Citizen Participation A. O. D

What is going on in this picture? What level of citizen participation is represented in the above picture? Autocratic Oligarchic, or Democratic??

Autocratic autocracy

What is going on in this picture?

What is going on in this picture? Oligarchic Oligarchy

What is going on in this picture?

What is going on in this picture? Democratic democracy

What is autocracy? (Self) Auto - Self + Kratos – Authority – One person rules with unlimiteed power Government in which the power to govern is held by one person. “ The leader has unlimited power and the citizen do not vote or have no role in the government. Rulers come into power through bloodline or strong military background There are two forms of autocracy. Can you guess the TWO types of Autocratic governments? Here’s a hint: These guys would eliminate free speech, abolish opposing political parties, and personal freedoms.

1. Absolute monarchy ONE ruler The king makes all of the rules and has no patience for the lowly citizens The citizens have no way to participate in the government of an absolute monarchy

Absolute monarchy

2. dictatorship Dictators are examples of Autocratic governments because they have complete control over their citizens They usually use military force to boss the citizens around The citizens cannot speak out against the dictator, or else…

And the 2nd type of Autocracy is…

Autocratic ADVANTAGES DISADVANTAGES One-person rule. Ruler has total control. Absolute monarchs and dictatorships are examples. ADVANTAGES DISADVANTAGES 1. People are afforded little or no individual liberty. Civil rights are trampled on. 1. 1. People may be united in their loyalty to a dictator since there is no competition for trust and affection. 2. A dictator’s policies suit his/her own needs. Needs of the people may be neglected. 2. 2. In an emergency, a dictator can move quickly to take action. No time is lost in debate or discussion. 3. Decision making has a narrow base - can be flawed, wrong, dangerous, and not fully supported by the people.

Review…….The 2 types of autocracies are… Absolute Monarchies? Dictatorships?

What is oligarchy? Oligos = few A government in which a few people, such as a dominant clan or clique, have power. The group gets their power from either military, wealth, or social status and only answers to each other. Citizen has limited or no role. Examples: Greek city states

Oligarchy ADVANTAGES DISADVANTAGES Form of government in which the power is in the hands of a few persons or small group (who have the combined power of a dictator.) ADVANTAGES DISADVANTAGES 1. Decisions can be made quickly. Same as Dictatorship 1. (Needs and wants of the people are not considered.) 2. May provide expert leadership while avoiding the danger of one-person rule. 3. In theory, they are the most educated members of society. 4. Members of the oligarchy listen to each other - they work together to rule.

1. Presidential 2. Parliamentary What is democracy? Demos – people + kratos – authority = authority of the people People hold the power in government; people elect representatives , a leader , and have many rights There are TWO types of Democratic governments in the world 1. Presidential 2. Parliamentary

Parliamentary Democracy Citizens vote for members of the legislative branch, and then the legislature (Parliament) chooses the leader The citizens DO NOT get to directly choose the leader They have to vote on members of legislature first, and then those representatives choose the leader Head of government and head of state are TWO different people Examples: United Kingdom, Germany, Canada, Australia

Presidential Citizens usually vote for members of the executive AND legislative branch Citizens directly vote for the leader A single person is elected as the leader This person is both head of government (chief executive) and head of state Examples: U.S.A., Russia, Mexico

Let’s Review… Parliamentary: Citizens do not vote directly for the leader. They vote on the legislature, then the legislature chooses the leader. Presidential: Citizens directly vote on the leader. Which would you prefer to participate in??

Parliamentary System Presidential System Executive Executive Legislature Select Elect Elect Legislature Elect Citizens Citizens

DISADVANTAGE ADVANTAGES Democracy Government in which people elect representatives who hold the decision making power. ADVANTAGES DISADVANTAGE 1. Citizens are involved in decision making through their representatives, lobbying, and voting. 2. Representatives are aware their job depends on meeting the needs of their constituents. 3. More likely that all elements of the population are represented 4. Generally, reps are educated and more- capable citizens who can devote time needed to solve complex problems. 1. Decision making is time consuming. Desire of representatives to please everyone may cripple system. 2. Representatives may not always agree with those they represent. 3. Lack of involved citizenry may allow special interest groups to influence or dominate representatives.