Politics and Culture NL Studies 2205 October 2010

Politics & Culture Introduction How does a government influence a country’s culture? What age do you think is appropriate age for citizens to have the right to vote? Why? Think of all the different ways that government controls or regulations affect your life.

Politics & Culture Legal controls on the sale of alcohol & tobacco to young people is one example of how legislation affects our culture What are some other notable examples that impact us?

Canada’s Government Canada uses the parliamentary system of government which involves the following process: People in each district or riding elect a representative to sit in government on their behalf Candidate with the highest number of votes in each district or riding becomes the federal MP or the provincial MHA The political party with the most elected representatives forms the government

Types of Government Majority = 50% +1 Minority = Less than 50% Coalition = Less Than 50%

Majority Government The party with the majority of the seats forms the government and will be able to successfully pass legislation during its term

Minority Government The party with the largest number of the seats can form the government However, when it does not have the support of other parties when passing important pieces of legislation that are considered matters of confidence (budget), an election may be called.

Coalition Government If no single party has a clear mandate to form the government, two or more parties may seek to work together and share in the exercise of power An election may be called if a vote of non- confidence occurs

Constitutional Democracy Democracy = rule of the majority (decision can be made that will influence everyone) To guard against this, we have a Constitutional Democracy in Canada While the majority makes decisions, our rights as individuals are protected against government decisions by the constitution