Chapter 17 Discussion - Discus government and politics

Sociology Homework

Chapter 17 Discussion

In this chapter we discus government and politics as a social institution ( social structure/macro level) which has set the priorities and initiatives for the nations.

1.This discussion board is about different forms of government around the world and in our country. Your book describes different forms of government in Chapter 17 on pages 380-383.

The ones defined in your book are: anarchy, monarchy, oligarchy, dictatorship, and democracy.

a.Choose one of the four forms of government (not anarchy) and find some countries today that describe themselves as one of these forms of government.

b.After finding an example, compare that form of government to the one we have in our country – the U.S. Democracy.

c.Describe the positive and negative aspects of both types of governments in your comparison.

2.Why do people accept traditional authority figures even though these types of leaders have limited means of forcing their power? Explain with examples.

3.Explain how a voter's social class can affect his or her voting practices with examples.

4.Besides voting, how can U.S. citizens influence political processes and outcomes? Which of these strategies have you personally used? Explain with examples.

5. What is one criticism of functionalist perspective in politics and government? Explain with examples.

6. Explain what is meant by the term "power elite". Consider its original intention as coined by C. Wright Mills as well as your understanding of it. Explain with examples.