Legitimisation Flashcards
(20 cards)
What is the definition of legitimacy in the context of UK government?
Legitimacy refers to the right and acceptance of an authority, typically a governing law or regime.
True or False: Legitimacy is solely based on legal authority.
False
Fill in the blank: A government is considered legitimate if it has the __________ of the governed.
consent
What are the two main sources of legitimacy in the UK government?
Tradition and democratic elections.
Which document is considered a key historical source of legitimacy for the UK Parliament?
The Magna Carta.
Multiple Choice: Which of the following is NOT a method of legitimising government power? A) Elections B) Coercion C) Tradition D) Referendums
B) Coercion
What role do elections play in the legitimacy of the UK government?
Elections provide a mechanism for the public to express their consent to be governed.
True or False: The UK government can be considered legitimate even if it does not have the majority support of the population.
True
What is a key characteristic of a ‘legitimate’ government?
It is generally accepted as right and proper by the citizens.
Fill in the blank: The concept of __________ refers to the moral and ethical justification for a government’s authority.
legitimacy
What is the significance of the ‘social contract’ in relation to government legitimacy?
It suggests that legitimacy arises from an agreement between the government and the governed.
Multiple Choice: Which factor can undermine government legitimacy? A) Public trust B) Corruption C) Effective governance D) Transparency
B) Corruption
What is the relationship between democracy and legitimacy?
Democracy enhances legitimacy by allowing citizens to participate in governance through free and fair elections.
True or False: A government can maintain legitimacy through force.
False
What is the impact of public opinion on government legitimacy?
Public opinion can significantly influence the perceived legitimacy of a government.
Fill in the blank: The __________ theory posits that legitimacy comes from the consent of the governed.
democratic
Multiple Choice: Which of the following is an example of a challenge to government legitimacy? A) High voter turnout B) Peaceful protest C) Widespread discontent D) Government transparency
C) Widespread discontent
What is the concept of ‘popular sovereignty’?
It is the principle that the authority of a government is created and sustained by the consent of its people.
True or False: Legitimacy can change over time based on societal values and norms.
True
What is an example of a non-democratic regime that may still claim legitimacy?
Monarchies that claim divine right.
