1. Political Systems of the World

2. If I were to leave this class alone to rule itself, what would happen?  Who would be ruler?  How would decisions be made?

3. Primitive Civilizations  Darwin- Survival of the fittest (only the strongest and brightest Survive) In the beginning, groups were so small, normally the eldest or strongest male ruled but as civilizations emerged, groups had to find way to organize in order to survive as a whole.

4. Democracy Citizens (in early times only males) votes, majority wins! Direct Democracy Examples: Ancient Greece, Classrooms, families Democracy as a form of government dates back to the time of the ancient Greeks. “Democracy” is actually a word of Greek origins using the Greek prefix “Demos” meaning people and the suffix “cracy” meaning to rule. Therefore, the meaning of “democracy” is literally “rule by the people”.

5. What could be wrong with Democracy?  Pro: Majority of people gets what they want. Chosen leader, limited power  Con: Time consuming, difficult with large numbers, decisions are time consuming

6. Republic  Citizens vote for public officials whom vote for policies on their behalf  Examples. Ancient Roman Empire, United States

7. Pro/Con of a Republic  Pro: Majority still normally gets what they want, Chosen leader, limited power  Con: Decision making is very time consuming

8. Monarchy  Rule by a King or Queen (ruling family)Divine Right  Example: Early England, France, Spain  Pro: Quick decisions  Con: Decisions are based on one person. Leader not chosen. Unlimited Power  Eventually there will be constitutional monarchies

9. Oligarchy  Rule by a few people or groups  Pro: Quick decisions  Con: Group can be corrupt. May only be looking for own interests. Leaders may or may not be chosen

10. Theocracy Rule by Religious official. “God Rule” Government is run by head of religion Pro: Rule falls in line with majority of people’s beliefs, quick decisions Con: Rule by one person. Strict code. Example: Iran, Saudi Arabia

11. Dictatorships Rule by one military ruler. Head of Military Example: North Korea, Former Iraq, Nazi Germany Pro: Quick decisions Con: One ruler makes all decision. Normally fear and terror keeps power. Citizen’s rights not recognized. Unlimited power