POLI330 Week 1 Discussion 1 & 2 Latest 2018 January
dq 1
WEEK 1: POLITICS IN OUR DAILY LIVES
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As we read and discuss the definition of politics, let's also consider the consequences of political decisions on our everyday lives. Can you think of examples from your everyday life when you encounter politics? What makes these experiences "political"?
As you discuss this with one another, let's not forget to comment on other people's experiences. Have you experienced similar situations? Can you think of creative ways in which politics plays itself out in your daily life?
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WEEK 1: THE STUDY OF POLITICAL SCIENCE
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The reading this week discusses the role of political scientists and their attempts to treat the study of politics as a science. In these efforts, they build scholarship based on reason, balance, and supporting evidence, although much of this scholarship is based on theory.
Discuss how political scientists attempt to quantify data, manipulate data statistically, and attempt to validate hypotheses.
POLI330 Week 2 Discussion 1 & 2 Latest 2018 January
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WEEK 2: UNDERSTANDING THE THEORIES
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As your text explains, Plato is considered the father of political science. Within The Republic, he presents his theories on the foundations of a perfect government. Rather than a theoretical examination of government, The Republic is written in story form, as the main character Socrates explores the ideal way to form a city.
A largely studied portion of The Republic deals with Plato’s cave allegory. The story goes something like this: You, as a person, find yourself within a cave, chained to the ground, facing a stone wall. You cannot stand, and all you know are the images that play out before you, which are the shadows cast by a light source from behind you. You cannot see behind you, but you know that there are others in the cave with you. This is the only state you have ever known. It is your only reality of the world. Plato goes on to explain that then one day, people come and remove your chains, and take you out of the cave. As you can imagine, you are scared and frightful, and thus fight these individuals as they drag you into this new setting. However, over time you learn to accept the larger image of the world around you and come to understand life outside of the cave. You then attempt to go back into the cave to free others.
This story was Plato’s attempt to explain the world around us. Just picture it: You are chained to the ground and all you can see in front of you is a cave wall. There is a light source behind you, which casts reflections on the wall.
What do you think you would think of these reflections? Could they represent family members? Or friends? What about a god?
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WEEK 2: LIBERALISM VERSUS SOCIALISM
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The termliberalism, when applied to governments, is very different from the termliberal in America. Where liberalism implies a limited government, here in the United States a liberal is not usually seen as supporting a smaller government. This can be very confusing. In an effort to better understand these various meanings, we need to explore the variations within liberalism itself.
So who would like to explain how modern liberalism varies from classical liberalism? In addition, in what ways is classical liberalism similar to conservatism today?
POLI330 Week 3 Discussion 1 & 2 Latest 2018 January
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WEEK 3: DEMOCRACIES COMPARED
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Over the past few weeks, we have had the opportunity to explore the roots of political philosophy. Let’s take a moment to focus in upon the idea of democracy. What is the true definition of democracy?
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WEEK 3: THE DIVISION OF POWER
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As we have seen through our readings, governments differ on where the power of the state should be held.
Unitary systems concentrate the power within the central government and little or no authority is granted to the component areas. In contrast, federal systems allow first-order civil divisions to have some autonomy, while the central government maintains authority over some areas.
Take a moment to compare and contrast the strengths and weaknesses of each system.
POLI330 Week 4 Discussion 1 & 2 Latest 2018 January
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WEEK 4: POLITICAL PARTIES AND INTEREST GROUPS
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We continually hear about interest groups in the news. Understanding this, what is the relationship between interest groups and government? How does this apply to government-created interest groups? In addition, what are the effects of bureaucrats as interest groups? Do you believe this crossover between bureaucrats and interest groups to be right? Please be sure to provide specific examples in your response.
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WEEK 4: ELECTIONS
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Compare and contrast single-member districts and proportional representation (PR). How effective is each electoral system in representing its people’s interests? How do they support the party systems around which they arose?
POLI330 Week 5 Discussion 1 & 2 Latest 2018 January
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WEEK 5: PARLIAMENTARY AND PRESIDENTIAL SYSTEMS
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As we turn our focus to the international realm, let’s take a moment to compare the governmental systems of the United Kingdom and the United States.
Identify a few key differences between a parliamentary and a presidential system. How is the top leader selected differently? How do you think this difference impacts the kind of people who are chosen?
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WEEK 5: THE U.S. SUPREME COURT
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The lesson this week suggests that the U.S. Supreme Court is the least democratic branch of government, and yet it serves an important function in our democracy.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of having a branch of government that is not democratically elected? Would you change the way the court is appointed?
POLI330 Week 6 Discussion 1 & 2 Latest 2018 January
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WEEK 6: WELFARE SYSTEMS
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Examine the efficacy of U.S. welfare programs. What do such programs intend to accomplish? What are some criticisms against them? Be sure to cite specific academic examples, not just ones from your opinion.
