Political Systems and Economic Strategies

These flashcards cover political systems, economic policies, and demographic challenges faced by various countries, highlighting key developments and concepts relevant for understanding comparative politics.

What are the demographic challenges faced by Germany, Japan, and the United States?

Germany faces an aging population and has resisted immigration. Japan also has an aging population with similar resistance and has no solutions. The United States experiences increasing diversity from high immigration and fertility advantages.

What was the significance of the 1950 Schuman decision?

It aimed to avoid another European war and led to the formation of the European Coal and Steel Community (ECSC) in 1951.

What major transformations did the European Communities undergo?

The ECSC and Euratom combined to form the European Community (EC) in 1967, which later evolved into the European Union (EU) in 1993.

What does the term 'democratic deficit' refer to in the context of the EU?

It refers to the challenge regarding the legitimacy of the EU as a democratic institution accessible by ordinary citizens.

How does the 'SMD electoral system' influence party competition in the UK?

The single-member district (SMD) plurality system punishes smaller parties like the Liberal Democrats, maintaining dominance of the Conservative and Labour parties.

What are the historical roots of the Labour Party in the UK?

Formed in 1900 to give the working class a voice in politics, supporting social welfare and some government ownership without pushing anti-capitalism.

What key characteristics defined the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) in Japan?

It is a conservative party with factional divisions, consisting of independent political entrepreneurs that lack ideological consistency and operate a clientelist system.

What is the 'Resource Trap Theory'?

It argues that countries rich in natural resources are more prone to corrupt governments, as they can sustain themselves without public support.

What are the three economic policies adopted by developing countries post-WWII?

Export-oriented industrialization focusing on technology, import substitution to boost local businesses, and policies of the Washington Consensus.

What impact did NAFTA have on Mexico's economy?

NAFTA significantly boosted Mexico's economy.

What is meant by 'License Raj' in India?

It refers to the bureaucratic red tape governing the licensing process, which leads to corruption and hinders economic growth.

What does the term 'Ayatollah' signify in Iranian politics?

An Ayatollah is knowledgeable in Islamic law and religion, serving as a basis of legitimacy for the regime and makes independent religious rulings.

What is 'Shock Therapy' in Russia?

A rapid marketization effort aimed at embracing capitalism, which led to hyperinflation and the emergence of oligarchs in Russia.

What is the function of the Politburo Standing Committee in China?

It consists of the top political leaders who are responsible for national policy making and political appointments.

What does 'Bolsa Familia' represent in Brazilian politics?

A targeted social welfare program providing aid to poor families, contingent on children attending school and receiving medical attention.

How did the PRI maintain political dominance in Mexico?

The PRI created a soft dictatorship that appeared democratic but really controlled the system through electoral fraud.