Introduction to Government, Political Systems, and Civic Engagement

Vocabulary flashcards defining fundamental political science concepts, types of governments, economic systems, and theoretical frameworks based on Chapter 1 to Chapter 5 introductory lecture notes.

Government

An organization that societies use to provide public goods.

Public Goods

Goods that government must provide because private business simply cannot do so, such as a police force, water and sewer infrastructure, parks, or schools.

Politics

The process of gaining control over government.

Direct Democracy

A system of government where policies are determined directly by the general public.

Indirect Democracy

Also known as representative democracy, a system where the general public elects representatives who determine what policies are needed.

Republic

A system of government defined by having a constitution that describes the policies and regulations to regulate elected leaders.

Monarchy

A form of government that gives the power to control government to a single hereditary ruler.

Constitutional Monarchy

A modern form of monarchy where the king or queen's power is limited by an elected legislature, like parliament, or a constitution.

Totalitarian Government

A type of government where a single leader or small group controls government, often where dictators come into play.

Common Goods

Goods protected by laws, such as water, because they must be kept clean for everyone to use.

Socialism

An economic system under which the means of production is controlled by government through direct ownership or excessive regulations, rules, or laws.

Elitist Theory

A political theory arguing that a relatively small group of elites actually directs the affairs of government, even if they gain office through elections.

Pluralist Theory

A political theory arguing that interest groups, rather than a small group of elites, are in control of government.