1st term ss3 Flashcards
(127 cards)
1
Q
What is the origin of democracy?
A
Democracy originated in small ancient Greek City States of Athens, requiring participation from all adult male citizens
The word democracy comes from the Greek ‘Demokratia’, a fusion of ‘Demos’ (the people) and ‘Kratia’ (to govern).
2
Q
Define democracy.
A
A system of government in which all qualified adult citizens share supreme power directly or through elected representatives.
3
Q
Who defined democracy as ‘the government of the people, by the people, and for the people’?
A
Abraham Lincoln.
4
Q
What is direct democracy?
A
A democracy where all citizens attend the Assembly and take part in decision-making.
5
Q
What is indirect or representative democracy?
A
A democracy where citizens elect representatives to govern on their behalf.
6
Q
List three features of democracy.
A
- Regular and periodic elections
- Respect for the rights of minority groups
- Free and fair elections
7
Q
What is one advantage of democracy?
A
Promotes political participation.
8
Q
What is one disadvantage of democracy?
A
Representation may not reflect the interests of the people.
9
Q
What are two conditions necessary for the success of democracy?
A
- Economic development and equal opportunities for all
- Literacy and political education
10
Q
Define political culture.
A
The attitudes, sentiments, beliefs, ideas, and norms that guide the behaviour of the people in a political system.
11
Q
What are the three components of political culture?
A
- Cognitive orientation
- Evaluative orientation
- Affective orientation
12
Q
Name one determinant of political culture.
A
Different ethnicity.
13
Q
What is political socialization?
A
A process by which citizens are educated on the values, attitudes, and beliefs of the political system.
14
Q
Who is the first agent of political socialization?
A
The family.
15
Q
What role do schools play in political socialization?
A
They teach political theories and the roles of political actors.
16
Q
What is communalism?
A
A traditional ideology focusing on collective ownership of property among community members.
17
Q
List two characteristics of communalism.
A
- The village community is the center of administration
- There is collective ownership of means of production
18
Q
Define feudalism.
A
A socio-political and economic system based on land ownership between lords/nobles and serfs.
19
Q
What is one characteristic of feudalism?
A
It is based on land ownership.
20
Q
Describe the feudal social structure.
A
It follows a pyramidal pattern with the King at the top, followed by Feudal Lords, Vassals, and Serfs at the bottom.
21
Q
What is the Ceremony of Homage?
A
A ceremony to cement the bond between Lords and Vassals, involving an oath of loyalty.
22
Q
What is the duty of vassals in feudal society?
A
They must provide military service and be present in court when required.
23
Q
Fill in the blank: The idea of democracy implies that power belongs to the _______.
A
people.
24
Q
True or False: Democracy allows for the intimidation of voters during elections.
A
False.
25
What is one disadvantage related to the decision-making process in democracy?
Decision-making is slow due to the need for open discussion.
26
What is feudalism?
An economic and social system where land is held by lords in exchange for military service and protection for vassals.
27
What is the Ceremony of Homage?
A ritual to cement the bond between lords and vassals where the vassal swears loyalty to the lord.
28
What is Investiture?
The formal recognition of a vassal by a lord, involving the giving of a fief and symbols of authority.
29
List some merits of feudalism.
* Saved common men from foreign invaders
* Protected common men from tyranny of kings
* Prevented slavery from thriving
* Promoted chivalry among knights
* Provided security and a healthy society
30
List some demerits of feudalism.
* Divided society into feudal class and peasantry
* Discouraged nationalism
* Lost political unity in Europe
* Made conditions deplorable for peasants
* Weakened state sovereignty
* Encouraged exploitation and injustice
31
What is capitalism?
An economic and political system allowing private ownership of production and distribution aimed at profit.
32
What are the characteristics of capitalism?
* Free economy based on price mechanism
* Private enterprise
* Profit maximization
* Consumer sovereignty
* Inequality of wealth and opportunities
33
What is liberalism?
A political philosophy advocating liberty, individual rights, democracy, and equality before the law.
34
List some characteristics of liberalism.
* Promotes human personality and equality
* Belief in individual autonomy
* Advocates inalienable rights
* Supports limited government
* Values social control through law
35
What is socialism?
