

List as many adjectives as you can describing
the political system of the United States.
Consider the perceptions that Americans have
of their own government. Consider the
perceptions that foreigners have of our
government.
Are the opinions of Americans towards their
government the same as the opinions of
foreigners towards our government? If so, how?
If not, why not? Explain your response in 3-4
clear, concise sentences.
 The
student will be able to explain
how the exercise of power varies
by type of government.
 The student will be able to
describe the major characteristics
of the US political system.

the ability to control the behavior of others
with or without their consent
 primary political authority in society =
the state
 the
system of
roles & norms
that governs the
distribution &
exercise of
power in society
Authority & Coercion
 whether
those
in power are
viewed as
having the
right to
control/govern
others
•yes? = authority
•no? = coercion
 traditional:
power based on longstanding custom
 rational-legal: based on formal rules
& regulations that outline the rights &
obligations of those in power
 charismatic: based on personal
characteristics of the individual
exercising the power
 power
that is
considered
illegitimate by
people being
governed
 exercised
through force
based on fear
Democratic vs. Authoritarian Systems
 democracy:
power exercised
through people
 monarchy: one person, who inherits
power, rules
› constitutional monarchy: true
power rests with elected officials
 authoritarianism:
power rests firmly with
the state
 absolute monarchy: hereditary ruler holds
absolute power
 dictatorship: power in the hands of a
single individual
 (military) junta: authoritarian system in
which a small group has seized power
from the previous government by force