People and Government Mr. Dodson

Objectives What are the essential features of a state? What are the four main purposes of government? How do various theories explain the origin of government?

The Need for Government In the last 50 years the number of countries in the world has more than doubled. In 2000, there were 196 independent countries, each with its own people and government.

State, Nation, or Country? State: (think country) a political community that occupies a definite territory Has an organized government Power to make and enforce laws without approval from higher authority Nation: any sizable group of people united by common bonds of race, tradition, and sometimes religion

State, Nation, or Country? To the citizens of the U.S. “state” has a different meaning. The “United States” was first used in 1776 when the 13 colonies declared their independence. Each colony thought of itself as a country When the they joined together under the Constitution, the term State continued to be used.

Essential Features of a “State” Population – all the people who live in the state The state is more likely to be stable if the population agrees about basic beliefs – social consensus. Territory - An area with fixed boundaries. Territory can be a source of conflict among states and may change through war, negotiation, or purchase.

Essential Features of a “State” Sovereignty - absolute authority to conduct internal affairs within its territorial boundaries. Does not need approval from a higher authority or other nations Government - institution by which it maintains order, provides public services, and enforces decisions that its people must obey.

Theories of the Origin of the State How did states or governments come to be – well there are several theories. Evolutionary theory Force Theory Divine Right Theory Social Contract Theory

Theories of the Origin of the State Evolutionary Theory The state evolved from the family group. Force Theory One person or a group used force to establish its authority to govern the people. Think of lords of castles demanded obedience in return for protection

Theories of the Origin of the State Divine Right Theory The rulers of the people were chosen by the gods to govern. Social Contract Theory The people gave the government its power to rule them, and in return the government had to respect the people’s rights.

The Purposes of Government To maintain social order by making and enforcing laws. Provide essential services for people, such as promoting public health and safety. Protect people from attack by other states and from internal threats such as terrorism. Pass laws that shape and control the nation’s economy in various ways.

Formation of Government What are the similarities and differences between a unitary and a federal government system? What are the main purposes of a constitution?

Formation of Government The relationship of the national government and smaller divisions (like states or counties) can be described as either unitary or federal.

Formation of Government A unitary system of government gives all key powers to the national or central government. A federal system of government divides the powers of government between the national government and state or provincial governments. Which type of system do we have?

Discussion Question What are the major advantages of a federal system of government? Security against a concentration of power; participation at more levels of government.)

Constitutions and Government A constitution is a plan that provides the rules for government. Whether written or unwritten, a constitution organizes the structure of government and the way it operates. Constitutions set out the goals and purposes of government as well as the ideals shared by the people. Constitutions provide the supreme law for states and their governments.

Politics and Government Politics is the effort to control or influence the policies and actions of government. Individuals and groups use politics to seek benefits from government. Although special interest groups seek special benefits, politics also provides benefits for all the people.

Governing in the 21st Century The world today is divided into industrialized nations, developing nations, and newly industrialized nations. These groups of nations have many differences, but they are interdependent in many ways.