Theory Questions and Answers: Definition of Government

Theory Questions and Answers: Definition of Government

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Theory Questions and Answers: Definition of Government

Theory Questions and Answers: Definition of Government

Welcome to this comprehensive Government theory question bank on the Definition of Government. This resource provides detailed essay-type and structured questions with model answers covering the three main aspects of government: government as an institution of the state, government as an art of governing or process of administration, and government as an academic field of study. It also covers the arms of government, characteristics of government, functions of government, and the importance of studying government. These theory questions are designed for students preparing for SSCE, NECO, NABTEB, UTME, and university examinations. Each question is followed by a detailed model answer, making it ideal for revision and examination practice.

Section A: Basic Definitions of Government (Questions 1–10)

Question 1: Define government in three main aspects.

Answer:

Government can be defined in three main aspects depending on the context in which it is being used:

  1. Government as an institution of the state: This may be defined as a machinery established by the state to organise, manage the affairs of the state and administer its functions and duties. It is the instrument through which the state puts its plan into action.
  2. Government as an art of governing or process of administration: This may be defined as a body vested with the power and authority for maintaining security, peace, and stability by making and enforcing conventional and fundamental laws in a given state or society.
  3. Government as an academic field of study: This may be defined as the study of agencies, political institutions and the dynamics of the state. It is studied as a special subject in independent scholarly discipline labelled as ‘government’, ‘political science’, ‘politics’, or ‘public affairs’.

Question 2: Explain the term “government” comprehensively.

Answer:

A government is the system by which a state or country is controlled. Government also refers to the group of people with the authority to govern a country at a given time. Government exists at national, regional and local levels. It also has the authority to enforce state policy, make laws and arbitrate conflicts. Government is the machinery through which the will of the state is formulated, expressed, and realized. It is endowed with power and authority to provide the basic needs of the people which include social welfare and security.

Question 3: Why are there different definitions of government?

Answer:

Government is defined differently because it is viewed from different perspectives or contexts. Each definition describes government in its own terms depending on the context in which it is being used. The three main contexts are:

  1. Government as an institution of the state
  2. Government as an art of governing or as a process of administration
  3. Government as an academic field or area of study

Question 4: State and explain the three major arms of government.

Answer:

The three major arms of government are:

  1. The Executive: This arm of government is concerned with policy formulation and implementation. It is headed by the President or Governor and includes ministers and commissioners.
  2. The Legislature: This arm is concerned with law making which every member of the society must obey. It is made up of elected representatives.
  3. The Judiciary: This arm of government concentrates mainly on the interpretation of the law and decides how to apply the laws in specific disputes. It consists of courts and judges.

Question 5: What is the primary function of each arm of government?

Answer:

  1. Executive: Policy formulation and implementation.
  2. Legislature: Law making.
  3. Judiciary: Interpretation of the law and settlement of disputes.

Question 6: Define government as an institution of the state.

Answer:

Government as an institution of the state may be defined as a machinery established by the state to organise, manage the affairs of the state and administer its functions and duties. Government is the instrument through which the state puts its plan into action. In a way, government is an instrument whose purpose is to solve human disputes through law and to enforce those solutions or laws through superior power. Government is the means through which the will of the state is formulated, expressed, and realized. It is endowed with power and authority to provide the basic needs of the people which include social welfare and security.

Question 7: Define government as an art of governing.

Answer:

Government as an art of governing or process of administration may be defined as a body vested with the power and authority for maintaining security, peace, and stability by making and enforcing conventional and fundamental laws in a given state or society. Through the formulation and implementation of policies in the state, government as an art of governing or process of administration regulates the activities of the citizens and at the same time steers the affairs of the state. Government makes laws and enforces them on the people. It makes policies and implements them. It also interprets laws and punishes offenders.

Question 8: Define government as an academic field of study.

Answer:

Government as an academic field of study may be defined as the study of agencies, political institutions and the dynamics of the state. As an academic field of study, in most countries, government is regarded as a special subject studied in independent scholarly discipline, labelled as ‘government’, ‘political science’, ‘politics’, or ‘public affairs’; and all these deal with the same subject matter. In Nigerian Universities, the term ‘political science’ is by far the most common which is not a pure science rather a social science subject.

Question 9: Why is government important as an institution of the state?

