Chapter 10: Spatial Organization of Political Power

These flashcards cover key concepts related to the spatial organization of political power, including definitions and characteristics of unitary and federal states, electoral processes, and important political principles.

What is a unitary state?

A unitary state is one where more power is held by a central government authority over all the state’s territory.

What are two advantages of unitary states?

Unitary systems tend to have fewer government agencies and are generally less corrupt.

What is one disadvantage of unitary states?

Highly centralized governments can become disconnected from the concerns of people living there.

What characterizes a federal state?

In a federal state, power is more broadly shared between a federal government and its regional units.

What is reapportionment?

Reapportionment is the process in which seats in the House of Representatives are redistributed based on population changes.

What is gerrymandering?

Gerrymandering is the practice of drawing legislative maps that favor a particular political party.

What is the Voting Rights Act of 1965 known for?

It created new majority-minority districts where minorities made up the majority of voters.

What are centripetal forces?

Centripetal forces unite groups of people and can create cohesion within a state.

What is ethnic cleansing?

Ethnic cleansing refers to attempts by the state to eliminate an ethnic group through expulsion, imprisonment, or killing.

What does the term 'devolution' refer to?

Devolution is the process of transferring power from a central authority to regional or local governments.

What are antecedent boundaries?

Antecedent boundaries are established before significant settlement occurs in the area.

What is a choke point?

A choke point is a narrow, strategic passageway that is crucial for trade and military movement.