Types of Governments Chapter 1 Section 3

Section 3 Major Types of Government According to Aristotle the three major types of governments are: Autocracy: One person has all authority. A monarchy is another form of government in which a king, queen or emperor inherits the throne and heads the state.

Section 3 Major Types of Government (cont.) Oligarchy: A small group holds power. Oligarchs derive their power from wealth, social position, military power or a combination of these.

Section 3 Major Types of Government (cont.) Democracy: The people govern either directly or through representatives. An assembly of people’s representatives may be called a council, a legislature, a congress or a parliament. In a republic voters elect representatives. Only a small percentage of people might be empowered to vote.

Section 3 Characteristics of Democracy A true democracy is defined by four characteristics: Individual liberty All people are as free as possible to develop their talents. Majority rule with minority rights Elected representatives enact laws that reflect the will of the majority of lawmakers.

Section 3 Characteristics of Democracy (cont.) The rights of the minority are respected and protected. Free elections Everyone’s vote carries the same weight. All candidates have the right to express their views freely. Citizens are free to help candidates or support issues.

Section 3 Characteristics of Democracy (cont.) Legal requirements for voting are kept to a minimum. Citizens vote by secret ballot without coercion or fear of punishment. Competing political parties. A political party is a group of individuals with broad common interests organized to win elections, conduct government and determine public policy.

Section 3 Characteristics of Democracy (cont.) Rival parties make elections meaningful by giving voters a choice.