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WEEK 6: WELFARE SYSTEMS
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Examine the efficacy of U.S. welfare programs. What do such programs intend to accomplish? What are some criticisms against them? Be sure to cite specific academic examples, not just ones from your opinion.
POLI330 Week 7 Discussion 1 & 2 Latest 2018 January
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WEEK 7: ETHNIC VIOLENCE
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In discussing the concept of violence this week, let’s take a moment to consider the following situation.
Imagine a country where religious factions inside a nation want to have their own separate homeland. The government refuses, claiming that the territory in question, which commands the nation’s only source of clean water, is vital to security. Is violence inevitable?
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WEEK 7: INTERNATIONAL TREATIES
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In considering the international realm, let’s consider the concept of economic treaties. Specifically, let's think about an organization like the European Union (EU).
Why was it formed? In addition, what are some of the objectives of the nations that are joining the EU?
POLI330 Week 1 CO Assessment Latest 2018 January (all graded)
Question 1
5 / 5 pts
(TCO 1) What were your economic left/right results?
Question 2
5 / 5 pts
(TCO 1) What were your social libertarian/authoritarian results?
Question 3
5 / 5 pts
(TCO 1) If a person believes that market should regulate itself, and that government should stay out of business, would he or she fall more to the right or the left side of the political scale?
Right
Left
Question 4
5 / 5 pts
(TCO 1) If a person believes that federal agencies such as the FDA, EPA, and SEC serve a public good, is he or she moving more to the right or left of 100% capitalism?
Right
Left
Question 5
5 / 5 pts
(TCO 1) If a person feels that the government is needed to ensure that all people obtain equality, would he or she fall more on the right or the left of the economic scale?
Right
Left
Question 6
5 / 5 pts
(TCO 1) If a person believes that mandatory gun safety classes should be required to buy a gun, would he or she move up or down the social scale?
Up
Down
Question 7
5 / 5 pts
(TCO 1) If a person believes that Christianity is or should be the national religion of the United States, would he or she move up or down the social scale?
Up
Down
Question 8
5 / 5 pts
(TCO 1) If a person believes that he or she knows more about his or her own life than the government, and thus should have the authority to make his or her own decisions, would he or she move more up or down the social scale?
Up
Down
POLI330 Week 2 CO Assessment Latest 2018 January (all graded)
Question 1
5 / 5 pts
(TCO 6) In a 100% capitalist structure, the owners are offered what advantages?
The owners understand that their efforts are not just for them, but for society as a whole.
They can make as much profit as they like, as long as they work hard and the market allows it.
They do not face the risk associated with large business ventures.
They don’t have to concern themselves with the welfare of their workers.
A and C
B and D
All of the above
None of the above
Question 2
5 / 5 pts
(TCO 6) In a 100% capitalist structure, the owners face what challenges?
Their overuse of the raw resources can drive them out of business.
Overworking employees may lead to low productivity, and thus lower profits.
They are seen as equal to workers.
Understanding the demands of the market can be overwhelming.
A, B, and D
B and C
Al of the above
None of the above
Question 3
5 / 5 pts
(TCO 6) In a 100% socialist structure, the owners would be offered what advantages?
They would never lose everything, because the government would provide for their needs.
Even if they fail, they have the opportunity to rise again by starting new companies if they only put their minds to it.
They can use up as many raw resources they can get their hands on, allowing for more profit potential, as long as the market allows it.
They are placed in positions that suit them, so if being owners is too hard, or if they would not be successful in it, they would not be forced into positions in which to fail.
A and B
A and D
All of the above
None of the above
Question 4
5 / 5 pts
(TCO 6) In a 100% socialist structure, the owners would be faced with what challenges?
They lose the opportunity to make and hold onto extreme profits.
They assume all the financial risk if their businesses fail.
They no longer can change careers because they “feel” like it.
They lose the ability to start new companies of their own.
A and C
B and D
A, C, and D
None of the above
Question 5
5 / 5 pts
(TCO 6) In a 100% capitalist structure, the workers are offered what advantages?
They can seek employment at any companies they like.
They have the opportunity to rise above their positions to become owners if they can.
The harder they work, the more they can earn.
They always have positions waiting for them.
A and B
A, B, and D
C and D
A, B, and C
Question 6
5 / 5 pts
(TCO 6) In a 100% capitalist structure, the workers face what challenges?
Material perks are not readily available options.
They cannot always provide for their families.
They cannot rise above and become elites.
They receive no benefits to help with paying for the cost of their injuries.
A and C
B and D
All of the above
None of the above
Question 7
5 / 5 pts
(TCO 6) In a 100% socialist structure, the worker would be offered what advantages?
Their needs are always met, whether they can work or not.
The sky is the limit for them if they try.
They can rest easy, knowing that their work provides for the welfare of the people, not a “fat cat” owner.
Medical costs are no longer a concern.
A and C
B and D
A, B, and C
A, C, and D
Question 8
5 / 5 pts
(TCO 6) In a 100% socialist structure, the worker would be faced with what challenges?
