W9.1 Government

 1. Summarization
    Government is like an umbrella term for a wide variety of institutions that make up the general control over a country. There are many different types of governments, with democracies, totalitarian regimes and everything in between. A type of government always has a ideal state, however in reality it often deviates. Basic political systems are autocracy, aristocracy, democracy, republics and federalism. Democracy can be either direct or indirect. In the indirect form, the people vote for representatives, who will then act on their behalf in making governing decisions. In a government, power can be divided into several functions. A commonly known model is called the 'trias politica'. The legislature, executive and judiciary powers are divided over several institutions. This is often applied to democracy as it ensures no one has the power to undermine the system. Sometimes a government works on the principle of a multiparty system. A party or a coalition then needs a majority to govern. On the other hand, there is a one-party system or variations. Which rule solely based on their party and obstruct the possibilities of others to do so.

2. What was interesting/what did you learn?
    I have always had an interest in learning about politics. Therefore a lot of what I read was already known to me. However, learning about the definitions of the types of government, like aristocracy and federalism, interest me. Comparing them like this gives a more clear image of what they entail and what the differences are. Moreover, looking at it in direct comparison to current situations deepens the level of understanding of this subject. E.g., Russia with a balance between oligarchy and autocracy. The US with federalism and how their electoral system defies the principle definition of democracy. China is controlled through a one-party system.

3. Discussion points
    We often look and think in a way based on the system we are most used to. For many, this is a form of democracy. We are taught that this is a good system or even the best. When there is general prosperity, people won't look much further to change the system. As there is no actual need. However, I find it interesting to think whether we are not missing out by not looking further. Is democracy truly the best system? Will it change in the future? Is it perhaps just the best system for this point of society?

Jasper Toonen - 7 May 2023
Introduction to Information Sociology


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