Unitary and Federal Systems in Governance

The video explores the concepts of unitary and federal systems of governance, highlighting their differences and examples from around the world. It discusses the historical context of these systems, the role of primate cities in unitary states, and the reasons for capital relocation in federal states. The video concludes by weighing the benefits and challenges of each system, emphasizing the importance of understanding governance in human geography.

What is the term used to describe the division of power between state and federal levels in the United States?

• Federalism

• Monarchy

• Unitary System

• Confederation

Which of the following is a characteristic of a unitary system?

• Multiple smaller governments exist under one larger government

• One centralized power holds all the authority

• Power is shared between national and local governments

• Local governments have considerable self-rule

In which type of governance system do states or provinces have considerable self-rule?

• Monarchy

• Oligarchy

• Federal System

• Unitary System

Which of the following is NOT a feature of a federal system?

• Local governments can make decisions independently

• Power is divided between national and local governments

• States have their own legislatures

• Power is concentrated in a central government

What is a primate city?

• A city that is the oldest in the country

• A city that is at least twice as large as the next biggest city and dominates the culture and economy

• A city that is the capital of a country

• A city that is located on the coast

Which country is an example of a unitary state?

• China

• Germany

• India

• United States

What is a forward thrust capital?

• A capital city that is located in a mountainous region

• A capital city that is moved to a coastal area

• A capital city that is moved to unite people or encourage inland settlement

• A capital city that is the largest in the country

Why did Brazil move its capital to Brasilia?

• To be closer to neighboring countries

• To reduce overcrowding in coastal cities

• To become closer to the coast

• To improve trade with Europe

Which of the following is a benefit of a unitary state?

• Laws are standardized across the country

• Changes in governance are slow

• Local governments have significant autonomy

• Power is distributed among various regions

What is a potential downside of a unitary system?

• It is difficult to implement laws uniformly

• It can lead to corruption or abuses of power

• Decisions are made too slowly

• Local governments have too much power