They may not always like the jobs that they do.
When injured, they earn no income.
They continually face the risk of unemployment.
There is not great opportunity to start over or do something new, because they must contribute to the cause.
A and D
B and C
All of the above
None of the above
POLI330 Week 3 CO Assessment Latest 2018 January (all graded)
Question 1
4 / 5 pts
(TCO 2) As we have been discussing, throughout history, many people were not fans of pure democracy. One of the reasons for this was the idea of factions, as addressed in Madison’s Federalist No. 10. So what is the definition of a faction?
Question 2
3 / 5 pts
(TCO 2) Why are factions a threat to a democratic government?
Question 3
4 / 5 pts
(TCO 2) According to Madison, what are the two ways to remove the cause of a faction?
Question 4
4 / 5 pts
(TCO 2) From your reading, please distinguish why the two ways to remove a faction are not effective.
Question 5
4 / 5 pts
(TCO 2) What is it about human nature that causes factions to form?
Question 6
3 / 5 pts
(TCO 2) Differentiate the characteristics of a pure democracy from a republic.
Question 7
3 / 5 pts
(TCO 2) In referencing Madison, provide at least two reasons explaining why a republic can do a better job of controlling the effects of faction than a pure democracy.
Question 8
3 / 5 pts
(TCO 2) Assess Madison’s argument. Do you find that a republican form of government is the best way to control factions, in contrast to pure democracy? And how do you think this system has worked in controlling the factions over time?
POLI330 Week 4 CO Assessment Latest 2018 January (all graded)
Question 1
4 / 5 pts
(TCO 3) From your own research, what interest group did you find? Please list its name and website information.
Question 2
5 / 5 pts
(TCO 3) From your own research, list three important pieces of information that give us a picture of what your interest group believes.
Question 3
4 / 5 pts
(TCO 3) From your own research, describe a specific policy action your group desires.
Question 4
2 / 5 pts
(TCO 3) From your own research, whom does this group lobby most, or most effectively? For example, is there a political party or certain congressional representatives who seem to get more of its attention, money, or information? Which committees and subcommittees would it particularly lobby?
Question 5
2 / 5 pts
(TCO 3) From your congress.gov research, what is the title of the legislation (include its origination or appropriate numbers)?
Question 6
2 / 5 pts
(TCO 3) From your congress.gov research, who are its key sponsors and their party affiliation?
Question 7
2 / 5 pts
(TCO 3) From your congress.gov research, what is its current status within Congress?
Question 8
2 / 5 pts
(TCO 3) From your congress.gov research, describe briefly your personal reaction to this legislation. Do you think it will pass and do you think it should pass? Why? (Two to three sentences are required.)
POLI330 Week 5 CO Assessment Latest 2018 January (all graded)
Question 1
3 / 5 pts
(TCO 4) What are your initial, nonlegal, thoughts on this case? How would you decide it based on your own belief structures? For example, if you were the judge in this case, would you would allow Mr. Trident to leave the hospital, thus bringing about his death? Or would you feel for Mr. Trident but side with the hospital because he clearly is not in the right mind to make such decisions for himself? Or would you perhaps side with the hospital because people should not be allowed to refuse medical treatment or go to the extreme of ordering the hospital to aid in the shortening of his life so that he did not have to suffer a painful death? What would you do? Please put some thought into your answer and provide at least 4–5 sentences as you explain it.
Question 2
5 / 5 pts
(TCO 4) What is the difference between moral and legal reasoning?
Moral reasoning is based upon personal views rather than legal considerations.
Legal reasoning focuses on what the law states only.
Moral reasoning can vary with cultural beliefs, whereas legal reasoning is more static within a nation.
Legal reasoning is concerned with precedent.
All of the above
A and C only
Question 3
5 / 5 pts
(TCO 4) In a true legal argument, should legal reasoning or moral reasoning be used?
Legal
Moral
Both
Neither
Question 4
5 / 5 pts
(TCO 4) Mr. Trident is arguing that the hospital has violated his 14th Amendment right to due process. What part of the 14th Amendment is he referring to in his argument?
All persons born or naturalized in the United States, and subject to the jurisdiction thereof, are citizens of the United States and of the state wherein they reside.
No state shall make or enforce any law that shall abridge the privileges or immunities of citizens of the United States.
Nor shall any state deprive any person of life, liberty, or property without due process of law.
Nor deny to any person within its jurisdiction the equal protection of the laws
All of the above
None of the above
Question 5
5 / 5 pts
(TCO 4) Cruzan v. Director, Missouri Department of Health is a case studied in the right-to-die debate. What precedent did it help to establish?
Americans have a constitutional right to die.
Americans can refuse medical treatment.
Americans must be clear in stating their wishes regarding medical treatment.
A and B
B and C
All of the above
Question 6
5 / 5 pts
(TCO 4) How does the Cruzan case factor into Mr. Trident’s argument?
