Forms of Government and Their Characteristics

The video tutorial explores various forms of government, including autocracy, democracy, oligarchy, theocracy, and anarchy. It explains how power is distributed in each system, with examples like monarchies, dictatorships, and representative democracies. The video also discusses real-world examples, such as Switzerland's democratic system and North Korea's dictatorship, highlighting the differences in citizen participation and leadership. The tutorial concludes with a chart categorizing governments based on who holds power.

What is a common feature of all governments around the world?

• They all practice democracy.

• They all have someone in charge.

• They all have a written constitution.

• They all have a king or queen.

In a monarchy, how does a king or queen typically come to power?

• By being appointed by a council.

• Through a democratic election.

• By overthrowing the previous ruler.

• Through their family line.

What distinguishes a dictatorship from a monarchy?

• A dictator shares power with a parliament.

• A monarchy is always a democracy.

• A dictator has absolute control over the constitution.

• A dictator is elected by the people.

In a representative democracy, how do citizens influence the government?

• By electing leaders to represent their interests.

• By directly voting on all laws.

• By participating in daily government operations.

• By inheriting political positions.

What is a key characteristic of a direct democracy?

• Citizens are directly involved in lawmaking.

• Religious leaders govern the country.

• Citizens elect representatives to make decisions.

• A small group of people holds all the power.

What does the term 'oligarchy' mean?

• Rule by a divine being.

• Rule by a few people.

• Rule by the entire population.

• Rule by a single individual.

How does a theocracy differ from other forms of government?

• It has no formal government structure.

• It is governed by military officers.

• It is always a form of democracy.

• It recognizes a divine being as the ultimate authority.

What is the defining feature of an anarchy?

• No one is in control, or everyone is.

• A government based on religious laws.

• A small group of people governs the country.

• A single ruler with absolute power.

How does Switzerland's government demonstrate both representative and direct democracy?

• Citizens elect representatives and vote directly on laws.

• Religious leaders make all governmental decisions.

• A king or queen shares power with elected officials.

• Military officers rule the country after a coup.

Why is North Korea considered a dictatorship?

• Citizens have multiple candidates to choose from.

• One person leads with total control over society.

• It has a king or queen as the head of state.

• It is governed by a small group of military officers.