Civics Full

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5 Most powerful people in the world

Pick one

- Jim Walton (Owns half of Walmart)


- James Carr Walton is an American businessman, currently an heir to the
fortune of Walmart, the world's largest retailer. As of November 2023,
Walton was the 15th-richest person in the world, with a net worth of US$73
billion according to Bloomberg Billionaires Index. He is the youngest son
of Sam Walton
- Laissez-Faire

- Vladimir Putin (President of Russia)


- Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin is a Russian politician and former intelligence
officer who has been President of Russia since 2012. Putin has held
continuous positions as president or prime minister since 1999: as prime
minister from 1999 to 2000 and from 2008 to 2012, and as president from
2000 to 2008 and since 2012.
- Authoritarian ( Dictator )

- Klaus schwab (Ceo of WEF)


- Klaus Martin Schwab is a German engineer, economist, and founder of the
World Economic Forum. He has acted as the WEF's chairman since
founding the organization in 1971.
- Authoritarian ( Dictator )

- John D. Rockefeller (Founding Father of oil company)


- John Davison Rockefeller Sr. was an American business magnate and
philanthropist. He has been widely considered the wealthiest American of
all time and the richest person in modern history. Rockefeller was born into
a large family in Upstate New York who moved several times before
eventually settling in Cleveland
- Democratic

- Henry Ford (Father of Ford vehicles)


- Henry Ford was an American industrialist and business magnate. He was
the founder of Ford Motor Company and chief developer of the assembly
line technique of mass production
- Authoritarian ( Dictator )
What does Democracy mean?

“demos” (the people) + “kratos” (rule) = rule of the people

But there is more to democracy. Read the following excerpt entitled “Democracy at
Work”.

Identify 3-5 key points about democracy.

1. Popular sovereignty:
Democracy is based on the principle of people's sovereignty, and the ultimate source of
political power is the people. In a democracy, citizens have the right to participate in the
decision-making process, either directly or through elected representatives.

2. Rule of law:
Democracy upholds the rule of law, which means that everyone, including government
officials, is bound by the law and accountable to it. This ensures equal treatment,
protects individual rights and prevents arbitrary use of power.

3. Political pluralism:
Democracy encourages political pluralism and allows for a diversity of political parties,
views and ideologies. This diversity ensures that citizens have a variety of choices and
can express their preferences through elections, thereby creating a competitive and
dynamic political environment.

4. Protection of personal rights:


One of the fundamental aspects of democracy is the protection of individual rights and
freedoms. A democratic state aims to protect citizens' rights, such as freedom of
speech, assembly, and expression, and ensure that individuals enjoy the autonomy to
participate in civil life without undue interference.
5. Regular, free and fair elections:
Democracy relies on regular, free and fair elections as a means for citizens to choose
their representatives and leaders. This electoral process provides a peaceful, structured
way to express public opinion and allows for the transfer of power based on the consent
of the governed.

What’s the Difference: Democratic vs. Authoritarian Governments

Governments are defined by how they make decisions and how they come to power. There are
two broad categories to describe types of government.

Democratic Government Authoritarian Government


o Decisions are based on the o Decisions are made with little
will of the people or no input from citizens
o Citizens choose people to o Often directly dominated by
represent them in government one person
o Tolerate opposition and o Do not tolerate opposition or
criticism criticism

Examples: Examples:
Republic Absolute monarchy
Constitutional Monarchy Dictatorship/Totalitarian regime

Complete the following work.

a. Read pages 3-5 in Canadian Civics


Complete exercise: p. 6 #1
b. Read pages 6 - 8
Examine the comparison chart on page 8.
Complete exercise: p. 9 #2, 4, 6

2.How is opposition, power, and politics connect in a democracy


a) Authoritarian decision making and
b) Democratic decision making?

The nexus of opposition, power and politics in democratic and authoritarian decision-making:
democracy:
Be opposed to:
Connection: In democracies, opposition is an integral part of the political process. Political
parties and opposition individuals provide different perspectives that contribute to healthy
debate and decision-making.
Strength:

Connections: In a democracy, power is dispersed among elected representatives and


institutions. The power of the government derives from the consent of the governed, and regular
elections provide a mechanism for the peaceful transfer of power.
politics:
Connection: Democratic politics involves public debate, negotiation and citizen participation.
The political process is transparent and decisions are often made by building consensus and
majority support.
Autocratic decision-making:

Be opposed to:
Connection: Authoritarian regimes often suppress opposition to maintain control. Dissent and
competing parties may be limited or eliminated, limiting alternative viewpoints.
strength:
Connections: Authoritarian decision-making power is concentrated in the hands of a single
leader or a small group of elites. Power may derive its legitimacy from force or historical
assertion rather than from the direct consent of the governed.
politics:
Connection: Authoritarian politics are characterized by limited political freedoms and limited
citizen participation. Decision-making may lack transparency and political processes may be
opaque.

