Government and the StateChapter 1Section 1

Learning Objective Define Government and the Basic

Powers every Government has

What is Government? Government – Define

Public Policies

Every government has 3 kinds of power Legislative Executive Judicial

Outlined in a Constitution Written document

Power can be held single person or small group (dictatorship) By the majority (democracy)

Learning Objective I can identify a state based on the four

required characteristics of a state

The State Body of people, living in a defined

territory, organized politically (with a government), and with power to make and enforce law without the consent of any higher authority Over 200 today

4 Characteristics of a State Population

Territory

Sovereignty

Government

Origin of the State4 Theories Force Theory

Evolutionary Theory Population formed out of

Divine Right Theory

People put in position of power All MUST obey

Social Contract Theory

Constitution is the “Contract”

The Purpose of Government Why did we create the Constitution?

Answer is in the PREAMBLE 6 Reasons

Form a More Perfect Union Establish Justice Insure Domestic Tranquility Provide for the Common Defence (sic) Promote the General Welfare Secure the Blessings of Liberty to Ourselves

and Our Posterity

6 Reasons for the Constitution Form a More Perfect Union

Establish Justice

Insure domestic Tranquility

“If men were angels, no government would be necessary” James Madison, The Federalist No. 51

6 Reasons for the ConstitutionCont. Provide for the Common Defense

Promote the General Welfare

Road repair, schools, EPA, Sewage facilities, water treatment, USDA, F&D Admin, etc.

Secure the Blessings of Liberty

These liberties are NOT ABSOLUTE???