I & S Governments

Types of EASTERN philosophy of Government

• Legalism

  Definition: A Principle in jurisprudence that emphasizes strict adherence to laws and regulations, often leading to formalism in legal interpretations.

• To govern the state by laws is to praise the right and blame the wrong.

• Punishment for fault never skips ministers, reward for good behavior never misses commoners, emphasizing the importance of accountability and justice for all.

• The ruler who relies solely on kindness and disdain punishment cannot control his subjects, and thus risks undermining the very foundation of order and governance.

• To understand the art of ruling, one must first understand the nature of man.

• A ruler who is overindulgent and generous will eventually lose the respect and obedience of his subjects.

Daoisim-

Definition- A philosophical tradition emphasizing harmony, balance, and the natural order, advocating that rulers should align their governance with the Dao, or the way of nature, rather than exerting forcefully their will.

• In contrast, a ruler who employs fear judiciously may maintain control, but risks breeding resentment and rebellion among the populace. Thus, a successful ruler must find a delicate balance between kindness and authority, nurturing the loyalty of their subjects while ensuring that the principles of order and respect for governance are upheld.

Confucianism- A philosophical and ethical system that emphasizes morality, social relationships, and justice, advocating for the importance of virtuous leadership and the cultivation of personal and communal harmony. Confucian rulers are expected to lead by example, fostering a society in which education, respect for tradition, and moral integrity guide interactions among individuals.

Experience

Respect your elders

Master and servant

Always an elder that you must respect.

Very strict orders to not back talk your elders.

Types of Western Government

Democracy: a system of government in which power is vested in the people, who exercise that power directly or through elected representatives.

Republic: A system of government in which the power lies with the people, who exercise that power directly or through elected representatives.

Fascism: A political system characterized by authoritarianism, dictatorial power, and strong centralized control, often led by a single leader and marked by the suppression of dissent.

Oligarchy: A form of governance in which power rests with a small group of individuals or families, often distinguished by wealth, nobility, or military control, and where decisions are made for their benefit rather than for the common good.

Communism: A political and economic ideology advocating for a classless society where the means of production are commonly owned and controlled by the state or the community as a whole, aiming to eliminate private property and create equality among all citizens.

Ideas and Beliefs Of Socrates. ( Government)

Socrates: A classical Greek philosopher known for his contributions to ethics and epistemology, he emphasized the importance of self-knowledge, critical inquiry, and the pursuit of virtuous living through dialectical methods, often questioning the foundational beliefs of society.

1- Rule of law and Justice: Importance of Justice and the rule of law Citizens abide by them willingly, regardless of personal interests.

2- Philosopher King: Philosopher King, is wise and posses knowledge and truth, ruling over the state. Motivated by power of wealth.

3- Critique of Democracy: Was critical of Democracy as practiced in ancient Athens. Democracy could lead to the tyranny of the majority and the rule of political leaders who manipulate public opinion for their own gain, resulting in a society where the interests of the few overshadow the needs of the many. ( Like propaganda?)

4- Education and Virtue: Well educated people would be better equipped to govern themselves and make wise decisions for the common good. ( Question everything)

5- Question authority: and Encourage critical thinking to foster a society where individuals do not accept ideas blindly, but instead actively engage in discourse that leads to informed decision-making.

Types Of Western Philosophy

• Hobbes ( Social Contract) : Proposed that individuals give up certain freedoms in exchange for protection and social order, emphasizing the necessity of a strong, centralized authority to prevent chaos.

• Locke (Natural Rights): Advocated for the idea that individuals have inherent rights to life, liberty, and property, which governments must protect.

Questions:

Important Philosopher- Thomas Hobbes

What was the social Contract Theory according to Hobbes and how did this go against the Divine Right of Kings?-

Hobbes' Social Contract Theory posits that individuals consent, either explicitly or implicitly, to surrender some of their freedoms and submit to the authority of a governing body in exchange for protection of their remaining rights.

What was Hobbes’ explanation about the State of Nature and how did this explanation connect to his Social Contract Theory? - Humans left to their own devices without no central authority would lead to eventual chaos.

Important Philosopher- John Locke: He opposed Hobbes' view, arguing that humans are inherently rational and capable of self-governance, thus necessitating a government that protects individual rights rather than suppresses them. ( The social contract can exist as long as the leader gives you your natural rights)

Separation of Church and State.

Power

• What is the definition of power.

• What are the 6 main sources of civic power? Explain each one.

• What are 3 laws of Power? Explain each one,

• What can you do to become more powerful in civic life?

• What’s the difference between ‘read power’ and ‘write power’?

Different sources of power

• Physical Force

• Wealth

• State Action

• Social Norms

• Ideas

• Numbers

3 Laws Of Power

• Power is never Static- It is constantly shifting and changing.

• Power is like Water- it flows and takes the shape of the container that holds it, adapting to the circumstances and dynamics of the environment. It can be controlled.

• Power compounds- Power keeps on growing

What Can You Do To Become More Powerful?

Read so you may write.

Organize your ideas

Practice

See society as a piece of text.

Forms of Power

What is High Quality Power- Knowledge.

What is Medium Quality Power- Wealth.

What is Low Quality Power- Violence. Those who gain power by violence do so by controlling the mechanisms of physical domination. The basic promise is ‘ do as your told and you won’t get hurt’.

Five types of Power

• Referent- Perceived as caring.

• Legitimate- Position/ role.

• Expert- Having superior knowledge

• Reward- Ability to give rewards.

• Coercive- Ability to punish.

Systems of Government

Federal- Authority to manage and oversee national issues, ensuring compliance with laws and regulations across states.

Unitary-

Confederal-