Lecture on Democracy and Government Structures

These flashcards cover key vocabulary terms and concepts related to democracy, government structures, and political accountability.

Horizontal Accountability

The ability of state institutions to hold one another accountable.

Vertical Accountability

The ability of individuals and groups to hold state institutions accountable directly.

Electoral System

The method used to elect representatives, which can be proportional or majoritarian.

Parliamentary System

A government system in which the Executive branch derives its democratic legitimacy from, and is directly accountable to, the legislature (Parliament).

Presidential System

A system where the President is the head of state and government, and is elected independently of the legislature.

Semi-Presidentialism

A government system that features both a president and a prime minister, with a separation of powers.

Unicameral Legislature

A legislative body with a single chamber.

Bicameral Legislature

A legislative body with two separate chambers.

Proportional Representation

An electoral system that allocates seats based on the percentage of votes each party receives.

Majoritarian System

An electoral system where the candidate with the most votes wins, often used in single-member districts.

Vote of No Confidence

A vote that allows the legislature to remove the head of government from office.

Constitutional Monarchy

A form of government in which a monarch acts as head of state within the parameters of a constitution.

Federalist Structure

A system of government where power is divided between a central authority and constituent political units.

Central Executive

The entity that enforces the laws and administers the government.

Judicial Review

The power of the judiciary to examine the actions of the legislative and executive branches.

Spoils Recruitment

An employment practice where political supporters are rewarded with government jobs.

Merit Recruitment

An employment practice based on qualifications and performance, rather than political connections.

Civil Service

A body of government employees selected based on merit.

Protection of Minorities

The measures taken to safeguard the rights and interests of minority groups within a democracy.

Referendums

Direct votes in which an entire electorate is invited to vote on a particular proposal.