Answer:

Government as an institution of the state is very essential in a society because it is a body that is capable of regulating the day to day activities of the citizens. Government as an institution of the state rules with the principles of the state constitution. It ensures safety of lives and properties. Offenders of the laws are punished based on the law. It also provides the basic needs of the people which include social welfare and security.

Question 10: What is the relationship between the state and government?

Answer:

The state is the political community or territory, while government is the machinery or institution established by the state to organise, manage the affairs of the state and administer its functions and duties. Government is the instrument through which the state puts its plan into action. Government is the means through which the will of the state is formulated, expressed, and realized. The state is permanent while government is temporary and can be changed periodically.

Section B: Government as an Institution of the State (Questions 11–20)

Question 11: Explain government as an institution of the state and its importance.

Answer:

Definition: Government as an institution of the state may be defined as a machinery established by the state to organise, manage the affairs of the state and administer its functions and duties.

Importance:

  1. Law making: The government makes law for the state through legislature, congress, parliament etc. The law of the nation is called constitution.
  2. Defence of the country: Government establishes and equips standing armed forces in order to defend the country from external aggression or internal problems, to sustain the territorial integrity of the state.
  3. Protection of lives and properties: It is the function of the government to protect lives and property of the citizens living in the country.
  4. Maintenance of law and order: It is also the duty of the government to maintain law, peace and order in the society.
  5. Administration of justice: The law courts interprets the law and administer justice.
  6. Provision of social services: Provisions for social services are vital functions of the institution of the state, like provision of pipe borne water, good roads, hospitals, electricity etc.
  7. Provision of job opportunities: It is the duty of the government to provide employment opportunities to its citizens.
  8. Economic functions: Government has the responsibility of promoting and regulating economic activities in order to protect the economy.
  9. Political functions: Government is involved here through the setting up of an external or independent body to conduct elections without rigging.

Question 12: Discuss the role of the three organs of government in the institution of the state.

Answer:

Government as an institution of the state has three major arms:

  1. The Executive: This arm of government is concerned with policy formulation and implementation. It ensures that policies made are carried out for the benefit of the citizens.
  2. The Legislature: This arm is concerned with law making which every member of the society must obey. It makes laws that guide the activities, beliefs and behavior of the citizens.
  3. The Judiciary: This arm of government concentrates mainly on the interpretation of the law and decides how to apply the laws in specific disputes. It settles disputes between individuals or companies.

These three organs work together to make the running of the system easy and effective.

Question 13: Why is government described as an instrument of the state?

Answer:

Government is described as an instrument of the state because:

  1. It is the instrument through which the state puts its plan into action.
  2. It is an instrument whose purpose is to solve human disputes through law and to enforce those solutions or laws through superior power.
  3. It is the means through which the will of the state is formulated, expressed, and realized.
  4. It is endowed with power and authority to provide the basic needs of the people which include social welfare and security.

Question 14: What is the structure of government? Explain.

Answer:

The structure of government implies the organization of powers and functions of government through the three organs of government. The structure of government refers to the way powers and functions are organized and distributed among the three arms of government:

  1. Executive: Formulates and implements policies.
  2. Legislature: Makes laws.
  3. Judiciary: Interprets laws and settles disputes.

The structure of government ensures that there is separation of powers and checks and balances among the three arms.

Question 15: Explain how government as an institution of the state regulates the day-to-day activities of the citizens.

Answer:

Government as an institution of the state regulates the day-to-day activities of the citizens through:

  1. Making laws that guide the activities, beliefs and behavior of the citizens.
  2. Enforcing the laws through the police and other security agencies.
  3. Interpreting the laws through the judiciary and punishing offenders.
  4. Formulating and implementing policies for the benefit of all.
  5. Providing social amenities and basic infrastructure to make life easy for the citizens.
  6. Maintaining peace, order and security in the society.

Question 16: What is the relationship between government and the constitution?

Answer:

The constitution consists of the duties of those in government, their limitations, rights and obligations which means rights and duties of the citizens are all outlined in the constitution. Government as an institution of the state rules with the principles of the state constitution. The constitution is a guideline that helps the administrative structure and organs of government in carrying out their duties effectively without interference. It guides their administrative activities by not making anyone too powerful or above the law in the system.

Question 17: Discuss the institutions that constitute the main organs of government.

