tele quiz unit 1
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Athabasca University, Athabasca *
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Political Science
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Apr 3, 2024
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docx
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Unit 1 Study Questions
When we speak of macro-history, what does this mean? How did Hitler and Gandhi “play” the game of macro-
history?
Meaning:
Macro-history refers to the study of large-scale historical processes, trends, and events that have had a profound impact on societies, civilizations, and the world. It involves analyzing the broader context and understanding how significant developments shape the course of human history on a global scale.
How Hitler and Gandhi "Played" Macro-History:
Hitler's Example:
Adolf Hitler, through his aggressive expansionist policies and initiation of World War II, played a destructive role in macro-history. His actions had far-reaching consequences, reshaping geopolitical structures and causing widespread suffering and devastation.
Gandhi's Example
: Gandhi, through his philosophy of nonviolent resistance and successful leadership in India's struggle for independence, played a constructive role in macro-history. His influence extended beyond India, inspiring movements for civil rights and decolonization worldwide.
What difference does it make how we define politics? How does our definition of politics influence our perception of political activities and events?
The definition of politics shapes our perspectives on governance and political actions. Viewing politics as decision-
making focuses on public service and representation, fostering civic engagement. Alternatively, seeing politics as a quest for power may lead to cynicism, lower expectations, and disengagement. For instance, defining politics as a pursuit of power may make us view a political leader's actions as driven more by self-interest than public service. Our definition influences how we interpret the motives of political actors and the role of government in society.
What is the difference between power and influence and what is the relationship between them? Do you think that liberal democracies would have any preferences in terms of power and influence? Why?
Difference:
Power: Involves control, often through force or coercion.
Influence: Shapes opinions and actions voluntarily, without necessarily using force.
Relationship:
Power can be a tool of influence, but influence operates more on voluntary acceptance.
Liberal Democracies' Preferences:
Preference: Liberal democracies often prefer influence over coercive power.
Reason: Aligns with values of individual freedoms, consent, and legitimacy through democratic processes, avoiding the undermining of democratic principles.
Do you think that authority can exist without legitimacy? If so, under what circumstances? Explain.
Circumstances:
Authority can exist without legitimacy in situations where rulers or institutions hold power through coercion, fear, or manipulation, rather than through the consent, trust, or acceptance of the governed.
Example: An authoritarian regime that maintains control through force and suppression but lacks the genuine support or approval of the population illustrates authority without legitimacy.
How did Martin Luther King, Jr. end “legalized” racism in the United States? Does the end of legalized racism mean that racism has vanished? Distinguish between “legal” and “non-legal” racism?
Martin Luther King Jr. played a crucial role in ending legalized racism in the United States during the Civil Rights Movement of the 1950s and 1960s. His leadership and advocacy contributed significantly to legislative victories, such as the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965. These landmark laws aimed to eliminate institutionalized racial segregation and discrimination. However, the cessation of legalized racism did not signify the eradication of racism itself. Legal reforms addressed overt discriminatory laws, but societal attitudes, systemic inequalities, and individual biases persisted. Non-legal racism encompasses these aspects, including racial profiling, disparities in education and employment opportunities, and subtle forms of discrimination.
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