It grants the right to refuse medical treatment.
It supports the hospital in its claim that Mr. Trident cannot refuse its help.
It forces the doctors to assist in Mr. Trident’s death by providing him medication to bring about his death.
A and B
A and C
None of the above
Question 7
5 / 5 pts
(TCO 4) Given the precedent established in the Cruzan case, how would you now have to decide the case if you were the judge?
I would allow Mr. Trident to leave the hospital, thus bringing about his death.
I would feel for Mr. Trident but side with the hospital, because he clearly is not in the right mind to make such decisions for himself.
I would side with the hospital, because people should not be allowed to refuse medical treatment.
I would require that the hospital aid Mr. Trident in shortening his life due to his constitution right to die.
Question 8
5 / 5 pts
(TCO 4) What other U.S. Supreme Court cases deal with the right-to-die issue?
Plessy v. Ferguson
Marbury v. Madison
Vacco v. Quill
All of the above
None of the above
POLI330 Week 6 CO Assessment Latest 2018 January (all graded)
Question 1
Not yet graded / 5 pts
(TCO 7) What is your final plan to present to the president? What changes did you decide to implement?
Question 2
Not yet graded / 5 pts
(TCO 7) Please explain why you chose the options that you did.
Question 3
Not yet graded / 5 pts
(TCO 7) How will your decisions affect the elderly, the poor, the rich, and national security if implemented?
Question 4
Not yet graded / 5 pts
(TCO 7) Was covering the hypothetical budget gap more or less difficult than you expected? Please explain.
Question 5
Not yet graded / 5 pts
(TCO 7) Which of your decisions might be perceived as politically motivated? Why?
Question 6
Not yet graded / 5 pts
(TCO 7) What are the trade-offs of preserving some programs while protecting others?
Question 7
Not yet graded / 5 pts
(TCO 7) How do your decisions result in a marginal benefit to society so that they can outweigh the marginal cost to society?
Question 8
Not yet graded / 5 pts
(TCO 7) Did doing this exercise change your feelings about the budget debate in Washington? If so, how? If not, why not?
POLI330 Week 7 CO Assessment Latest 2018 January (all graded)
Question 1
5 / 5 pts
(TCO 9) As the simulation shows, Muhammed’s father was killed by the Israelis in their war of independence, as they attempted to defend their state and enforce the boundaries established by the UN. Although this was an international decree, all Muhammed witnessed was his father’s death and the loss of his family home as the land of his forefathers was taken to make room for what many Palestinians viewed as the “occupiers.” If you were him, how would you react? For example, would you blame the Israelis for hurting your father and taking your land, and then pass on this hatred to your children so they would know never to trust the Israelis? Would you seek revenge for your family and people? Or is there a chance that you would accept the new conditions of the UN resolution because it was in the best interest of the people of the world? What about simply seeking strength in your religion and guiding your children away from the hatreds of the past in an effort to protect them? Please put some thought into your answer and provide at least 4–5 sentences as you explain it.
Question 2
(TCO 9) Within the Israeli home, Ben knows from the horrors faced by his parents what can happen when there is not a state of Israel in the world. He thus supports his state and will do anything to defend its claim to this region. How does this differ from Muhammed’s stance?
It doesn’t differ; they both suffered death and loss, and they both simply want to protect their families.
Ben has more of a claim to hardship because his parents suffered in the Holocaust.
Muhammed has been wronged the most because he lost his land and his father to the cause.
A and B
C and D
All of the above
Question 3
5 / 5 pts
(TCO 9) What do Muhammed and Ben have in common?
They are both religious.
They are both fathers.
They both love the land in which they were born.
A and B
B and C
All of the above
Question 4
5 / 5 pts
(TCO 9) Serapin and Sarah _____.
support their husbands
hate the other side for causing all the bloodshed
love their families and only wish to protect them from the violence
have trouble understanding the need for violence
A and C
All but B
Question 5
(TCO 9) Judith and Ahmed are the youngest members of their respective families. What do they have in common?
They both side with the Palestinian cause.
They both idolize their older siblings.
They think the fighting is pointless.
A and A
B and C
None of the above
Question 6
(TCO 9) Given what you have read and what you know about the conflicts between Israel and Palestine, what is the likelihood that the children will continue the cycle of violence in this land if nothing radically changes?
Because the Palestinian children fight the government and the Israeli children back the military that puts down these rebellions, the conflict is likely to continue.
The death of some will drive the call for more death, as seen in Miriam’s loss of her fiancée and Mariam’s loss of her parents.
Eventually, peace will be found, because the children will see the errors of their ways.
A and B
B and C
None of the above
Question 7
5 / 5 pts
(TCO 9) What impact has the violence in this land had on the legitimacy of the Israeli government?
Those who support the Israeli perspective, such as Ben, highly support the government.
Those who feel like Abdullah claim that Israeli is not a valid state and deserves to be destroyed.
