The Canadian Government

Unit 2

Government: Why is it necessary?

Government – a system by which a group of people makes the laws (principals and regulations) that are enforced to guide the affairs of a community.

Shipwreck Scenario

P.g 93 in Textbook

How are Decisions Made?

One person could decide – where does this take place?

The team could reach a decision by giving each member a vote.

This is democratic decision making

The team could discuss names and logos and make a decision only when all members agree. This is called a consensus.

What are some of the advantages and disadvantages of each?

Politics

A human activity in which one individual or group opposed to another mobilizes support to obtain power to govern.

Politics is formally associated with governments. Informally politics occurs whenever individuals or groups struggle for advantage.

Types of Government

1) Authoritarian – dominated by one person in what is called a dictatorship.

2) Democratic – make decisions based on the will of the people. Citizens choose

3) Consensus – people will discuss an issue until everyone agrees to accept a resolution.

Power and Politics

Governments must use power so that people obey laws.

Authoritarian governments rely heavily on the threat or use of military or police force to ensure orderly behavior.Coercion

Democracies rely on influence: the ability to persuade people to do something.

Democracy

In a democracy, citizens have power.

If people disagree with the government, they can:Contact government representativesWrite letters to newspapers and other mediaPut up a websiteGather support from other citizensForm or join organizations that oppose a law or

actionOrganize and participate in demonstrations

Civil society is composed of organizations and movements that citizens create outside government.

They work for a common good by addressing social problems and needs.

Civil Conflict and The Rule of Law

Governments, groups, and individuals use different methods to resolve conflicts.

Authoritarian governments use force

Democracies must rely on the institutions of government and the rule of law.

Different Ways to Solve Disputes

Negotiate – discussing the issues

Mediate – a third party is called in to try and mediate an agreement between the two parties

Arbitrate – the third party listens to both sides, and then makes a decision for them.

The Elements of Democracy

1) Democratic decisions are made for the good of most people, most of the timeCitizens in democracies vote for representatives to

make decisions and pass laws that they, the citizens support

2) Democracy emphasizes legal and political equalityAll citizens in a democracy are equal before the law

and in political life.

3) Democracy protects minorities

4) Democracy encourages peace, respect and tolerance in citizens.