4. Is it accurate to say that authoritarian governments never enjoy public support? Explain
4. Public support for authoritarian governments:
It would be inaccurate to categorically say that authoritarian governments never enjoy public
support. While authoritarian regimes may not gain legitimacy through free and fair elections or
open political processes, they can gain support in a variety of ways:

Propaganda: Authoritarian governments often control media and information to shape narratives
that portray the regime in a positive light.
Coercion: Fear and coercion may be used to silence dissent, creating the illusion of public
support due to a lack of public opposition.
Economic Stability: Some authoritarian governments maintain support by providing economic
stability, although often at the expense of political freedoms.
6.What is the difference between a citizen and subject

6. The difference between citizens and subjects:


citizen:

A citizen usually refers to an individual who has certain rights, privileges, and responsibilities
within a democratic or republican state.
Citizens generally have the right to vote, participate in civic activities, and enjoy legal protections
provided for in the constitution or legal framework.
Citizenship implies a reciprocal relationship between an individual and the state, whereby
citizens both contribute to and benefit from the functioning of society.
theme:

On the other hand, a historical subject is an individual under a monarch or a dictatorship.


Subjects tend to have fewer rights and freedoms than citizens. Their status is more that of being
governed rather than actively participating in governance.
The term "subject" implies a hierarchical relationship in which individuals are subordinate to a
ruler or governing body but without the same level of reciprocal rights and responsibilities found
in citizenship.

Governments And Power - How do they use it?

The decisions a government makes to maintain order need to be enforced and governments
must use power to ensure people obey their laws.

Read pages 9-10 in Canadian Civics

Please fill in the following organizer with the definitions found in the textbook.
Democratic Government Authoritarian Government
Influence Coercion

Role: The influence of a democratic Function: Coercion is often used in


government is often based on the authoritarian systems to suppress
free exchange of ideas, public dissent, control opposition, and
debate, and the ability of citizens to maintain the authority of the ruling
express their opinions. regime.
Nature: Influence is exercised Nature: Use of force, fear and
through public discussion, media intimidation is common, restricting
and democratic processes, where individual freedoms and
citizens have the right to shape suppressing opposition.
policy through voting and
participation.

Reliance on Authority

Function: Democratic governments


derive their power from the consent
of the governed. Power is
dispersed among elected
representatives and institutions.
Nature: Authority is based on the
rule of law and democratic
principles, ensuring accountability
and responsiveness to the will of
the people.

Give citizens power

Role: Empowering citizens is a


fundamental aspect of democratic
governance. Citizens actively
participate in decision-making
through voting and citizen
participation.
Nature: Power is distributed to
citizens, who play a direct role in
formulating policies and electing
representatives.
Compete Exercise on p.11: #2 and #3

2.
a) Influence - The music star is using their influence to encourage young people to read more.

b) Coercion - The mother is using coercion by forbidding her children to watch a television show.

c) Authority - The movie being rated "restricted" is an example of authority imposing restrictions.

d) Coercion - The hockey player being ejected from the game is an example of coercion to
maintain order in the sport.

e) Coercion - The police "reading the riot act" to demonstrators is a form of coercion to control
the situation.

f) Coercion - Charging a penalty on late income tax returns is a form of coercion to ensure timely
compliance with tax regulations.

3.
People's likelihood to obey a law can depend on various factors, and both conviction of its
righteousness and fear of enforcement play roles. However, intrinsic belief in the righteousness
of a law tends to foster long-term compliance and a sense of moral duty. For instance,
environmental conservation laws may gain greater adherence when people genuinely believe in
the importance of preserving ecosystems for future generations. On the other hand, laws
backed by fear of strict enforcement, like traffic regulations, may see immediate compliance due
to the threat of penalties but might not instill a lasting commitment if the underlying conviction is
lacking.

Democratic Beliefs and Values


Which of these democratic values and beliefs are most important to you?

Make a list of your top three and explain why they are the most important to you. Use the
organizer below.
We will do this in a group and you will present your ideas to the class.