Violence and unrest have no influence on legitimacy within governments.
A and B
None of the above
Question 8
(TCO 9) Abdullah has admittedly committed terrorist acts against Israel. According to your text, does terrorism work?
Rarely, and seldom without political and/or economic pressure
Rarely, but primarily when brought against democratic nations
Often, and without much need for political pressure to aid it
Often, but only with the assistance of economic and/or political pressure
A and B
None of the above
POLI330 Week 1 Quiz Latest 2018 January (all graded)
Question 1
3 / 3 pts
(TCO 1) Which best explains the differences between historians and political scientists?
Historians look for generalizations, and political scientists are reluctant to generalize.
Historians are reluctant to generalize, and political scientists look for generalizations.
Historians are more likely to look for comparisons than political scientists.
Historians tend to focus on nature-based explanations, and political scientists focus on nurture-based explanations.
Question 2
3 / 3 pts
(TCO 1) Which of the following did Machiavelli contribute to the study of politics?
Social contract theory
The role of power in politics
The role of wealth in society
The connection between race and politics
Question 3
3 / 3 pts
(TCO 1) When people base their views on beliefs that may not be based in reality, they are behaving _____.
irrationally
rationally
politically
legitimately
Question 4
3 / 3 pts
(TCO 1) A political leaders’ ability to command respect and exercise power is known as _____.
sovereignty
corruption
authority
legitimacy
Question 5
3 / 3 pts
(TCO 1) Issues related to a border dispute between the United States and Canada would relate to _____.
sovereignty
authority
legitimacy
monarchy
Question 6
3 / 3 pts
(TCO 1) A theory that is tested in an attempt to prove or refute with evidence, is known as _____.
scholarship
corruption
a methodology
a hypothesis
Question 7
3 / 3 pts
(TCO 1) When scholars consider various approaches to studying a given topic, they are most concerned with _____.
reason
balance
theory
rationality
Question 8
3 / 3 pts
(TCO 1) Which of the following is the best example of theory?
People join groups because of an innate desire to be with others who have similar views.
Democratic governments last longer than nondemocratic governments.
Republicans are older than Democrats.
Corruption is rampant in government.
Question 9
3 / 3 pts
(TCO 1) Which political science subfield studies the interface of politics and economics?
Public administration
Public policy
Comparative politics
Political theory
Question 10
3 / 3 pts
(TCO 1) Which are both true for most political scientists?
They think practically and seek accuracy.
They seek popularity and are skeptical of power.
They offer single causes and think abstractly.
They are skeptical of power and offer long-term consequences.
POLI330 Week 2 Quiz Latest 2018 January (all graded)
Question 1
3 / 3 pts
(TCO 6) Which of the following best characterizes Aristotle?
He explained both what is and what ought to be.
He neither explained what is nor what ought to be.
He only explained what ought to be.
He only explained what is.
Question 2
3 / 3 pts
(TCO 6) Hobbes, Locke, and Rousseau would likely agree on which of the following?
Individuals join and stay in civil society.
Empirical research is important.
Power resided with the proletariat.
Life is nasty and brutish.
Question 3
3 / 3 pts
(TCO 6) If _____ were alive, he might suggest that poor academic performance in schools could be attributed to a society that does not promote education and provides few resources devoted to schools.
Jean-Jacques Rousseau
Thomas Hobbes
John Locke
Niccolo Machiavelli
Question 4
3 / 3 pts
(TCO 6) Which of the following would most likely be supported by the bourgeoisie?
Conflict for economic gain
Minority rights
Equality for all
A revolt by the proletariat
Question 5
3 / 3 pts
(TCO 6) Which statement best supports Marxist theories?
Uneven benefits to corporations with few benefits for workers led to the economic crises in the early 2000s.
The United States provides ample opportunities for all who work hard.
Tax breaks will often create jobs, benefiting the working class.
Similarities exist between economies in both Europe and the United States.
Question 6
3 / 3 pts
(TCO 6) Which statement best applies to Adam Smith?
Marxists promoted his views because of concerns of the proletariat.
His views began as conservative, but are now associated with modern liberalism.
His views were once considered liberal, but are now promoted by conservatives.
His views have always been advocated by liberals.
Question 7
3 / 3 pts
(TCO 6) Thomas Hill Green might agree with which of the following?
Markets regulate themselves.
Taxes should benefit business owners because they allow owners to hire more workers.
No one is forced to take a job he or she doesn’t like.
Unions are necessary to protect workers against business owners.
Question 8
3 / 3 pts
(TCO 6) Modern American conservatism would favor government involvement in what activity?
Regulating markets
A progressive tax system
Religious promotion
Protecting organized labor
Question 9
3 / 3 pts
(TCO 6) _____ prefer virtually no government involvement in anything.
Marxists
Liberals
Conservatives
Libertarians
Question 10
3 / 3 pts
(TCO 6) Fascism existed during the 20th century in what country?
