All Flashcards
Define Parliamentary System.
A system where the executive and legislative branches are fused.
Define Presidential System.
A system where the executive, legislative, and judicial branches are separate.
Define Semi-Presidential System.
A system where both a President and a Prime Minister co-exist.
Define Separation of Powers.
The division of governmental power among different branches (executive, legislative, judicial).
Define Fused Powers.
The merging of executive and legislative powers, typically in a parliamentary system.
Define Gridlock.
A situation where it is difficult to pass laws due to divided government or opposing viewpoints.
Define Authoritarian Regime.
A system where decisions are made by political elites with little citizen input.
Define Democratic Regime.
A system where citizens have greater decision-making power through elections.
Define Checks and Balances.
A system where each branch of government can limit the power of the other branches.
Define Devolution.
The transfer of powers and responsibilities from the federal government to regional governments.
What is the role of the Prime Minister in a parliamentary system?
Head of government, usually the leader of the majority party in the legislature.
What is the role of the President in a presidential system?
Head of state and head of government, directly elected by the people.
What is the role of the Legislature in a parliamentary system?
Chooses the Prime Minister and makes laws.
What is the role of the Legislature in a presidential system?
Makes laws and can check the power of the executive branch.
What is the role of the Judiciary in a presidential system?
Interprets laws and can check the power of the executive and legislative branches.
Role of the House of Commons in the UK?
Holds regular Q&A sessions with the Prime Minister, allowing scrutiny.
Role of the Senate in Nigeria?
Can reject the president's budget, acting as a check on executive power.
Role of the President in a semi-presidential system?
Shares executive power with the Prime Minister, often responsible for foreign policy and defense.
Role of the Prime Minister in a semi-presidential system?
Shares executive power with the President, often responsible for domestic policy.
Role of the Monarch in the UK?
Invites a member of the ruling party (or opposition) to command the government and select a PM.
What was the purpose of devolution in the UK?
To transfer powers from the central government to regional governments.