Value and Belief Reason why it is important to you…


1. Reason:
Values and Beliefs: Importance: Free speech is vital because it allows individuals to
Freedom of express opinions, share ideas, and participate in public discussions.
Expression This freedom fosters a diverse and vibrant exchange of ideas and
contributes to the richness of democratic discourse.
Personal Connection: Personally, I believe that the ability to express
oneself freely is the basis for personal growth and social progress. It
promotes tolerance, understanding and the exploration of innovative
solutions to challenges.

2. Reason:
Values and Beliefs: Why it matters: The rule of law ensures that everyone, regardless of
Rule of Law their position, is bound by the law and held legally accountable. It
provides the basis for fairness, justice and the protection of individual
rights.
Human relations: A society governed by the rule of law is crucial to
creating a just and equitable environment. It establishes a framework
that safeguards individual freedoms and prevents the arbitrary use of
power.
3. Reason:
Values and Beliefs: Why it matters: Citizen participation is the essence of democracy. It
Civic Engagement enables individuals to actively participate in decision-making
processes, shaping the direction of a community or country.
Personal connection: I find value in the idea that every citizen has a
role to play in shaping social policy and direction. It fosters a sense of
responsibility and ownership, creating a government that truly
represents the will of the people.

Partial And Full Democracy

a. Examine the map on page 15 in your textbook Canadian Civics. What is the difference
between a partial and a full democracy? Can you draw any conclusions as to where we
find full democracies in the world? Why might the countries in violet and yellow not have
full democracies?

b. For a more recent version of this map, go to freedomhouse.org. What has changed?
What has stayed the same?

c. Read pages 12-15 in Canadian Civics.


Complete exercise: p. 16 #1, 3, 4
1. What are frequent elections and legal equality essential to democracy?

Features of democracy oftentimes include freedom of assembly, association,


personal property, freedom of religion and speech, citizenship, consent of the
governed, voting rights, freedom from unwarranted governmental deprivation of
the right to life and liberty, and minority rights.

2. Which element of democracy do you think is the most important? Explain why

The essential element of democracy is the principle of popular sovereignty, which means that
the people hold the ultimate power and authority in a democratic system. In a democracy, the
people are free to choose their leaders through fair and open elections, and they have the right
to participate in the decision-making process through their representatives and in various other
ways, such as through protests, public demonstrations, and other forms of civic engagement.

In addition to popular sovereignty, other vital elements of democracy include the rule of law, the
protection of individual rights and freedoms, a free and independent press, and an independent
judiciary that upholds the principles of justice and fairness. A democratic system also relies on a
free and fair election process, with transparent and accountable institutions that ensure the
integrity of the election process and prevent corruption or manipulation of the results.

Moreover, to preserve democracy, those who threaten it must be held responsible. Trump's "big
lie" is an attack on democracy because it undermines the legitimacy of elections, incites
violence, and erodes the norms of democratic governance. It is a dangerous scheme that has
already had significant negative consequences for American democracy and may continue to do
so if left unchecked.

Overall, democracy is a complex and multifaceted concept that encompasses a range of


political, social, and cultural values and practices. However, the principle of popular sovereignty,
which lies at the heart of democratic theory, is perhaps the most fundamental and essential
element of democracy.

3. Which obstacle to democracy do you think is the most serious? Explain why

Moreover, to preserve democracy, those who threaten it must be held responsible.


Trump's "big lie" is an attack on democracy because it undermines the legitimacy of
elections, incites violence, and erodes the norms of democratic governance. It is a
dangerous scheme that has already had significant negative consequences for
American democracy and may continue to do so if left unchecked.

Overall, democracy is a complex and multifaceted concept that encompasses a range of


political, social, and cultural values and practices. However, the principle of popular
sovereignty, which lies at the heart of democratic theory, is perhaps the most
fundamental and essential element of democracy.
What’s the difference between want and need?
A need is something that is needed to survive. A want is something that
an individual desires, but would be able to live without. A primary
distinguishing feature of a need is that it is necessary to sustain life.

Community Requirements
1. clean drinking water
2. adequate food supply
3. clothing
4. shelter
5. Government system
6. Security (e.g. military, police
7. law and order
8. Employment
9. technology
10. Infrastructure (e.b. Roads, bridges)
11. Clean city streets
12. Education
13. Private property
14. Freedom of speech, etc etc….
15. Voting
16. Community centers
17. Places of worship
18. Parks and monuments
19. Art and music (entertainment)
20. International recognition.
How will your wants and needs be met?

