The Nature of Power, Politics, and Government Vocabulary

What is the definition of POWER?

• forcing people to do what the president wants

• the ability to make others do what you would have them do

• persuasion and coercion

• ruling over somebody

How many sources of power are there?

• 1

• 10

• 3

• 5

What is the definition of AUTHORITY?

•  People with the right to use power

• The person in charge of the country

• being obedient

• your teacher

What is the definition of LEGITAMACY?

• corrupt power

• An unwritten contract between its ruler and their people

• Leaders whose power and authority are accepted as valid by the people they govern

• praising someone for ruling

What is the definition of COERCION?

• abuse of power

• Bribing people to do what you want

• Bullying

• The use of force

What is the definition of EXPERTISE?

• a ruler with the most knowledge

• the power holder's specific skills

• a know-it all

• an unwritten thing we all agree to between the ruler and the ruled

What is the definition of REWARDS? (in regards to power)

• the power holder's ability to punish or penalize others

• Getting a sticker after you vote

• the power holder's ability to give something of value, responsibility, or praise

• source of authority that comes from a constitution, contract, or other legal document

What is NOT purpose of government

• maintaining public order

• collecting taxes

• protecting life and property

• providing public goods

What is one characteristic of a public good?

• anything you use from the government

• free food outside

• more than one person can consume them without reducing the amount available to others

What is another characterization of a public good?

• if it runs out, that is okay, it just takes a while to replinish

• once it is made available, people have to sign up to use it

• you have to be a citizen to use it

• once it is made available, all people have the right to use it