An economic system advocating collective ownership of production and distribution to prevent capitalism's injustices.
36
List some basic characteristics of socialism.
* State-owned economy
* Central planning by government
* Equitable compensation for labor
* Democratic reform processes
* Predominance of worker interests
37
What are the differences between capitalism and socialism?
* Capitalism allows free enterprise; socialism has a centrally planned economy
* Capitalism breeds wealth inequality; socialism aims to reduce it
* Capitalism maximizes profit; socialism focuses on welfare
38
What is oligarchy?
A form of government ruled by a few privileged individuals who govern for their own benefit.
39
List some types/forms of oligarchy.
* Aristocracy
* Plutocracy
* Military rule
* Theocracy
* Diarchy
* Gerontocracy
* Autocracy
40
What is communism?
An advanced stage of socialism advocating common ownership of production and a classless society.
41
What are the features of communism?
* Centrally planned community
* Classless society
* One-party system
* Abolition of private property
* Centrally controlled communication
42
What is fascism?
A political system characterized by authoritarian control, total power, and often rule by force.
43
List some characteristics of fascism.
* Totalitarian government
* No respect for individual liberties
* One-party system
* State control of everything
* Glorification of war
44
What are some advantages of fascism?
* Prioritizes national welfare
* Promotes socioeconomic equality
* Speeds up decision-making processes
45
What is the primary goal of fascism regarding socioeconomic classes?
To unite the people by eliminating socioeconomic classes and creating equality among everyone.
## Footnote
Fascism theoretically demands that the wealthy give up their wealth for distribution among the poor.
46
How does fascism affect decision-making processes?
It speeds up the decision-making process by allowing a single leader to make immediate decisions without bureaucratic delays.
## Footnote
This results in faster implementation of policies and progress.
47
What impact does fascism have on crime rates?
It improves peace and order by imposing heavy punishments for common crimes, discouraging criminal activity.
## Footnote
This is due to the government's complete control over law enforcement.
48
What is a notable psychological effect of fascism on citizens?
It promotes national pride among the populace.
## Footnote
This was evident in countries like Italy and Germany during the fascist regimes.
49
What is a major risk associated with fascism?
It paves the way for the abuse of power by concentrating control in the hands of one individual.
## Footnote
This can lead to entitlement and corruption among the dictator and their associates.
50
What does fascism do to free speech?
It prevents people from enjoying free speech, leading to imprisonment or death for critics of the regime.
## Footnote
Human rights are often disregarded under fascist rule.
51
Can fascism widen the socioeconomic divide?
Yes, it can widen the divide between the rich and the poor despite its theoretical aim for equality.
## Footnote
Wealthy individuals may collude with the government to retain their status.
52
How does fascism impact foreign investment?
It can damage the country’s economy by discouraging foreign investment due to strict government controls.
## Footnote
This leads to economic stagnation.
53
What historical example illustrates the abuse of power in fascism?
The Holocaust during Hitler's regime in Germany, where millions of Jews were killed.
## Footnote
This was a result of the dictator's discriminatory beliefs.
54
What is totalitarianism?
A form of government where all aspects of citizens' lives are controlled by a single party or leader.
## Footnote
It involves excessive centralization of power.
55
What are some key features of totalitarianism?
* Existence of an official ideology
* A single mass party monopolizes government
* Monopoly of mass media
* Use of force and secret police
* Central control of economy
* Suppression of public opinion
56
Define unitary government.
A system where all governmental powers are concentrated in a single authority or central government.
## Footnote
The central government can delegate powers to subordinate bodies.
57
What are characteristics of a unitary government?
* Concentration of powers in a single authority
* Adoption of a unitary constitution
* No constitutional division of powers
* Central government as the only source of power
58
What factors lead to the adoption of a unitary government?
* Small size of the country
* Absence of tribal differences
* Strong loyalty to the central government
* Common language and culture
59
List some advantages of unitary government.
* Stronger and stable government
* Reduction in government costs
* Quicker decision-making
* Promotion of national unity
60
What are the disadvantages of a unitary government?