A Society is a community of people who share basic wants and needs. Some of the most
basic needs of a community are food, shelter, clothing and fresh water. Life however is more
complex and has increased our wants and needs. Besides basic needs, there are also
psychological needs. People need to feel safe and secure in their community.

It is not easy for societies to work out who will make decisions and how they will make
decisions that will affect the whole society. How will a society balance its shared needs with
what individual people or groups want? How will we decide what is fair?

True Democracy

Democracy is the method that many societies have chosen as the best way to meet diverse
needs. The aim of a democracy is the common good. In a democracy, people make
decisions that reflect the will of the majority. Members of a democratic society live in freedom.
The government is limited in its power and must respect people’s rights. True democratic
citizens not only enjoy their rights and freedoms, but they also take very seriously the
responsibilities of living democratically. A democratic citizen upholds human dignity, respects
the rights of others, works for the common good and has a sense of responsibility for other
people. Open communication and mass participation are also important responsibilities of the
democratic citizen.

Civic conflict occurs in every society because of the struggle between differing views over how
needs should be met. It is a natural result of people living together in groups. The expression
of the conflict can range from lively discussion and debate to violent action. Civic conflict
causes both positive and negative changes to occur.

Conflict Resolution

Mediation : 2 people are argueing a third person helps them make a decision

Arbitration : 2 people are arguing a third person will make the decision for them

Negotiation : 2 people are arguing they make a decision themself

Read the following scenarios. Identify and explain the type of conflict resolution that is
used.

1. The principal agrees to allow music to play in the cafeteria at lunch hour. A
conflict arises over which type of music to play. One group wants rap and the
other wants country. Representatives from each group agree to resolve their
differences by coming up with a fair compromise. ( negotiation )
2. A student loses a precious gold watch in the washroom. A second student finds
the watch, repairs it and begins wearing the watch to school. The first student
identifies the watch and demands it back. The principal summons the two to her
office, listens to both sides and decides to whom the watch belongs. (arbitration)

3. Adam and his sister Jenna are constantly fighting over the use of their gaming
system at home. Tired of listening to them argue, their mom sits down with them
and encourages them to talk to each other and come up with a solution of their
own. (mediation)

4. Dennis is upset at his son Mike because he isn’t doing his fair share of the work
around the house. At the same time, Mike is tired of his father nagging him. They
therefore decide to talk about their feelings and come up with an agreement they
are both happy with. (negotiation)

5. Raj and Aaron are neighbors. They agreed to pay an equal share for a fence built
between their properties. Aaron now refuses saying he didn’t want the fence. Raj
has tried to reason with him and has asked politely. Tired of waiting for the
money, Raj decides to take the matter to court, where a magistrate can decide the
outcome. (arbitration)

6. A fight breaks out between two grade 10 students over a rumor about one of them.
The two students refuse to speak to each other and begin to form rival cliques. A
senior student is assigned by the principal to help them resolve the
conflict.(mediation)
Read pages 96-101 in your text Civics Today. Answer the following questions

1. Why is the Charter of Rights and Freedoms such an important part of our constitution?
(see p. 97 and 99 also).
The Charter of Rights and Freedoms is a crucial part of the Canadian Constitution as it
guarantees fundamental rights and freedoms to all Canadians. Enacted in 1982, it is a
groundbreaking legal document that forms the first part of the Constitution Act, 1982. The
Charter outlines the rights and freedoms that are considered essential in a democratic society,
including fundamental rights such as freedom of expression, freedom of assembly, and the right
to a fair trial. It is important because it ensures that individuals are protected from government
actions that may infringe upon their basic rights and liberties.
- Offers citizens a way to complain of their rights are being infringed upon
- It protects pur flights by law - it is a part of the constitution it is very difficult to change it(
not like other laws only need an Act of Parliament)

2. Why does the Charter allow for “reasonable limits”?


The Charter allows for "reasonable limits" to the rights and freedoms it guarantees. Section 1 of
the Charter states that these rights and freedoms are subject to reasonable limits prescribed by
law, as can be demonstrably justified in a free and democratic society. This means that while the
Charter protects individual rights, there are circumstances where the government may impose
limits on these rights if it can be shown that such limits are reasonable and necessary for the
greater good of society. This provision aims to strike a balance between protecting individual
rights and allowing for limitations when it is justifiable in specific situations.

