Political Science Concepts and Coalition Governments

Flashcards covering key concepts discussed in the lecture on political science, particularly regarding coalition governments and their mechanisms.

Middle Winning Coalition

The smallest group of legislators needed to achieve a majority vote in a legislature.

Legislature

A deliberative assembly with the authority to make laws for a political entity.

Majority Vote

More than half of the votes cast in an election or decision-making process.

Formateur

The person responsible for forming a government and creating a cabinet in a parliamentary system.

Connected Coalition

A coalition of parties that are ideologically aligned and capable of agreeing on key legislative issues.

Surplus Majority Government

A coalition government that has more seats than the minimum number needed for a majority.

Minority Government

A government in which the ruling coalition does not hold the majority of seats but relies on support from other parties for certain legislative measures.

Ideological Alignment

The degree to which political parties or legislators share similar beliefs and values.

Electoral Coalition

A temporary alliance between political parties to achieve a shared goal of winning an election.

Coup d'état

A sudden overthrow of a government, usually by a small group of the existing state authority.

Tariff

A tax imposed on imported goods and services.

Cabinet Positions

The leading administrative offices in a government, each headed by a minister or secretary.

Elective Offices

Positions in government that are filled by election rather than appointment.