The structure and function of the countries above reflect the definition of an oligarchy; that is, the rule of the elite, be it few or through one individual. This elite system of rulership can take place independently or coexist with other forms of government such as democracy — including hybrid forms of democracy — theocracy, or, even communism. In terms of democracy, rhetoric in recent years suggests that the U.S. is not wholly democratic; that it is, in fact, an oligarchy. The ever-increasing role of money in campaigning champions this idea, especially in light of the Supreme Court’s ruling in Citizens United v. Federal Elections 2010Committee. With this in mind, complete the following:
Identify the government structure of the United States; that is, its organization. For example, the three branches of government and where these branches derive their power.
Identify the government structure of one of the countries above; that it, its organization. For example, its branches of government and where these branches, if any, derive their power.
Next, evaluate citizen engagement in American politics; that is, voter participation and/or citizen efforts at lobbying the government. Are their factors that advance or restrain citizen engagement?
Then, evaluate citizen engagement in one of the countries above; that is, voter participation and/or citizen efforts at lobbying the government. Are their factors that advance or restrain citizen engagement?
Finally, evaluate American politics in comparison to the country of your choice. Does America reflect an elite theory of government or does it reflect a pluralist theory of government?
Your paper should be five pages in length, excluding title and reference pages. Four scholarly sources should be used, including two from the FSCJ online library.
