Forms of Government (VSAQs)
Political Science-1 | 12. Forms of Governments – VSAQs:
Welcome to VSAQs in Chapter 12: Forms of Governments. This page features the most important FAQs for Very Short Answer Questions. Answers are provided in simple English and follow the exam format. This approach helps you focus on key concepts and aim for top marks in your final exams.
VSAQ-1: Aristotle’s Classification of Government
Aristotle, an ancient Greek philosopher, offered a unique way of understanding different types of governments. He classified them based on who holds power and whether they rule for the common good or for their own interests.
- Monarchy: This is when a single person, like a king or queen, rules the government. According to Aristotle, a monarchy can be good if the ruler is virtuous and works for the well-being of the people. However, it can turn corrupt if the ruler becomes self-centered and rules for personal gain.
- Aristocracy: In an aristocracy, a small group of the most qualified and virtuous citizens governs. Aristotle saw this as a positive form of government if the leaders are genuinely working for the common good. But like a monarchy, it can become corrupt if the leaders start making decisions to benefit only themselves.
- Polity (or Constitutional Government): Aristotle believed that a polity, which combines elements of democracy and oligarchy, is the best form of government. In a polity, power is shared by a broad section of society, usually the middle class. This form of government balances the interests of both the rich and the poor and aims to promote the common good.
VSAQ-2: Federal Government
A federal government is a system where power is shared between a central authority and smaller regional governments, like states or provinces. Think of it as a big umbrella with several smaller umbrellas underneath. The central government takes care of national issues, such as defense and foreign policy, while the regional governments handle local matters, like education and transportation. This system allows for both unity and diversity within a country, as different regions can address their unique needs while still being part of a larger, unified nation.
VSAQ-3: Presidential Form of Government
In a presidential form of government, the executive branch, led by the president, operates separately from the legislative branch. This system creates a clear separation of powers, where the president is elected independently of the legislature and serves a fixed term. The president acts as both the head of state and the head of government, responsible for enforcing laws and managing the day-to-day operations of the government. The legislature, on the other hand, makes laws. The president has the power to veto laws passed by the legislature, but this veto can be overridden if the legislature votes to do so, ensuring a balance of power between the branches.
VSAQ-4: Collective Responsibility
Collective responsibility is a key principle in parliamentary systems of government. It means that all the ministers in the government share responsibility for the decisions and policies made by the government. If a decision is made by the government, every minister must publicly support it, even if they privately disagree. If a minister cannot support a decision, they are expected to resign. This principle ensures that the government presents a united front and that the entire cabinet is held accountable for its actions by the parliament. It prevents ministers from distancing themselves from unpopular decisions and promotes teamwork within the government.
VSAQ-5: Prime Minister
In a parliamentary government, the Prime Minister is the most important leader and holds significant executive power. The Prime Minister is responsible for running the government, making key policy decisions, and representing the country both at home and abroad. They have the authority to appoint members of the cabinet, reorganize the government, and even dissolve it if necessary. The Prime Minister’s role is crucial in ensuring that the government functions smoothly and effectively, carrying out its agenda and responding to the needs of the country.