Answer:

The institutions which constitute the main organs of the government of a nation are:

  1. The Legislature: This is the law-making body. It is made up of elected representatives who make laws for the state.
  2. The Executive: This is the body responsible for policy formulation and implementation. It is headed by the President or Governor.
  3. The Judiciary: This is the body responsible for the interpretation of laws and settlement of disputes. It consists of courts and judges.

Question 18: Explain why government as an institution of the state is necessary for the society.

Answer:

Government as an institution of the state is necessary for the society because:

  1. It regulates the day-to-day activities of the citizens.
  2. It ensures safety of lives and properties.
  3. It punishes offenders of the law based on the law.
  4. It provides the basic needs of the people which include social welfare and security.
  5. It maintains peace, order and stability in the society.
  6. It provides social amenities and basic infrastructure.
  7. It promotes economic growth and development.

Question 19: What is the difference between government and other political organizations?

Answer:

Government is different from other political organizations because:

  1. Government has legitimate power over citizens.
  2. Government can make and enforce laws that are binding on all citizens.
  3. Government has the authority to punish those who violate its rules.
  4. Government exercises political power on behalf of the citizens.
  5. Government has the authority to control the behaviour of citizens through formulated and implemented policies.

Question 20: Explain the term “the machinery through which the will of the state is formed.”

Answer:

Government can be defined as the machinery through which the will of the state is formed and enforced. This means that government is the instrument or tool that the state uses to:

  1. Formulate its plans and policies.
  2. Express its intentions and objectives.
  3. Realize or actualize its goals and aspirations.

The will of the state refers to the collective desires, aspirations and objectives of the people. Government is the machinery that transforms these desires into concrete actions and policies.

Section C: Government as an Art of Governing (Questions 21–30)

Question 21: Explain government as an art of governing and why it is important.

Answer:

Definition: Government as an art of governing or process of administration may be defined as a body vested with the power and authority for maintaining security, peace, and stability by making and enforcing conventional and fundamental laws in a given state or society.

Why it is important:

  1. Government provides external security through the armed forces (Army, Navy and Air Force).
  2. It uses the judiciary organ of government to promote and maintain justice through the courts.
  3. Government maintains laws and order through the police force, immigration department, customs and excise department, etc.
  4. Government provides social amenities, e.g. water, electricity, school, roads, libraries, hospitals, housing, etc.
  5. Government promotes economic development e.g. providing infrastructural facilities, enabling environment etc.
  6. Government maintains external relations with other nations.
  7. Government enacts laws to promote good governance.
  8. Government guarantees the fundamental human rights of its citizens.

Question 22: Describe the term “government as an art of governing.”

Answer:

Government as an art of governing or process of administration may be defined as a body vested with the power and authority for maintaining security, peace, and stability by making and enforcing conventional and fundamental laws in a given state or society. Through the formulation and implementation of policies in the state, government as an art of governing or process of administration regulates the activities of the citizens and at the same time steers the affairs of the state. Government makes laws and enforces them on the people. It makes policies and implements them. It also interprets laws and punishes offenders.

Question 23: Explain policy formulation and implementation.

Answer:

Policy formulation involves developing strategies for dealing with policy issues which have been placed on an agenda. Policy formulation takes both the effectiveness and the viability or acceptability of proposed actions into account. Effectiveness refers to valid, workable strategies that address the situation, while acceptability refers to those strategies which are more likely to be put into action. The government makes policies that are beneficial to the people and their implementation will bring direct bearing on the lives of the people.

Policy formulation and implementation involves the following:

  1. Rule making: This is the process of making a rule or policy that is expected to have a binding effect on the polity or the populace.
  2. Rule implementation: Having made rules, it is important that the rules are implemented for them to be effective. This means that the rules have to be put to use for results to be gained.
  3. Rule adjudication: It is the process by which a government reviews policy formulation and policy implementation and come to a decision which determines successful formulation and implementation.

Question 24: What is the process of carrying out the affairs of a country referred to as?

Answer:

The process of carrying out the affairs of a country is referred to as governance. Government is seen as an art of governing or process of administration because supreme powers of the state affairs are vested on some few individuals to maintain peace, order and security of the state. The process of carrying out the affairs of a country is referred to as governance.

Question 25: Explain the meaning of government as a process of governing.

