Chapter 1 Section 1 Principles of Government

If men were angels, no government would be necessary If men were angels, no government would be necessary. James Madison The Federalist No. 51

Questions to ask yourself Is Government important in our daily lives? Do we need government in our society? What would happen with the absence of government? What is the best form of government?

What is Government? Government is the institution through which society makes and enforces public policies Public Policy- Everything a government does! Examples?

What percentage of Americans can name the three branches of government? A recent poll found that nearly three-quarters of those asked could name each of the Three Stooges  — Larry, Curly and Moe — but only 42 percent were able to name the legislative, executive and judicial branches of government.

Three Branches of Government Legislative-Makes the laws Executive-Enforces the laws Judicial-Interprets and applies the laws

Legislative Branch United States Congress Indiana General Assembly Porter County Council Chesterton Town Council

Executive Branch Executive Branch President of the U.S. State Governors County Commissioners City Mayors Executive Branch

State Judicial Branch Indiana Supreme Court Court of Appeals Federal U.S. Supreme Court Court of Appeals District Courts Indiana Supreme Court State Court of Appeals Circuit and Superior Courts

What are some recent examples of the branches of government at work?

What is a Constitution? Set of rules for government Sets out ideals Establishes the structure and powers of a government SUPREME LAW of the country

The Social Contract Theory State of Nature = Anarchy Therefore, people give up some of their personal freedom (the freedom of anarchy, such as it is) and give the government the authority to enforce laws and agreements Agreement between the GOVERNED and the GOVERNMENT State is to serve the will of the people and the people are the source of political power

PURPOSES OF GOVERNMENT …form a more perfect union, establish justice, insure domestic tranquility, provide for the common defense, promote the general welfare, and secure the blessing of liberty… Preamble to the Constitution

Establish Justice The law must be reasonable, fair and impartial MLK – “injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere”

Insure Domestic Tranquility Maintain order in Society Absence of Government =Absence of Civilized Life ANARCHY!! Somalia….. “If men were angels, no government would be necessary.” James Madison

Provide for the Common Defense Protect its citizen, against foreign threats and enemies

Promote the General Welfare Provide services that make community life possible and promote the general welfare of society. Examples?

Secure the Blessings of Liberty Many guarantees of rights and liberties set out in the Constitution These are not absolute nor forever Must stand up for liberty when it is threatened