Italy
Iceland
Ireland
France
POLI330 Week 3 Quiz Latest 2018 January (all graded)
Question 1
3 / 3 pts
(TCO 2) Hereditary rule by one person is known as _____.
a monarchy
a republic
institutionalization
a state
Question 2
3 / 3 pts
(TCO 2) According to Aristotle, democracy is the _____ form of government by _____.
corrupt; one
corrupt; a few
corrupt; many
legitimate; many
Question 3
3 / 3 pts
(TCO 2) The idea that American states serve as “laboratories of democracy” is an advantage of _____ systems of government.
unitary
confederal
federal
proportional
Question 4
3 / 3 pts
(TCO 2) In _____, representatives are elected based on their party’s percentage of the vote.
proportional representative systems
majoritarian systems
single-member districts
multimember districts
Question 5
3 / 3 pts
(TCO 2) An advantage of a proportional representation system of government would be _____.
a strong two-party system
the ability to draw districts to favor the majority party
representation of minor parties
the ability of the central government to provide benefits to the populations
Question 6
3 / 3 pts
(TCO 2) Welfare states tend to have which of the following combinations of state ownership and welfare benefits?
High levels of state ownership and high levels of welfare benefits
High levels of state ownership but low levels of welfare benefits
Low levels of state ownership and high levels of welfare benefits
Low levels of state ownership and low levels of welfare benefits
Question 7
3 / 3 pts
(TCO 2) Judicial activism refers to _____.
liberal judges
conservative judges
judicial restraint by judges
willingness to override legislatures
Question 8
3 / 3 pts
(TCO 2) Though rare, a “true” democracy, is a system in which _____.
all citizens meet periodically to elect officials
all citizens meet periodically to elect officials and personally enact laws
popular accountability is common, but political competition is extremely limited
the wealthy almost always have greater influence than the poor
Question 9
3 / 3 pts
(TCO 2) _____ states regularly use organized terror and violence against their citizens to maintain control and achieve their goals.
Authoritarian
Transitional
Oligarchic
Totalitarian
Question 10
3 / 3 pts
(TCO 2) Describe the purpose of total control as relates to the image of the state.
To reveal the state as a genuine and open entity
To excuse the state’s invasive and/or violent political measures
To convey to the citizens a perception of only everyday order
To convey to visitors a perception of nearly perfect order
POLI330 Week 4 Quiz Latest 2018 January (all graded)
Question 1
3 / 3 pts
(TCO 3) Explain which individuals have the most influence on politics via interest groups.
Women
The elderly
A wide variety of people
Rich individuals
Question 2
3 / 3 pts
(TCO 3) Why did the 2010 healthcare reform bill contain no provision for public insurance options?
The insurance industry blocked the Democrats' efforts for a public option.
The people had no desire for a public option.
Democrats were not interested in a public option.
Farmers, heavily invested in the insurance industry, blocked them
Question 3
3 / 3 pts
(TCO 3) A great deal of legislation originates in _____.
economic downturns
corporate boardrooms
specialized agencies
secret
Question 4
3 / 3 pts
(TCO 3) Some interest groups maintain a low profile by promoting their objectives without _____ them.
lobbying for
fully funding
advertising
openly debating
Question 5
3 / 3 pts
(TCO 3) By welcoming new groups into their ranks, parties _____.
rob those groups of their individual interests and concerns
give groups a pragmatic and psychological stake in the overall political system
establish a monocultural dependence on the party system
enhance political hegemony by disenfranchising voters outside of these groups
Question 6
3 / 3 pts
(TCO 3) The American electoral system is based on the British “first past the post” (FPTP) system, named so because _____.
third parties can “post” to earn representation
major parties are subject to intense scrutiny by third parties
it resembles a horse race; even a nose better wins
it tends to promote more equal representation
Question 7
3 / 3 pts
(TCO 3) Which of the following is an advantage to having less powerful, less centralized parties?
Fluid and flexible parties may be better able to process demands from a wider range of citizens.
Multiple party platforms possess greater persuasive abilities over the general public.
Parties can form a stronger organizational identity based around a single, cohesive ideology.
Third parties can effectively shoot for power grabs at legislative seats.
Question 8
3 / 3 pts
(TCO 3) Why do Americans vote so little?
Typically, given the enormous number of immigrants the United States plays host to, most U.S. nonvoters are poorly versed in the tradition of voting, and are therefore are largely unengaged by most elections.
Typically, more than half of U.S. nonvoters say they that while they are interested in and satisfied with candidates, they still feel that their vote makes no difference or that none of the candidates are really good, and the two large parties may not offer an interesting or clear-cut choice.
Typically, most U.S. nonvoters say they are uninterested in or dissatisfied with candidates, feeling their vote makes no difference or that none of the candidates are really good, and the two large parties may not offer an interesting or clear-cut choice.
Typically, most U.S. voters find it impossible to convince others to vote, despite the fact that nonvoters are most likely to vote if convinced by those close to them.