Answer:

The term government as a process of governing also refers to implementations, making, reviewing and amending laws in the society. This administrative structure is known as the process of governing people. It involves the activities by which government policies are made and implemented. It is the process of ruling people in the society. It involves making, enforcing and interpreting laws.

Question 26: Explain the concept of “input” and “output” in the process of governing.

Answer:

In the process of governing:

  • Input: This refers to the demand made by individuals and groups for actions by the authorities. It represents the desires, needs and aspirations of the people that are presented to the government.
  • Output: This refers to the decisions of the government. It represents the actions, policies and laws that the government makes in response to the demands of the people.

Question 27: Discuss how government maintains law and order in the society.

Answer:

Government maintains law and order in the society through:

  1. Law making: The legislature makes laws that guide the behavior of citizens.
  2. Law enforcement: The police and other security agencies enforce the laws and ensure compliance.
  3. Administration of justice: The judiciary interprets the laws and punishes offenders.
  4. Provision of socio-economic services: Government provides social amenities and basic infrastructure to make life easy for the citizens.
  5. Effective communication network: Government maintains effective communication to ensure peace and order.

Question 28: Explain the principle of separation of powers in the process of administration.

Answer:

The efficiency of government in the process of administration is based on the principle of separation of power, where each organ of government has its own functions as defined by the constitution. The principle of separation of powers means that:

  1. The legislature makes laws.
  2. The executive implements laws and formulates policies.
  3. The judiciary interprets laws and settles disputes.

This separation ensures that no arm of government becomes too powerful and there is checks and balances among the three arms.

Question 29: What is the role of government in the administration of justice?

Answer:

The role of government in the administration of justice is performed by the judiciary. The judiciary:

  1. Interprets the law.
  2. Decides how to apply the laws in specific disputes.
  3. Settles disputes between individuals or companies.
  4. Punishes offenders based on the law.
  5. Ensures that justice is done in the society.
  6. Reviews policy formulation and policy implementation.

Question 30: Explain how government regulates the activities of the citizens.

Answer:

Government regulates the activities of the citizens through:

  1. Formulation and implementation of policies in the state.
  2. Making laws that guide the activities, beliefs and behavior of the citizens.
  3. Enforcing the laws through the police and other security agencies.
  4. Interpreting laws and punishing offenders through the judiciary.
  5. Providing social amenities and basic infrastructure.
  6. Maintaining peace, order and stability in the society.

Section D: Government as an Academic Field of Study (Questions 31–40)

Question 31: Explain government as an academic field of study.

Answer:

Government as an academic field of study involves:

  1. The study of political institutions of a state, its values, beliefs and doctrines about politics and the views of political thinkers about what defines or constitutes the welfare of the people in a state.
  2. Government is a social science subject taught in higher institutions and it is referred to as political science. It is also taught in schools and colleges.
  3. The study of government now involves science by the use of computers, research, statistics and analysis of data.
  4. The study of government embraces public administration, international relations, national governments, political behavior, local government, comparative government, political theory etc.
  5. The study of government has brought about different techniques and methods, realizing systematic proposition necessary for problem solving in any political or government system.
  6. Government also relates with other subjects like history, economics, philosophy, sociology, psychology, mathematics, anthropology, etc.

Question 32: Discuss the branches of government as an academic field of study.

Answer:

The following are the branches of Government as an Academic Field of study:

  1. Public Administration: Deals with human management in government establishments or public affairs. It focuses attention on the methods and techniques used by government functionaries in the management of state affairs.
  2. International Relations: This area deals with diplomacy and external relations with other countries. It covers international organizations, international law, diplomacy, international economics, and foreign policy.
  3. Political Thought/Theories: It has to do with early political thinkers e.g. Locke, Hobbes and Machiavelli. It concerns philosophical explanations which relate to the origin, form, behavior and purposes of human organisation.
  4. Political Economy: It deals with fiscal and monetary policies of a country. It studies how politics influences economics and how economics affects politics.
  5. Comparative Politics: It deals with comparative analysis of government of other countries. It focuses on the comparison of different governments in order to discover cross-cultural similarities and differences.
  6. National Politics: This subject focuses on the organization of a specific government. It teaches students about their own country under such topics as the legislature, the executive, the courts, the constitution, political parties, elections, political awareness, etc.

Question 33: Why is government regarded as an academic field of study?

