiciary.
* Critics argue that corruption and ethnic tensions have undermined Nigeria's democratic institutions.

Federal System

* A **federal system** is a type of government where power is divided between a central government and smaller regional governments.
* In a federal system, the central government has limited power and the regional governments have more autonomy.
* Examples of countries with a federal system include the United States, Canada, and Australia.

Benefits of a Federal System

Promotes Local Autonomy, Encourages Diversity, Reduces the Risk of Tyranny, Increases Citizen Participation, and Provides for Efficient Governance

Promotes Local Autonomy

In a federal system, power is shared between the central government and the states. This allows for local autonomy, which means that states can make decisions that are best suited for their citizens.

Encourages Diversity

A federal system allows for diversity in governance. States can experiment with different policies and laws, which can lead to innovation and progress.

Reduces the Risk of Tyranny

A federal system reduces the risk of tyranny by limiting the power of the central government. The states act as a check on the power of the central government, which prevents it from becoming too powerful.

Increases Citizen Participation

A federal system encourages citizen participation in government. Citizens can participate in both state and federal elections, which gives them a greater voice in the political process.

Provides for Efficient Governance

A federal system allows for efficient governance. The central government can focus on issues that affect the entire country, while the states can focus on issues that are specific to their region.

Unitary System

* A **unitary system** is a type of government where power is centralized in a single national government.
* In a unitary system, the national government has complete control over all aspects of government and can delegate power to regional governments as it sees fit.
* Examples of countries with a unitary system include France, Japan, and the United Kingdom.

Benefits of a Unitary System

Efficient Governance, Uniformity, Flexibility, Cost-Effective, and Greater Accountability

Efficient Governance

A unitary system allows for efficient governance as all decisions are made by a single governing body. This eliminates the need for coordination between different levels of government, which can often lead to delays and inefficiencies.

Uniformity

A unitary system ensures uniformity in laws and policies across the country. This is because the national government has the power to make and enforce laws that are applicable to all regions.

Flexibility

A unitary system allows for greater flexibility in responding to crises and emergencies. The national government can quickly mobilize resources and take action without having to wait for approval from lower levels of government.

Cost-Effective

A unitary system can be more cost-effective than a federal system as there is no duplication of services or resources. This is because the national government is responsible for providing all essential services.

Greater Accountability

A unitary system ensures greater accountability as the national government is responsible for all decisions and actions. This makes it easier for citizens to hold their government accountable for its actions.

Key Differences

* In a federal system, power is ^^*shared* between the central and regional governments^^, while in a unitary system, power is ^^*centralized* in the national government^^.
* In a federal system, regional governments have more ^^autonomy^^ and can make decisions on certain issues, while in a unitary system, regional governments have ^^limited power^^ and can ^^only make decisions delegated to them^^ by the national government.
* Federal systems are often used in countries with ^^diverse populations and regions^^, while unitary systems are often used in countries with a more ^^homogenous population^^.

Political Legitimacy

The acceptance of the authority of a government or governing body by the people it governs. It is the belief that the government has the right to rule and that its actions are justified.

Traditional Legitimacy

Based on the belief that the government has the right to rule because it has always done so. This is often associated with monarchies and other hereditary systems.

Charismatic Legitimacy

Based on the personal qualities of a leader, such as their charisma, vision, or ability to inspire. This is often associated with revolutionary or populist movements.

Rational-Legal Legitimacy

Based on the belief that the government has the right to rule because it was established through a legal process, such as a constitution or election. This is often associated with modern democracies.