WGU- C963 Study Notes

Study Notes - C963 What is the definition of Government ○ Describes the means by which society organizes itself and allocates authority, accomplish goals and provides benefits that the society as a whole needs. What do government benefits provided depend on ○ All government benefits depend on the type of government. What is the definition of Politics ○ Process of gaining and exercising control within a government ○ Purpose of setting and achieving particular goals, related to the division of resources. When and where did the idea that people should govern themselves developed ○ 18th century, in North America and France. What is an Oligarchy ○ Only the ruling elite or certain members of a political party can participate in government. What are private goods ○ Food, clothing and housing provided by private businesses, in exchange for profit. What are public goods ○ Goods and services available to all without charge. What are toll goods ○ Goods available to many, but only few can afford it. What are common goods ○ Free of charge, but of limited supply. ○ Example, fish or clean drinking water. ○ Government protects common goods. What is Civic Engagement ○ Participation that connects citizens to politics. What are some forms of Civic Engagement ○ Reading ○ Discussing politics ○ Attending political debates ○ Donating money to political campaigns ○ Handing out flyers for candidates ○ Voting ○ Joining protests ○ Contacting elected representatives What is the form of government of the US ○ Republic, or Representative Democracy ○ Citizens do not govern directly. ○ Representatives pass laws on behalf of people. What is a democracy ○ Political power rests in the hands of the people What are some examples of Direct Democracy ○ A referendum, or proposed law, that is voted for on the ballot, rather than leaving it up to representatives. What is a monarchy