Answer:

Government is regarded as an academic field of study because:

  1. It is being taught in our schools, colleges and universities.
  2. It has specialized areas in our tertiary institutions such as political science, international relations, public administration, comparative politics, political thoughts, among others.
  3. It borrows ideas from other popular well established disciplines like philosophy, history, sociology, economics and law.
  4. It borrows ideas from renowned philosophers like Plato, Aristotle, Hobbes, Rousseau, John Locke, Karl Marx, among others.
  5. Like other disciplines, government makes use of scientific methods, tools and statistics in carrying out its researches and analysis.

Question 34: Explain the relationship between government and other disciplines.

Answer:

Government relates with other subjects like history, economics, philosophy, sociology, psychology, mathematics, anthropology, etc. This relationship has enhanced the inter-disciplinary approach and in-depth study of government. Government borrows ideas from other popular well established disciplines like philosophy, history, sociology, economics and law. It also borrows ideas from renowned philosophers like Plato, Aristotle, Hobbes, Rousseau, John Locke, Karl Marx, among others.

Question 35: What is the subject matter of Government as an academic field of study?

Answer:

The subject matter of Government as an academic field of study is political power. Political power is an authority held by a group within a society that allows for the administration of public resources and implement policies for society. Power may be acquired as a means of government direction or in opposition to a government group. Government as an academic field of study refers to the study of political institutions and processes. It also educates us about different forms of government in the world.

Question 36: Discuss the importance of studying government.

Answer:

The importance of studying government include:

  1. Objective Reasoning: The study of government as a discipline enables us to reason objectively. It teaches us how to analyse critically, the political, social and economic events within and outside our immediate environment.
  2. Types of System: Citizens with sound knowledge of government would be in good positions to understand the type of system of government adopted in their country and the implications of such systems of government.
  3. To Widen People’s Knowledge: The study of government helps to widen people’s knowledge about administration and other institutions involved in governance.
  4. Development of Good Political Culture: Through the study of government, the people develop positive political culture. They will be able to acquire some values that help them contribute meaningfully in the development of the society.
  5. Decision Making: The study of government equally opens the eyes of the people for the need to take part in political decision making of a country.
  6. Intellectual Development: The study of government helps to develop the intellect but it may be said that Government, perhaps, does it better than many other subjects because political analysis requires high degree of step-by-step logical approach.
  7. Conflict Resolution: Government makes the people to know how conflict originates and are resolved.
  8. Improvement of Social Consciousness: The study of government helps the individual to understand the world he lives in.
  9. Opportunity for Leadership: Government grooms the learners to become future political leaders.
  10. Career Opportunities: The study of government provides career opportunities to people. Candidates with degrees in government or political science are in high demand in government, business, international organization, etc.
  11. Rights Knowing: Government provides the opportunity to make its citizens know their rights, duties and obligations.

Question 37: Identify five reasons for the study of government.

Answer:

The following are reasons for the study of government:

  1. It helps to know the types of different systems of government in the world and how they operate.
  2. It also enhances people’s knowledge about administration and other institutions involved in governance.
  3. It educates the people of a country on the political life of the country.
  4. It also prepares individual for leadership.
  5. It makes individuals to know how conflict originates and solutions to resolve conflict.
  6. Government provides the opportunity for individuals or citizens to know their rights, duties and obligations as citizens.
  7. The study of government helps to prevent mistakes of some past political leaders from being repeated.
  8. Government as a field of study promotes the spirit of nationalism and patriotism in the lives of the people.
  9. It also helps in opening the eyes of the people for the need to take part in political decision making.

Question 38: Discuss the need for the study of government.

Answer:

The following are the needs which necessitate the study of government:

  1. Objective Reasoning: The study of government as a discipline enables us to reason objectively. It teaches us how to analyse critically, the political, social and economic events within and outside our immediate environment.
  2. Intellectual Development: The study of government helps to develop the intellect but it may be said that Government, perhaps, does it better than many other subjects because political analysis requires high degree of step-by-step logical approach.
  3. Types of System: Citizens with sound knowledge of government would be in good positions to understand the type of system of government adopted in their country and the implications of such systems of government.
  4. To Widen People’s Knowledge: The study of government helps to widen people’s knowledge about administration and other institutions involved in governance.
  5. Development of Good Political Culture: Through the study of government, the people develop positive political culture. They will be able to acquire some values that help them contribute meaningfully in the development of the society.
  6. Decision Making: The study of government equally opens the eyes of the people for the need to take part in political decision making of a country.

