1. Lesson 1: Government and Democracy

2. What is government? The role of government is to make decisions and laws that protect people living within its borders, and to provide services to manage certain responsibilities. In Canada there is a government for the whole country, one for each province/territory, and one for each town and city too.

3. How do governments compare? Governments around the world differ from one another and they can be compared by considering the following questions: a) Who holds the power? b) How do they get to power? c) What rights and freedoms do the people have?

4. Autocracy Autocracy = one person is the leader The ruler has total power over all the people and most aspects of their lives. The leader is called a dictator and often has the support of the military – without permission of the people. These citizens have few rights and freedoms. Examples: North Korea, Syria, Kazakhstan.

5. Oligarchy Oligarchy = several people lead together Power rests in the hands of just a few people. They usually come to power because of wealth or family lines and relationships. Citizens have some rights and freedoms. Examples: Saudi Arabia, Kuwait.

6. Democracy Democracy = All citizens have a say in determining the government and have a voice through elected representatives. Power is shared by all people through voting and elected representatives, and talking about issues and decisions that affect them. Citizens have guaranteed rights and freedoms (e.g., the right to vote, freedom of speech and expression). Examples: Canada, the United States, Japan, Germany.

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

8. Canada’s Government Canada is a democracy and a constitutional monarchy. Canada is a member of the British Commonwealth (along with 52 other countries) and is connected to the Crown. The Queen of England is also Canada’s Queen. The Queen accepts all decisions made by the Government of Canada, but she continues to play an important ceremonial role.

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