Chapter 1: Foundations of Government

How do the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution define the United States?

• They express the values and ideas about government that form American political culture.

• They empower the people to abolish and replace a government failing its duties.

• They limit the power of government while expanding people's rights.

• They incorporate elements of philosophical and religious influences.

Answer explanation

The Declaration of Independence and the Constitution articulate core values and principles that shape American political culture, emphasizing democracy, liberty, and the role of government in serving the people.

In what type of dictatorship does the government control most aspects of a country’s social and economic life?

• autocracy

• totalitarian

• monarchy

• authoritarian

Answer explanation

A totalitarian dictatorship exerts control over all aspects of life, including social and economic activities, unlike autocracies or authoritarian regimes that may allow some personal freedoms.

Why is direct democracy as a form of government uncommon in the United States today?

• It would be practical only for the national level of government.

• It would be practical only in small communities where people can meet.

• It does not allow the people to have a say in how they are governed.

• It does not allow the people to choose their representatives.

Answer explanation

Direct democracy is impractical for large populations, as it requires frequent in-person meetings. It works better in small communities where citizens can gather easily to discuss and vote on issues.

How do the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution define the United States?

• They express the values and ideas about government that form American political culture.

• They empower the people to abolish and replace a government failing its duties.

• They limit the power of government while expanding people's rights.

• They incorporate elements of philosophical and religious influences.

Answer explanation

The Declaration of Independence and the Constitution articulate core values and principles that shape American political culture, emphasizing democracy, liberty, and the role of government in serving the people.

How is the principle of limited government in the Magna Carta reflected in the structure of U.S. government?

• The Constitution guarantees the rights to liberty and equality.

• The U.S. government is subject to checks and safeguards.

• The Constitution established the executive branch of government.

• The U.S. government is required to protect citizens’ rights.

Answer explanation

The principle of limited government in the Magna Carta is reflected in the U.S. government through checks and safeguards, ensuring that no single branch has unchecked power, thus protecting citizens' rights and liberties.

The power to make treaties with other countries is part of which essential purpose of government?

• resolving conflicts

• enforcing laws

• defending the country

• providing public services

Answer explanation

The power to make treaties is essential for defending the country, as it establishes diplomatic relations and alliances that enhance national security.

In what system of government does the state own and control all capital and natural resources?

• socialism

• communism

• conservatism

• capitalism

Answer explanation

In communism, the state owns and controls all capital and natural resources, aiming for a classless society. This distinguishes it from socialism, where there may be some private ownership.

In a presidential democracy, who makes the laws and who carries them out?

• The president has the power to make laws and to carry them out.

• The president has the power to make laws, and Congress carries them out.

• Congress has the power to make laws and to carry them out.

• Congress has the power to make laws, and the president carries them out.

Answer explanation

In a presidential democracy, Congress is responsible for making laws, while the president is tasked with executing and enforcing those laws. Therefore, the correct answer is that Congress makes the laws and the president carries them out.

Why should government provide public services?

• to help government officials get reelected

• to avoid unnecessary tax increases

• to furnish things that individuals cannot

• to prevent duplication of benefits

Answer explanation

The government provides public services to furnish things that individuals cannot supply on their own, such as infrastructure, education, and healthcare, ensuring equitable access and addressing collective needs.

How does partisanship affect politics?

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Answer explanation

Partisanship creates divisions in political opinions, leading to polarized debates and gridlock in decision-making. It influences voter behavior, party loyalty, and policy priorities, often hindering bipartisan cooperation.