Question 39: Explain the importance of studying government in schools.

Answer:

The study of government in schools is important because:

  1. Students learn about their rights.
  2. It enables citizens to understand the processes for managing the state affairs.
  3. It helps to know the types of different systems of government in the world and how they operate.
  4. It also enhances people’s knowledge about administration and other institutions involved in governance.
  5. It prepares individuals for leadership.
  6. It provides the opportunity for individuals or citizens to know their rights, duties and obligations as citizens.
  7. It promotes the spirit of nationalism and patriotism in the lives of the people.

Question 40: What is the relevance of government as an academic field of study to career development?

Answer:

The study of government provides career opportunities to people. Candidates with degrees in government or political science are in high demand in:

  1. Government establishments
  2. Business organizations
  3. International organizations
  4. Teaching and research institutions
  5. Diplomatic services
  6. Public administration
  7. Non-governmental organizations

The study of government also grooms learners to become future political leaders and prepares them for various professional roles in the society.

Section E: Characteristics and Functions of Government (Questions 41–50)

Question 41: State and explain the characteristics or attributes of government.

Answer:

The following are the attributes or characteristics of government:

  1. Political Power: This is the power that enables government to control the behaviour of citizens through formulated and implemented policies for the benefit of all.
  2. Legitimate Authority: Any legally constituted government must have legitimate authority arising from the social acceptance of the people.
  3. Law Making: It is a guide to the activities, beliefs and behavior of the citizens. The government makes laws and entrenched them into the constitution.
  4. Revenue: Government needs enough revenue from the people which is known as tax. Tax is used for social amenities and basic infrastructures.
  5. Work Force: The civil service possesses adequate personnel for policy-making and implementation, interpretation and punishment of offenders.
  6. Protection: It is also the feature of government to provide enough protection and security for the people and their properties.
  7. Periodic Change: No government is permanent especially one that is based on people’s participation (elective government) which is known as “democracy”. It has periodic tenure, it is either five (5) or four (4) years.
  8. Welfare Services: Provision of some essential services e.g. water, electricity, housing etc., should be made to improve people’s well-being.

Question 42: Discuss the main functions of government to her citizens.

Answer:

The following are the main functions of the government to her citizens:

  1. Law Making: Government is responsible for law making in a state. Laws are made to ensure that peace, order and security reigns in the society.
  2. Protection of Lives and Property: It is also the duty of the government to provide security agents that can protect the lives and properties of her citizens.
  3. Defence of the Country: The government is also responsible for defending the country against external aggression.
  4. Maintenance of Law and Order: This function is usually performed by the government agencies like the police and civil service.
  5. Provision of Social Amenities and Basic Infrastructure: Portable water, health centres, electricity, housing, hospitals, good roads, market that is provided by the government.
  6. Promotion of Economic Function: Government has the responsibility of regulating economic activities in order to protect the economy and ensure economic growth and development.
  7. Provision of Employment: It is the duty of the government to provide employment opportunities to its citizens.
  8. Formulation and Implementation of Policies: Formulation and implementation of policies are carried out to ensure the well-being of the people.
  9. Administration of Justice: The judiciary is responsible for the administration of justice in the state.
  10. External Affairs Function: Government maintains good relationship with other countries.

Question 43: Highlight any four duties of government.

Answer:

  1. To maintain law and order.
  2. To defend and protect the lives and properties of its citizens.
  3. To provide and enhance the provision of employment opportunities.
  4. To administer justice through settlement of disputes by Judiciary.
  5. To protect the fundamental Human rights.
  6. To maintain external relationship with other countries.
  7. To promote and protect national interest.

Question 44: What are the functions or obligations of Nigerian government towards citizens?

Answer:

The functions or obligations of Nigerian government towards citizens include:

  1. Maintenance of law and order.
  2. Protection of lives and property.
  3. Defence of the country against external aggression.
  4. Provision of social amenities and basic infrastructure.
  5. Promotion of economic activities for growth and development.
  6. Provision of employment opportunities.
  7. Formulation and implementation of policies for the well-being of the people.
  8. Administration of justice.
  9. Maintenance of external relations with other countries.
  10. Protection of fundamental human rights.

Question 45: The primary function of government in a state is to maintain law and order. Discuss.

