Key Concepts in Politics, Governance, and Power (Notes)

Vocabulary-style flashcards covering key terms and definitions from the notes.

Polis

The Greek city-state; origin of the word politics.

Politics

The art or science of government or governing; the activity of influencing policy and public affairs, rooted in the Greek polis.

Government

An organization that exercises the authority to govern based on the existing legal frameworks.

Governance

How the government manages the affairs of the state.

Society

An organized group of people connected by beliefs, culture, or common interests; a body of individuals living as members of a community.

Political Animals

A phrase stating that man by nature is a political animal.

Anthropology

The study of people and their culture.

Sociology

The study of society, patterns of social interactions, and everyday life.

Power

The capacity to influence, control, or direct the behavior, decisions, or actions of others.

Coercive Power

Power based on the ability to punish or threaten punishment to influence others.

Reward Power

Power based on the ability to give rewards or benefits.

Legitimate Power

Power derived from an official position or recognized authority.

Expert Power

Power based on knowledge, skills, or expertise.

Referent Power

Power derived from personal traits, charisma, or respect that others admire.

Political Power

Power over government institutions and policies.

Economic Power

Control over resources, wealth, and economic decisions.

Social and Cultural Power

Influence over societal norms, values, and cultural practices.

Military Power

Ability to use force or threat of force to influence others.

Good Governance

Effective, transparent, accountable, and equitable management of a country's resources and affairs.

Transparency

Decisions and processes are open and accessible to the public.

Accountability

Leaders and institutions are responsible for their actions and must answer to the people they serve.

Participation

Citizens have a voice in decision-making processes.

Responsiveness

Governments address the needs and concerns of the people promptly and effectively.

Rule of Law

Laws are applied fairly and consistently, protecting rights and maintaining order.

Equity and Inclusiveness

All members of society have opportunities to participate and benefit from development.

Efficiency and Effectiveness

Resources are used wisely to achieve desired outcomes without waste.

Domestic Politics

Politics focused on internal affairs within a country.

International Politics

Relationships between countries, international organizations, and global issues.

Political Ideologies

Belief systems that influence political behavior and policies (e.g., liberalism, conservatism, socialism, capitalism, nationalism).

Authoritarian Politics

Centralized power with limited political freedoms and democratic processes.

Democratic Politics

Participation, free elections, and protection of civil liberties and political rights.

Oligarchic Politics

Power concentrated in the hands of a few individuals or a small group.

Populist Politics

Politicians claim to represent the common people against elites.

Revolutionary Politics

Aims to fundamentally change or overthrow existing political, social, or economic systems.

Civil Politics

Focuses on civil rights, civic participation, and social justice.

Global Politics

Examines issues that transcend national borders, such as climate change and international security.

Philosophical Perspectives on Governance

Views from philosophers on how governance should be structured (Plato, Aristotle, Hobbes, Locke, Rousseau).

Plato on Governance

Ideal state led by philosopher-kings; governance guided by justice and harmony.

Aristotle on Governance

Polity; virtue ethics; mixed government balancing different classes.

Thomas Hobbes on Governance

Social contract theory; a strong sovereign to maintain order.

John Locke on Governance

Protection of natural rights (life, liberty, property); consent of the governed; limited government.

Jean-Jacques Rousseau on Governance

General Will and participatory governance; direct decision-making for the common good.

Modern Perspectives on Governance

Governance balances power, promotes justice, and respects human rights.

Power and Law Relationship

Power interacts with law; law can constrain or enable power.

Relational Power

Power exists in relationships and is exercised through interactions.

Dynamic Power

Power is not static; it can grow, shrink, or shift over time.

Resource-based Power

Power depends on access to resources like authority, knowledge, wealth.

Positive Consequences of Power

Leadership and order, progress and development, protection of rights.

Negative Consequences of Power

Abuse and oppression, corruption, inequality, loss of legitimacy.

Political Dynasties and Oligarchy

Dominance of political families and wealthy elites, limiting competition.

Corruption

Pervasive misconduct that undermines public trust and diverts resources.

Weak Rule of Law and Justice System

Delays, political influence, and impunity undermine accountability.

Electoral Issues and Political Violence

Fraud, vote-buying, and violence threaten democratic legitimacy.

Political Patronage and Clientelism

Exchange of favors for political support, undermining merit-based governance.

Human Rights Concerns and Political Suppression

Harassment, extrajudicial killings, and suppression of dissent.

Regional and Ethnic Divisions

Tensions rooted in regional, ethnic, or religious identities.

Weak Institutions and Governance

Limited capacity of government agencies affects policy implementation.

Poverty and Socioeconomic Inequality

Disparities influence political stability and voter behavior.

External Influences and Geopolitical Tensions

Foreign factors and regional security issues affecting domestic politics.

Youth Empowerment

Educate yourself, participate in civic activities, vote, advocate for responsible citizenship.

Leadership

Ability to guide, influence, and inspire others toward common goals.

Policy and Advocacy

Efforts to shape public policy and push for reforms.