Political Systems of the World

If I were to leave this class alone to rule itself, what would happen?

Who would be ruler?How would decisions be made?

Anarchy?

Primitive Civilizations

Social Darwinism- Survival of the fittest (only the strongest and brightest Survive)

In the beginning, groups were so small, normally the eldest or strongest male ruled but as civilizations emerged, groups had to find way to organize in order to survive as a whole.

Democracy= power to the people

Citizens (in early times only males) votes, majority wins! Direct DemocracyExamples: Ancient Greece, Classrooms, families

What could be wrong with Democracy?

Pro: Majority of people gets what they want. Chosen leader, limited power

Con: Time consuming, difficult with large numbers, decisions are time consuming

Republic:Citizens vote for public officials whom vote for policies on their behalf

Examples. Ancient Roman Empire, United States

Pro/Con of a Republic

Pro: Majority still normally gets what they want, Chosen leader, limited powerCon: Decision making is very time consuming

Monarchy: Rule by a King or Queen (ruling family)

Divine RightExample: Early England, France, Spain

Pro: Quick decisions, BloodlineCon: Decisions are based on one person. Leader not chosen. Unlimited Power

Eventually there will be constitutional monarchies

  

Oligarchy: Rule by a few people or groups

Pro: Quick decisionsCon: Group can be corrupt. May only be looking for own interests. Leaders may or may not be chosen

   

Theocracy: Rule by Religious official.

“God Rule” Government is run by head of religionPro: Rule falls in line with majority of people’s beliefs, quick decisionsCon: Rule by one person. Strict code.

Example: Iran, Saudi Arabia

Dictatorships: Rule by one military ruler. Head of Military

Example: North Korea, Former Iraq, Nazi GermanyPro: Quick decisionsCon: One ruler makes all decision. Normally fear and terror keeps power. Citizen’s rights not recognized. Unlimited power