Answer:

The primary function of any government is to maintain peace, law and order in the society before the government can function properly. Without law and order, no other function of government can be effectively carried out. Government maintains law and order through:

  1. Making laws through the legislature.
  2. Enforcing laws through the police and other security agencies.
  3. Interpreting laws and punishing offenders through the judiciary.
  4. Providing security agents that protect lives and properties.
  5. Establishing prisons for punishment of offenders.

Question 46: The functions of government include all the following except provision of free medical services. Discuss.

Answer:

It is the responsibility of the government to make provision for:

  1. Maintenance of peace and order.
  2. Social service of basic amenities and infrastructure in the state.
  3. Protection of citizens from malicious attack.
  4. Provision of health centres and hospitals because health is wealth.

However, the provision of free medical services is not a core function of government as it is not sustainable and may not be possible for all citizens. Government provides health facilities but may not provide all medical services free of charge.

Question 47: State performs the following functions except encouraging the struggle for power. Discuss.

Answer:

Government can never encourage the struggle for power. It encourages peace and unity in the society. The struggles for power can lead to riots, demonstration, etc. that will disturb the peace and order of the society. The functions of government include:

  1. Promoting the welfare of the citizens.
  2. Providing social services.
  3. Encouraging trade with other states.
  4. Maintaining law and order.
  5. Defending the country.

Government does not encourage the struggle for power as this would lead to instability and chaos in the society.

Question 48: How can government be made responsible and accountable to its citizens?

Answer:

Government can be made responsible and accountable to its citizens through:

  1. Periodic Change of Government: Regular elections that allow citizens to choose their leaders.
  2. Political Education: Educating citizens about their rights and the operations of government.
  3. Public Opinion: Allowing citizens to express their views on government policies and actions.
  4. Provision of Social Amenities: Providing basic infrastructure and services to the people.
  5. Rule of Law: Ensuring that everyone is equal before the law.
  6. Transparency and Accountability: Being open about government activities and finances.
  7. Independent Judiciary: Ensuring that the judiciary is free from interference.
  8. Free Press: Allowing the media to operate freely and hold government accountable.

Question 49: The functions of the state are achieved through organs of government. Discuss.

Answer:

The three organs of government are the administrative order of government:

  1. The Executive: Formulates policies and implements them.
  2. The Legislature: Makes laws.
  3. The Judiciary: Interprets the laws and settles disputes.

Without these three organs, the objectives and goals of the state will not be easily achieved. The state cannot function at all without these organs. Each organ performs specific functions as defined by the constitution, and together they ensure the smooth running of government.

Question 50: Which of the following is not an acceptable function of government? Discuss subversion.

Answer:

Subversion is not an acceptable function of the government. Subversion means the act of trying to destroy or damage an established system or government. It is a negative and destructive activity that is against the principles of good governance. The acceptable functions of government include:

  1. Maintaining law and order.
  2. Providing social amenities.
  3. Defending the country.
  4. Administering justice.
  5. Promoting economic development.
  6. Protecting fundamental human rights.

Subversion undermines the stability and security of the state and is therefore not an acceptable function of government.

Section F: Comprehensive and Past Examination Questions (Questions 51–60)

Question 51: Explain the term government.

Answer:

Government as an institution of a state is a machinery that has been designed to regulate the activities through the three organs of government:

  • The Executive: Its primary function is to formulate policies and implement them.
  • The Legislative: Are law makers.
  • The Judiciary: Interprets and also settles disputes between individuals or companies.

These three organs work together to make the running of the system easy and effective. Government can also be defined as the system by which a state or country is controlled. Government also refers to the group of people with the authority to govern a country at a given time.

Question 52: Discuss the importance of government as an institution of the state.

Answer:

Government as an institution of the state is a machinery through which the will of the state is formulated, expressed and attained or actualized. Government as an institution of the state is very essential because of its duties:

  1. Law Making: The government makes law for the state through legislature, Congress, parliament etc.
  2. Defence of the Country: Government establishes and equips standing armed forces in order to defend the country from external aggression or internal problems.
  3. Protection of Lives and Properties: It is the function of the government to protect lives and property of the citizens living in the country.
  4. Maintenance of Law and Order: It is also the duty of the government to maintain law, peace and order in the society.
  5. Administration of Justice: The law courts interprets the law and administer justice.
  6. Provision of Social Service: Provisions for social services are vital functions of the institution of the state.
  7. Provision of Job Opportunities: It is the duty of the government to provide employment opportunities to its citizens.
  8. Economic Functions: Government has the responsibility of promoting and regulating economic activities.
  9. Political Functions: Government is involved here through the setting up of an external or independent body to conduct elections.