- To balance the rights of the individual with society needs


- Our rights and freedom are not absolute - your rights ends when your action infringes on
the rights of others

3. After reading the sections on Freedom of Religion and Freedom of Thought and Expression,
examine the details of the case on page 100 (“Face Off”).
Answer the questions at the end of the case.

4. For each scenario below, identify the right that is being described and list the possible limits
that may exist in exercising each right. Check out http://www.ohrc.on.ca/en/our_work/legal

Right Being Described Examples Possible Limits of Right


Freedom of Religion ● Parents of a baby refuse to allow The right to freedom of
doctors to give the child a blood religion may be limited
transfusion as it goes against when it comes into conflict
their religious beliefs with the well-being and
health of the child. In
cases where medical
intervention is necessary
to save a child's life, the
state may intervene to
protect the child's best
interests.

- the kid could die


Children individual right to
live/get medical attention
Freedom of Assembly and ● A group of protestors outside an The right to freedom of
Freedom of Expression abortion clinic try to prevent assembly and expression
people from entering the may be subject to
building. limitations when it
interferes with the rights
and safety of others. In
this case, limits may be
imposed to ensure access
to healthcare facilities and
to prevent the harassment
or obstruction of
individuals seeking
medical services.
-Not peaceful, trying to
physically force others not
to inter
Right to Equal Treatment ● A printer refuses to provide The right to equal
and Freedom from services to a gay man because treatment and freedom
Discrimination due to his religion, recognizing from discrimination may be
the LGBTQ+ community is limited when it conflicts
contrary to his religious beliefs. with other individuals'
rights. In this case,
anti-discrimination laws
may place limits on the
printer's actions to ensure
equal access to goods and
services, regardless of
sexual orientation.
- Gender equality/
freedom
The Rights to Be ( AS A
PART OF COMMUNITY)

Right to Equal Treatment ● A landlord refuses to rent to a The right to equal


and Freedom from woman on social assistance treatment and freedom
Discrimination because he believes she may from discrimination may be
not be able to fulfill her rental limited when it results in
obligations. unfair and unjust treatment
of individuals based on
factors such as social
assistance status.
Anti-discrimination laws
may impose limits on
landlords' actions to
ensure equal access to
housing for all individuals.

- Landlord could
lose his property., cause
the income is not coming
in from the rental
Kinda the same right being
discussed.
Legal rights?
Responsibilities- not set out by law, but we agree to fulfill
Rights are protected by the law of the land- constitution open interpretation by the Supreme
court of Canada

Protester
Understanding Democracy: Leadership Styles

Laissez-Faire Leader
You do not take part in any discussions or decision-making. It’s not that you don’t care, but you
think the committee members should be responsible for their own decisions.
When asked questions, you will use the phrases, “I don’t know” or “ It’s up to you. Don’t get
involved. Let the OTHERS do it all.
Check out this website for further information.
https://www.indeed.com/hire/c/info/laissez-faire-leadership

Democratic Leader
You are to encourage the members of your group to discuss matters in an environment that
stresses sharing ideas and respecting opinions. Try to involve all of the committee members in
the discussions. Votes should be taken when consensus (everyone agrees) can’t be reached
through discussion.

Authoritarian Leader
You are the BOSS in your group and while the other group members may be asked to discuss
their ideas or offer their opinions, they are expected to do whatever you decide. Other group
members may react strongly to your dictatorial style, but you are to hold firm.

Brainstorm with your group and fill in the organizer below.


Complete your Personal Conclusions on your own.

Leadership Authoritarian Democratic Laissez-Faire

Style Characterized by Contributing multiple Staying out of the


centralized control people to participate decision Making
from a single point of in the decision And letting everybody
authority. making process. else make the
decisions

Strengths -quick-decision -encourages -It encourages


(Effective) making creativity personal growth
-It encourages
-provides clear -leadership and a innovation
direction sense of team -It allows for faster
involvement decision-making
Weaknesses -Takes too long to -Absence of oversight
(Ineffective) -stops creativity and agree to something -Limited control over
teamwork -To many people quality
turns ideas into -Risk of inconsistent
-one point of view arguments performance
and opinion

-can lead to
demotivation

Personal In my opinion, this In my opinion this In my opinion this


Conclusions form of leadership is type of leadership is type is the worst type
not effective and one of the best types of leadership to use
efficient to create a for leadership. Since, because the
good and better it gains multiple weaknesses are
society as it only people's ideas as it more than the
results from one point makes sure to be fair. Strengths.
of view which could
be a corrupt one very
easily.

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