Principles of Government Quiz

Which of the following is NOT a basic type of power exercised by governments?

• Legislative power
• Executive power
• Judicial power
• Economic power

According to the Force Theory, how did the state come into existence?

• Through a voluntary act of free people
• Through the natural evolution of the early family
• Through the creation of God
• Through the control and force exerted by one person or a small group

What is the main purpose of government according to the Preamble of the Constitution of the United States?

• To establish justice and promote the general welfare
• To provide for the common defense and secure the blessings of liberty
• To form a more perfect union and ensure domestic tranquility
• All of the above

In a democracy, where does supreme political authority rest?

• With the government
• With the president
• With the people
• With the military

What is the economic system characterized by private or corporate ownership of capital goods and investments determined by private decision?

• Socialism
• Communism
• Free enterprise
• Fascism

Which of the following is a basic concept of democracy?

• A recognition of the fundamental worth and dignity of every person
• A belief in the divine right of rulers
• A preference for dictatorship over majority rule
• An acceptance of the necessity of absolute power

What is the geographic distribution of governmental power in a unitary government?

• Power is divided between a central government and several local governments
• Power is held by a single, central agency
• Power is shared equally among all citizens
• Power is concentrated in the hands of a dictator

What is the relationship between the legislative and executive branches of government in the United States?

• The legislative branch makes laws and executive branch enforces laws

• The executive branch interprets laws and settles disputes
• The legislative branch executes and administers laws
• The executive branch makes laws and legislative branch enforces laws

Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of the state?

• Population
• Territory
• Sovereignty
• Economic system

What is the form of government where those who rule cannot be held responsible to the will of the people?

• Democracy
• Dictatorship
• Monarchy
• Anarchy