Government, Politics and Social Movements week 11

These flashcards cover key concepts and definitions related to government, political movements, and social change.

Government

The system or group of people that has the authority to make decisions, create and enforce laws, and manage public affairs for a society or state.

Power

The ability or capacity of an individual or group to influence, control, or direct the behavior, actions, or decisions of others, even against resistance.

Separation of Powers

The principle that government authority is divided into three branches: Legislative, Executive, and Judicial to prevent any single body from having too much power.

Legislative Branch

The branch of government that makes laws, typically composed of elected representatives.

Executive Branch

Includes the Prime Minister and Cabinet, responsible for implementing and enforcing laws.

Judicial Branch

The branch of government that interprets laws and ensures they follow the Constitution.

Social Contract

An implicit agreement among individuals to form a society, where they consent to authority in exchange for social order.

Anarchism

The political philosophy advocating for a society organized without formal government or leadership.

Democracy

A system of government in which the citizens exercise power directly or elect representatives to make decisions on their behalf.

Social Movement

A network of individuals, groups, and organizations engaged in a collective effort to bring about or resist social change.

Relative Deprivation Theory

A theory suggesting that social movements arise when individuals perceive a gap between their expectations and their actual conditions.

Resource Mobilization Theory

A theory emphasizing the importance of resources in the success of social movements.

New Social Movements

Social movements that focus on cultural and identity issues rather than primarily political and economic goals.

Black Lives Matter

A social movement advocating for racial justice and equality, particularly focused on ending police brutality against Black individuals.

Climate Justice Movement

A global movement advocating for urgent action to combat climate change and promote environmental sustainability.

MeToo Movement

A movement against sexual harassment and assault, empowering survivors to speak out and demanding accountability.

LGBTQ+ Rights Movement

A movement advocating for the rights and equality of individuals who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, or queer.

Feminist Movement

A movement promoting gender equality and women's rights.

Immigrant Rights Movement

A movement advocating for the rights and dignity of immigrants.

Indigenous Rights Movement

A movement advocating for the rights and cultural preservation of Indigenous peoples.