Lesson 1: Governance
What is government? The people and institutions put in place to run or govern a country, state, province or community. The role of government is to make decisions and regulations (laws) for the people for whom it is responsible. The purpose of government is to protect its citizens and provide services to support them.
How do governments compare? There are different types governments around the world and they can be compared in the following ways: a) Who receives power b) How they are formed c) The rights and freedoms given to citizens
Totalitarian Government A system of government run by a ruler with total power and authority over all aspects of life. The ruler is called a dictator and often has the support of the military without the consent of the people. Individual rights, freedoms and liberties are restrictive or non- existent, and human rights abuses are common. High level of security and restricted media. Examples: China, North Korea
Democratic government A system of government in which power is retained by all the people, either directly or indirectly through elected representatives. Citizens have access to power and these countries have free and fair elections. Generally free societies where citizens have guaranteed rights and freedoms. Examples: Canada, United States, Japan, Germany.
Canada’s Government Canada is a parliamentary democracy and a constitutional monarchy. Canada is part of the British Commonwealth and is therefore ceremonially connected to the British Crown. The Queen of England is also Canada’s Queen and holds symbolic power. A constitutional monarchy can be either a democracy (like Canada) or a totalitarian state.
Quotes about Democracy “It has been said that democracy is the worst form of government except for all the others that have been tried.” – Winston Churchill “I understand democracy as something that gives the weak the same chance as the strong.” – Mohandas Gandhi
Final Thoughts Why is democracy important? What does democracy mean to you? How can democracy fail?