Institutes of Society: Government

The Role of Government in Society Government influences all parts of lives (bank, taxes, police, streets). Government is responsible for keeping order in a society, but sometimes people don’t like laws that they see as wrong (speeding limits, seat belts). What are some way government influences us?

The main source of revenue (money) for the federal government is income tax. It makes up 48% of their money. With income tax money the government pays for things such as roads, welfare, employment insurance, old pension, healthcare, etc. What are other services government provides?

Governments have taken over some things that used to be the responsibility of the family. Schools are now run by the government and include Drivers Education and Family Life Education. Older people are often placed into retirement homes that are partly paid for by the government.

Customs vs. Laws Customs are practices that are considered the norm. When people don’t follow a custom, the society will often enforce the custom. Laws are customs that are enforced by the government. – Eg: There was a time when abuse of family members was not formally written into law. Family abuse was not a custom, but it was taken care of within the family or neighbourhood. Now abuse is illegal and family services will investigate abuse. Laws are governmental control over the people in a society. The government in Canada has the power to make laws and enforce them because they have authority and power.

Functions of Government 1.To make laws so society can run smoothly. 2.To maintain public order by setting up courts with judges who hand out punishment to lawbreakers. 3.To make laws on buying and selling of property and contacts. 4.To protect the rights of all citizens in freedom of movement, speech, religion, and vote. 5.To make laws that reflect society’s values.