* Encouragement of dictatorship
* Overburdened central government
* Prevention of local autonomy
* Domination of minority groups
61
What is the definition of a federal system of government?
A system with a constitutional division of powers between the central government and component units.
## Footnote
It allows for shared governance among different levels.
62
What are the three legislative lists in a federal system?
* Exclusive Legislative List
* Concurrent Legislative List
* Residual Legislative List
63
What are some conditions that lead to the adoption of a federal system?
* Cultural and ethnic diversities
* Fear of domination by majorities
* Geographical proximity
* Large size of the country
64
What are some features of a federal system of government?
* Constitutional division of powers
* Supremacy of the constitution
* Existence of a bicameral legislature
* Denial of the right of secession
65
List the merits of a federal system.
* National integration
* Protection of minority interests
* Economic development
* Greater political participation
66
What are the demerits of a federal system?
* Complexity of operation
* Potential for conflict between governments
* Rigid constitution
* High cost of governance
67
What is the difficulty of amending the constitution of a federal government?
Amendment requires the consent of the majority of the states within the federation
## Footnote
This rigidity can lead to challenges in responding to urgent conditions.
68
What is a potential consequence of federalism regarding citizen allegiance?
Citizens may show allegiance to their respective states rather than the central government
## Footnote
This can lead to statism and sectional consciousness.
69
What is a financial drawback of running a federal government?
The cost of running a federal government is too expensive due to duplication of resources
## Footnote
This includes having two sets of legislature and public offices.
70
What problem does federalism create concerning wealth distribution?
Federalism creates the problem of sharing the national cake among different regions or states
## Footnote
This includes issues like revenue allocation in Nigeria.
71
What can federalism encourage among ethnic groups?
It can encourage secession due to fears of domination
## Footnote
This arises from various ethnic groups feeling threatened.
72
What type of rivalry can arise due to federalism?
Unhealthy rivalry among different governments and ethnic groups
## Footnote
This can lead to social disharmony.
73
What is a characteristic of the presidential system of government?
The president is the chief executive elected directly by the people
## Footnote
This system has three branches: executive, legislative, and judiciary.
74
What principle applies in the presidential system concerning the branches of government?
Separation of powers applies
## Footnote
Each branch is constitutionally independent.
75
What is the tenure of office for a president in a presidential system?
The tenure is limited to a fixed term
## Footnote
For example, in the U.S., a president cannot serve more than two terms.
76
What is a significant advantage of the presidential system regarding power?
Prevents the emergence of dictators due to checks and balances
## Footnote
This makes it difficult for any one person to hold absolute power.
77
What is a disadvantage of the presidential system regarding political opposition?
Absence of an opposition party can lead to unchecked power
## Footnote
This allows the president to rule without fear of criticism.
78
What defines a parliamentary system of government?
The head of state is different from the head of government
## Footnote
The prime minister exercises executive functions.
79
What is the principle of collective responsibility in a parliamentary system?
All ministers are collectively responsible for their actions
## Footnote
Failure of one minister is seen as the failure of the entire cabinet.
80
What is a key feature of the parliamentary system regarding decision-making?
Decisions are taken faster due to the fusion of power
## Footnote
Executive members are also part of the legislature.
81
What is a disadvantage of the parliamentary system regarding accountability?
Difficult to apportion blame due to collective responsibility
## Footnote
Blame is shared among all cabinet members.
82
What is republicanism?
A republican government has an elected Head of State by the people
## Footnote
The head of state is known as the president.
83
What is a feature of a republic regarding the legislature?
Members of the legislature are directly elected by the people
## Footnote
This enhances political accountability.
84
What does a constitution specify?
A constitution specifies the working of a government and the rights and duties of its citizens
## Footnote
It serves as the fundamental law of a country.
85
What is a written constitution?
A written constitution is compiled in a single document
## Footnote
Examples include the U.S. Constitution and Nigeria's constitution.
86
What is one merit of a written constitution?
Easy reference for legal matters
## Footnote
This is especially useful in courts for resolving disputes.
87
What is one source of constitutions?
Past experiences serve as a source of constitutions
## Footnote
This includes political, social, and historical experiences.
