The Smart TOK Podcast
In this episode, I will explain that the traditional way of categorizing political views on a “left” to “right” axis is not always very meaningful. Visit this website to do the Political Compass self-test.
Today I will talk about how power in a government is divided up into different institutions.
The Democracy Index is an index compiled by the Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU). It is based on 60 indicators grouped in five different categories: I Electoral process and pluralism: coexistence of different interests, convictions, and lifestyles. Are elections for the national legislature and head of government free? II Functioning of government Is there an effective… Continue reading TS012 – What makes a country democratic?
Before Enlightenment: Rulers claimed power because of a “divine right”. Power came from God. Enlightenment: Social Contract Philosophy The question: If people are born free and with certain rights, why does the government then have authority, for example to exercise violence (police), take my property (tax), freedom (prison)? The answer: The right to rule comes… Continue reading TS011 – On the Power of the Government: What is the Social Contract?
