2/5 Why Government

1. Collect Syllabus
2. Why Govt. ---Lecture 1-1:
American Government Lecture Notes 1-1

Did You Know?—In the last 50 years the number of countries in the world has more than doubled. In 2000, there were 196 independent countries, each with its own people and government.

I. Essential Features of a State
a. Population, the obvious feature
b. An area with fixed boundaries (Territory)
c. Sovereignty
d. Government

Discussion Question—U.S. citizens sometimes complain about government, claiming it has too much power and control over their lives. Why do you think they feel this way?

II. Theories and Origin of the State
a. Evolutionary Theory
b. Force Theory
c. Divine Right Theory
d. Social Contract Theory

Discussion Question—During World War II the government imposed hardships, such as the rationing of gasoline and food, on the U.S. population. Are such measures justifiable? Why or why not?

III. The Purposes of Government
a. Maintain social order
b. Provide Public Services
c. Provide National Security
d. Making Economic Decisions

Discussion Question—With hurricane Katrina in New Orleans the U.S. government has been called upon to help the victims of this natural disaster. In what ways does the relief effort exemplify the purposes of government?


3. Ch. 2 S2-4 RG Assigned:
American Government - Unit I: Foundations Ch. 2Sec 2-4 Reading Guide
Ch. 2 Sec 2
1. Identify the way that families meet people’s needs.
2. Explain the role of religion.
3. Describe the importance of education.
4. define the following: family & blended family.

Ch. 2 Sec 3
5. define the following: economy, consumer, market, money
6. Explain the characteristics of the American economy.
7. Identify American economic freedoms.
8. Describe your role in the American economy.

Ch. 2 Sec 4
9. define the following: monarchy, dictatorship, democracy, patriotism, political socialization.
10. What are the four roles of government?
11. Describe what a monarchy is, a dictatorship is, and what a democratic government is.
12. What are the roles of laws in government?
13. What are examples of political socialization?