Unit 2 Flashcards
(18 cards)
What is the primary ambition of contemporary governments within a democratic developmental state?
To determine, acknowledge, and prioritise developmental needs effectively and efficiently within a democratic context.
What guides the contemporary developmental state in South Africa?
- Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996
- Bill of Rights
- White Paper on Transforming Public Service Delivery (Batho Pele White Paper)
- Millennium Development Goals (MDGs)
- National Development Plan: Vision 2030 (2011)
Define ‘state’ as a concept.
A legitimate territory inclusive of an authoritative structure and citizens, evolving over time.
List the four characteristics of a state according to Nugent.
- Clearly defined territory
- Permanent population
- Functioning government
- Capacity to enter into relations with other states
What are the three primary dimensions identified in the landscape of a developmental state?
- Political
- Economic
- Social
What does the political dimension of a state include?
- State-building
- Rule of law
- Democracy
What is the focus of the economic dimension in a developmental state?
Economic welfare of a state and its citizens, promoting sustained rapid economic growth and redistribution.
Identify elements that define the social dimension of a state.
- Nation-building
- National identity
- Social equality
- Social capital
What are common characteristics of democracy?
- Rule by the people
- Active citizen participation
- Regular free and fair elections
True or False: Democracy guarantees the absence of corruption and public order issues.
False
What significant change occurred in South Africa’s governance in 1994?
Adoption of a democratic form of government with the African National Congress (ANC) as the ruling party.
What is a developmental state?
A capitalist political economy characterized by certain actors pursuing economic development.
What role does the public sector play in a developmental state?
It determines the success or failure of developmental initiatives.
List characteristics required from public officials in a democratic public developmental sector.
- Break new grounds
- Inspire success
- Raise the standard
- Demonstrate ‘nothing is impossible’ attitude
- Avoid excuses for poor service delivery
- Make a difference in people’s lives
- Display collective responsibility
- Engage with citizens
- Identify early warnings
- Participate in international activism
Fill in the blank: The Constitution of 1996 requires public officials to adhere to basic values and principles governing _______.
[public administration]
What does the rule of law provide within the public sector?
A well-articulated, prescribed set of laws.
What is the main aspiration of a developmental state?
To display continued, steady, high proportion growth.
What elements can negatively influence democracy?
- Corruption
- Decline in public order
- Corrosion of administrative capacity
