1. Lesson 1: Government and Democracy

2. What is government? The role of government is to make decisions and laws for the people living in its country, province, city or town. The purpose of government is to protect its citizens and provide services to support them.

3. How do governments compare? There are different types governments around the world and they can be compared in the following ways: a) Who receives power/how power is shared b) How they are formed c) The rights and freedoms provided to citizens

4. Autocracy Autocracy = one person A system of government run by a ruler with total power over all aspects of life. The ruler is called a dictator and often has the support of the military – without permission of the people. Citizens have few rights and freedoms. Examples: North Korea, Syria, Kazakhstan.

5. Oligarchy Oligarchy = select group of people A system of government where the power rests with a few people. Power is determined by family or wealth. Citizens have some rights and freedoms. Examples: Saudi Arabia, Kuwait.

6. Democracy Democracy = all people A system of government in which power is shared by all people. Citizens have access to power and these countries have fair elections. Citizens have guaranteed rights and freedoms (e.g., the right to vote, freedom of speech). Examples: Canada, United States, Japan, Germany.

7. Theocracy Theocracy = a god or deity is recognized as the main civil ruler A system of government where government decisions are made by religious leaders who are seen to be directly guided by a god or deity. Laws are interpreted by religious authorities and enforced by religious officials. Examples: Iran, Vatican City.

8. Canada’s Government Canada is a democracy and a constitutional monarchy. A constitutional monarchy can be either a democracy or an autocratic state. Canada is part of the British Commonwealth and is connected to the Crown. The Queen of England is also Canada’s Queen. The Queen accepts the decisions of the Canadian Government, but she continues to play important ceremonial and symbolic roles.

9. Final Thoughts What would life be like without a government? What are pros and cons of each type of government? Would you prefer to live in an autocracy or a democracy? Why?