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Western Political Thought

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Presentation on theme: "Western Political Thought"— Presentation transcript:

1 Western Political Thought
The Roots of Democracy: Where did this idea come from?

2 Why does government exist?
To provide order AND protect the people The basic “Social Contract” Deal between the People & Government People exchange some freedom for order and protection provided by the government What if government fails? You have right to change it, overthrow it, etc.

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4 Democracy: Rule by the people
Citizens People who have certain rights in a place Direct Democracy Citizens VOTE for laws, community decisions Republic Citizens elect representatives to decide for them USA is a republic!

5 Monarchy Monarchs: Kings / Queens / Emperors
Have ALL power Makes ALL final decisions Claim DIVINE RIGHT (chosen by God) Inherit power… family dynasty Most countries were monarchies into the early 1900s

6 Aristocracy / Oligarchy
Rule by the few Aristocracy: Rule by the wealthy “Aristocrat” = $$ + power + education Wealthiest nobles rule… family connections Land + resources = power and opportunity Oligarchy: Rule by the best Highly educated, talented Earn right to participate / rule

7 Dictatorship Rule by ONE strong leader or small group
Has ALL power + makes ALL decisions People OBEY! Power is seized & held by force Revolution! Military & police keep order POLICE STATE Freedom & opportunity limited Elections are fake

8 Socialism: Government Involved
Social Democracy Citizens vote, usually “coalition” of groups Government controls / regulates economy Government helps “cradle to grave” Communism = Workers (proletariat) own “means of production” Single Party (Communist) rule = ALL power Elections, but only ONE party is allowed Everybody is “the same” & gets the same, EXCEPT rulers, special contributors, etc.

9 Check for Understanding (C4U)
Why does government exist? How does the “SOCIAL CONTRACT” work? What kinds of government usually have ONE person in charge? What kinds of government do people have a real say?


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