Question 9
3 / 3 pts
(TCO 3) What was the relationship between African American voting rates and Barack Obama’s run for president?
African American voting rates rose to those of white voters as African American income and education levels rose.
African American voting rates unexpectedly remained far below those of white voters as African American income and education levels remained steady.
African American voting rates rose to those of Hispanic voters as African American income and education levels rose.
African American voting rates fell unexpectedly below those of white voters despite African American income and education levels rising.
Question 10
3 / 3 pts
(TCO 3) Why is it that in most of the world, cities have higher turnouts than rural areas?
Partly because those who live rurally tend to feel less enfranchised
Partly because urbanites have higher education levels on average
Partly because people who have lived in the same place are less likely to vote than are transients or newcomers
Partly because men tend to vote more than women
POLI330 Week 5 Quiz Latest 2018 January (all graded)
Question 1
3 / 3 pts
(TCO 5) Which of the following statements best defines feudalism?
A political structure in which power is dispersed evenly
A system of political power dispersed among layers
A political structure in which power rests with church leaders
A system of political power distributed to the working class
Question 2
3 / 3 pts
(TCO 5) Countries with limits on government have usually had feudal pasts, which suggests what about the dispersion of power?
Equal distribution of power is the only effective political structure.
Power must be distributed by the working class.
Power should be concentrated among the lower classes.
Dispersion of power is good and concentration of power is bad.
Question 3
3 / 3 pts
(TCO 5) How often does the cabinet change in a parliamentary system?
Every 4 years
Every 6 years
Every 8 years
When the cabinet is voted out or resigns
Question 4
3 / 3 pts
(TCO 5) Because of the separation of powers inherent in a presidential system, some scholars think that executive-legislative _____ is common in systems like that used in the United States.
cooperation
stagnation
deadlock
insolvency
Question 5
3 / 3 pts
(TCO 5) Describe how the election process in a parliamentary system slightly resembles presidential elections in the United States.
Party chiefs run as candidates for prime minister.
Citizens vote directly for the each new prime minister.
Citizens vote for a party member with the knowledge that the next prime minister will be the head of the largest party.
The prime minister is appointed for a 4-year term and can be reappointed one time.
Question 6
3 / 3 pts
(TCO 5) Distinguish the process that a parliamentary system uses to oust a chief executive from the one available in the U.S. presidential system.
Parliamentary systems rely on impeachment and presidential ones rely on constructive no confidence.
Parliamentary systems use constructive no confidence and presidential systems have the option of impeachment.
The prime minister can dissolve parliament and the president can resign from office.
Parliamentary systems can hold a vote of no confidence and presidential ones have the option of impeachment.
Question 7
3 / 3 pts
(TCO 4) Which of the following issues is a civil concern?
Extortion
Theft
Divorce
Trafficking
Question 8
3 / 3 pts
(TCO 4) International law consists of _____ and established customs recognized by most nations.
treaties
ratification
amendments
cease-fires
Question 9
3 / 3 pts
(TCO 4) What legal agency in the United States generates reputation-based ratings of prospective federal judges?
Judicial Ratings Bureau
Federal Bureau of Judicial Review
American Bar Association
Office of Legal Assessment
Question 10
3 / 3 pts
(TCO 4) Describe the significance of Marbury v. Madison.
The ruling laid precedent for judicial review.
The ruling stated that the president is subject to the court’s decisions.
The ruling decreed that current administrations must honor the appointments of previous administrations.
The ruling claimed that federal taxes could not be levied on the states.
POLI330 Week 6 Quiz Latest 2018 January (all graded)
Question 1
3 / 3 pts
(TCO 7) Radicals use the term “political economy” instead of _____ to describe their critique of capitalism and the inequitable distribution of wealth among nations.
Marxism
laissez-faire
public choice
Keynesian
Question 2
3 / 3 pts
(TCO 7) How do Keynesian economic policies differ from the traditional laissez-faire policies developed by Adam Smith?
Laissez-faire policies advocate for “cutthroat” capitalism, and Keynesian policies seek to spread wealth equally among a nation’s citizens.
Keynesian economics advocates for increased government control of economics, and traditional laissez-faire argues for a hands-free approach.
Smithian policies advocate for increased spending and stimuli for government-run businesses, and Keynesian economics argues for a hands-free approach.
The more liberal Smithian economies distribute wealth more evenly among society, and Keynesian economics tends to distribute wealth among the top 1%.
Question 3
3 / 3 pts
(TCO 7) During the 1970s, critics developed this new term to describe inflation with stagnant economic growth.
Growth Slope
Quagmire
Stagflation
Recession
Question 4
3 / 3 pts
(TCO 7) Between 1965 and 1973, the percentage of Americans living below the poverty line _____.
doubled
greatly decreased
slightly increased
rapidly increased
Question 5
3 / 3 pts
(TCO 7) The _____ administration simplified the Food Stamp program by eliminating the provision that recipients buy the stamps at a discount with their own money.
