Constitutions and Politics

The U.S. Constitution is the oldest written constitution still in use. What does this imply about the stability of

governments in the world?

What gives power to the government in each State

or nation?

A Constitution• A Constitution is a plan that

provides rules for government.

Purposes of Constitutions

• 1. Sets out ideals that the population believes in and shares.

• 2. Defines the government's powers and duties.

• 3. Provides supreme law for the country.

Constitutions may be written or unwritten. Thus, all governments have a constitution in the sense that they have some plan for organizing and operating

government.

The term Constitutional Government has a special

meaning, however.• A Constitutional Government has a

constitution which places clearly recognized limits on the powers of the government.

• This is also called a Limited Government.

China does not have a Constitutional government.

• Unlimited Governments-There are few limits and powers on the government.

Constitutions are important but incomplete guides.

• 1. No written document can spell out all the laws, customs, and ideas of a State

Constitutions are important but incomplete guides.

• 2. A constitution does not always reflect the actual practice of government in a State.

PoliticsThe terms government and politics are closely

related.

Politics

• Politics is the effort to control or influence the actions and policies of government.

Government cannot function without politics.

• A political struggle developed over the constitution itself.

What are some ways in which individuals can participate in politics?

The Importance of Politics

• Conflicts in society are managed through politics.

The Importance of Politics

• Politics provides a peaceful way for people to compete with one another

What role do constitutions and politics play in government?