Authoritarianism
A political system in which a single entity or a small group of individuals holds power, with limited political pluralism
Bicameral Legislature
A lawmaking body made up of two chambers, often representing different interests (e.g. regions, populations)
Bureaucracy
A system of managing gov. through departments run by appointed officials; essential for implementation of laws
Civil Society
Society considered as a community of citizens linked by common interests and collective activity
Corporatism
The organization of society by corporate groups, such as agricultural, labor, military, or scientific affiliations, on the basis of common interests
Democratization
The transition to a more democratic political regime
Devolution
The transfer of power from the central government to regional or local governments
Economic Liberalization
Reduction of state involvement in the economy in favor of private enterprise and market forces
Federalism
A system of government in which entities such as states or provinces share power with a national gov.
First-Past-the-Post (FPTP)
An electoral system in which the candidate with the most votes in a district wins
Globalization
The increasing interconnectedness of the world through economics, politics, and culture
Illiberal Democracy
A regime with elections but lacking key elements like rule of law, civil liberties, or fair competition
Legitimacy
The right and acceptance of an authority, usually a governing law or regime
Nation
A group of people with a shared identify, often tied to culture, language, or ethnicity
Patron-Client Systems
A system in which a powerful figure (patron) provides resources and protection to a less powerful figure (client) in exchange for support and services
Pluralism
A condition or system in which multiple groups, beliefs, or sources of authority coexist and have influence
Political Culture
The set of attitudes, beliefs, and sentiments that shape the political behavior of a society
Political Efficacy
The belief that one's actions can influence the political process
Political Socialization
The process by which individuals learn and frequently internalize a political lens framing their perceptions of how power is arranged and how the world around them is organized
Regime
The form or system of rule or management; a gov. in power
Rentier State
A country that derives much of its revenue from renting natural resources to foreign entities
Rule of Law
The principle that all people and institutions are subject to and accountable to law that is fairly applied and enforced (no one is above the law)
Sovereignty
The authority of a state to govern itself or another state
Transparency
The openness and accountability of gov. actions and decisions