88
What is a characteristic of a rigid constitution?
A rigid constitution is difficult to amend
## Footnote
This ensures stability but can hinder necessary changes.
89
What is the primary function of a constitution?
To define the fundamental human rights of citizens and clarify the duties and powers of each organ of government.
90
What are the characteristics of a written constitution?
It is often rigid in nature, comprehensively written, and properly documented.
91
List three merits of a written constitution.
* Easy reference in courts
* Protects minority interests
* Clearly states citizens' rights
92
What is a demerit of a written constitution?
It is ambiguous to amend.
93
Define an unwritten constitution.
A constitution not contained in a single written document, consisting of customs, values, and precedents.
94
Name two examples of countries with unwritten constitutions.
* United Kingdom
* New Zealand
95
What is a rigid constitution?
A constitution that cannot be easily changed and has a cumbersome amendment process.
96
List two advantages of a rigid constitution.
* Prevents arbitrary changes by government officials
* Ensures smooth change of government
97
What is a flexible constitution?
A constitution that is easy to amend, with a simple amendment procedure.
98
True or False: A flexible constitution is prone to dictatorship.
True
99
What does constitutionalism mean?
The power of government should be defined and limited by the constitution.
100
What are the three organs of government?
* Legislature
* Executive
* Judiciary
101
What is the primary function of the legislature?
Law making.
102
What are the two types of legislatures?
* Unicameral
* Bicameral
103
List two advantages of unicameral legislature.
* Faster law-making process
* Cheaper to maintain
104
What is a disadvantage of bicameralism?
It causes serious delays in the law-making process.
105
What role does the executive play in government?
Implementation, execution, or enforcement of laws.
106
What is the role of an independent judiciary?
To take judicial decisions without fear or favor.
107
List two factors that ensure the independence of the judiciary.
* Separation from other government organs
* Neutral appointment processes
108
What is a safeguard of fundamental human rights?
Existence of an independent judiciary.
109
What role do non-governmental organizations play in safeguarding human rights?
They monitor government activities and fight against human rights abuses.
110
Fill in the blank: The legislative arm of government is responsible for _______.
[law making]
111
What is the function of the executive concerning bills?
To give assent to bills before they become laws.
112
What kind of executive system has all powers vested in the president?
Single executive/presidential executive.
113
What is the primary importance of the judiciary?
To ensure unbiased interpretations of the laws and constitution.
114
What is a major safeguard of citizens' rights in a democratic system?
The existence of a democratic system of government which encourages and permits the individual to freely express their political views and the right to differ from them.
115
What does public vigilance imply in the context of citizens' rights?
Citizens keenly watch the activities of the government and will not tolerate abuse or unreasonable interference with their rights.
116
Name two non-governmental organizations that fight against human rights abuses.
* Amnesty International
* Civil Liberty Organisation (CLO)
117
What should citizens be ready to do if their rights are abused?
Approach the court to challenge any abuses or perceived infringement of their rights.
118
True or False: There is absolutism to any right.
False
119
Fill in the blank: While enjoying our rights, we should always respect the rights of _______.
[others]
120
What are some limitations of fundamental human rights?
* Legal restrictions during court commitment
* Detention for serious crimes
* Curtailment due to serious ill health
* Illiteracy
* Abuse during emergency periods
* Forceful conscription into the army
* Suspicion-based searches by security agencies
* Existence of military rule and autocratic government
* High cost of justice
121
How can individual freedom be legally restricted?
When a person is committed to a court of law for an offence or detained for a limited time for a serious crime.
122
What impact does serious ill health have on citizens' rights?
The right or freedom of citizens may be curtailed.
123
How does illiteracy constrain the enforcement of rights?
Many people are unaware of the rights and freedom they are entitled to under the law.
124
What often happens to citizens' rights during emergency periods?
The rights of citizens are often abused by the government.
125
What is a common practice by security agencies based on mere suspicion?
Carrying out searches on suspects and forcing them to make confessional statements.
126
What are some forms of government that limit human rights?
* Military rule
* Autocratic government
127
What is one financial barrier that limits access to justice?
High cost of justice.