Kennedy
Johnson
Ford
Carter
Question 6
3 / 3 pts
(TCO 7) Medical costs consume nearly _____% of the U.S. gross domestic product, most of it paid through government and private health insurance.
11
18
22
26
Question 7
3 / 3 pts
(TCO 7) Many Americans think the federal budget goes primarily toward welfare, which is _____.
absolutely true
somewhat exaggerated
not at all the case
slightly offensive
Question 8
3 / 3 pts
(TCO 7) How does the American welfare state compare to those of other industrialized nations?
Much less is allocated to welfare in the United States.
Other nations allocate less to welfare than the United States.
The United States allocates about the same to welfare.
Few nations besides the United States maintain funds for welfare.
Question 9
3 / 3 pts
(TCO 7) What was the poverty line in 2012?
$14,505
$17,060
$23,050
$26,750
Question 10
3 / 3 pts
(TCO 7) Investigate what historically happens to conservatives when firms are supposedly “too big to fail.”
Conservatives argue for expensive bail-out packages.
Most conservatives suggest letting the free market run its course.
Most argue against expensive stimulus packages.
They switch parties.
POLI330 Week 7 Quiz Latest 2018 January (all graded)
Question 1
(TCO 9) _____ is a small or moderate change that essentially leaves the system intact.
Mass discontent
Reform
Dramatic system change
A coup d’etat
Question 2
(TCO 9) Describe what can often happen in a changing society when, during times of prosperity, some people get rich faster than others.
Jealousy is aroused.
Politicians pay more attention to poverty.
The very poor revolt.
Economists become confused.
Question 3
(TCO 9) What is likely to happen if the people are unhappy and there is no organization to focus their discontent?
They will almost assuredly turn to violence.
Not much will happen.
The people will organize themselves regardless.
They will eventually find other means of achieving contentedness.
Question 4
(TCO 9) What are the aims of terrorists via their calculated acts of terrorism?
To panic their enemies, to gain publicity and recruits, and to get the foe to overreact and drive more people to side with the terrorists
To destroy as much of the economic strength of a nation as possible
To kill national leaders
To kill their enemies, to gain recruits, and to get the UN to overreact and cause more people to side with the terrorists
Question 5
(TCO 9) According to Hannah Arendt, the American struggle was indeed a revolution, perhaps history’s only complete revolution, _____.
because it alone ended with a democratic institutions.
because it became an example for other nations.
because it managed to rout what was then the great world power.
because it alone ended with a new foundation of liberty instead of the tyranny that came after other revolutions.
Question 6
(TCO 8) Which of the following statements is generally true of sovereign nations?
Laws allow individuals to settle grievances in court.
The lack of legal enforcement forces most to settle disputes on their own.
The spirit of the law often conflicts with the letter of the law.
Written law sometimes conflicts with law as it occurs in practice.
Question 7
(TCO 8) The recent global contraction brought a new wave of _____, as one country after another started to worry about keeping jobs at home.
isolationism
outsourcing
offshoring
protectionism
Question 8
(TCO 8) A big war with a definitive outcome often brings peace because _____.
relative power is clearly seen
power struggles are safely obscured
weaker powers are rendered impotent
larger powers rest satisfied
Question 9
(TCO 8) Identify one major flaw in the current organization of the United Nations.
Larger nations maintain greater influence over world financial issues.
The organization receives support from the International Monetary Fund with no real way to repay those funds.
The U.N. has too much power and thus maintains strict authority over international security matters.
Permanent members of the Security Council maintain the right to veto anything they dislike.
Question 10
(TCO 8) According to political scientist Frank L. Klingberg, naval expenditures, annexations, armed expeditions, and diplomatic pressures reveal alternating phases of _____ in American foreign policy.
aggression and passivity
introversion and extroversion
commerce and stagnation
violence and tranquility
POLI330 Final Exam Latest 2018 January
Question 1. 1. (TCO 2) Evaluate Aristotle’s six types of government. In doing so, please be sure to list and define the categorizations. Please then assess how these classifications can be useful today to someone analysing current governmental structures. (Points: 40)
Question 2. 2. (TCO 3) Explain the relationship between electoral systems and party systems. Answers should be sure to assess this question from the perspective of both proportional representation and single-member districts and provide examples to support your points. (Points: 40)
Question 3. 3. (TCO 6) The United States has utilized multiple forms of liberalism throughout its history. Please distinguish the specific characteristics of classical and modern liberalism and outline the evolution of these forms of liberalism within the United States. Please be sure to include specific historic examples to support your points. (Points: 40)
Question 4. 4. (TCO 8) The United Nations is an international organization that promotes the idea of using diplomacy as a means of preventing war. Investigate the role of diplomacy in maintaining peace between nations. What actions might a diplomat take to encourage peace? What are some factors that may cause diplomacy to fail? Please be sure to provide specific examples in your response. (Points: 40)