Question 53: Explain what is meant by government as an academic field of study.

Answer:

Government as an academic field of study involves:

  1. The study of political institutions of a state, its values, beliefs and doctrines about politics and the views of political thinkers about what defines or constitutes the welfare of the people in a state.
  2. Government is a social science subject taught in higher institutions and it is referred to as political science. It is also taught in schools and colleges.
  3. The study of government now involves science by the use of computers, research, statistics and analysis of data.
  4. The study of government embraces public administration, international relations, national governments, political behavior, local government, comparative government, political theory etc.
  5. The study of government has brought about different techniques and methods, realizing systematic proposition necessary for problem solving in any political or government system.
  6. Government also relates with other subjects like history, economics, philosophy, sociology, psychology, mathematics, anthropology, etc.

Question 54: Describe the term government as an art of governing.

Answer:

Government as an art of governing or process of administration may be defined as a body vested with the power and authority for maintaining security, peace, and stability by making and enforcing conventional and fundamental laws in a given state or society. Through the formulation and implementation of policies in the state, government as an art of governing or process of administration regulates the activities of the citizens and at the same time steers the affairs of the state.

Question 55: Discuss the need for the study of government.

Answer:

The following are the needs which necessitate the study of government:

  1. Objective Reasoning: The study of government as a discipline enables us to reason objectively.
  2. Intellectual Development: The study of government helps to develop the intellect.
  3. Types of System: Citizens with sound knowledge of government would be in good positions to understand the type of system of government adopted in their country.
  4. To Widen People’s Knowledge: The study of government helps to widen people’s knowledge about administration and other institutions involved in governance.
  5. Development of Good Political Culture: Through the study of government, the people develop positive political culture.
  6. Decision Making: The study of government equally opens the eyes of the people for the need to take part in political decision making of a country.

Question 56: Explain the branches of government as an academic field of study.

Answer:

The following are the branches of Government as an Academic Field of study:

  1. Public Administration: Deals with human management in government establishments or public affairs.
  2. International Relations: This area deals with diplomacy and external relations with other countries.
  3. Political Thought/Theories: It has to do with early political thinkers e.g. Locke, Hobbes and Machiavelli.
  4. Political Economy: It deals with fiscal and monetary policies of a country.
  5. Comparative Politics: It deals with comparative analysis of government of other countries.
  6. National Politics: This subject focuses on the organization of a specific government.

Question 57: A body of people and institution that make and enforce laws for a particular society is called government. Discuss.

Answer:

Government is the group of people which legitimate authorities are conferred to govern a country or a state. The authorities make laws, implement and formulate policies, they also interpret the laws and settle disputes in the society. Government is the machinery established by the state to organise, manage the affairs of the state and administer its functions and duties. It is the instrument through which the state puts its plan into action. Government is the means through which the will of the state is formulated, expressed, and realized.

Question 58: Government as an institution of a state can be defined as a body that legislates, executes and judiciary. Explain.

Answer:

Government as an institution of the state needs to elect few individuals into political offices and empowers them to make laws, guides, controls and regulates the laws. The three organs or arms of government are very essential in this aspect of government:

  1. The Legislature: Legislates (makes laws).
  2. The Executive: Executes (implements policies and laws).
  3. The Judiciary: Judiciaries (interprets laws and settles disputes).

Government as the institution of a state, directs all the activities of the state because the functions of each organ are stipulated in the constitution.

Question 59: The process of carrying out the affairs of a country is referred to as governance. Discuss.

Answer:

Government is seen as an art of governing or process of administration because supreme powers of the state affairs are vested on some few individuals to maintain peace, order and security of the state. The process of carrying out the affairs of a country is referred to as governance. Governance involves:

  1. Making laws and enforcing them on the people.
  2. Making policies and implementing them.
  3. Interpreting laws and punishing offenders.
  4. Regulating the activities of the citizens.
  5. Steering the affairs of the state.

Question 60: Which of the following is related to government as a process of governing? Discuss implementation and adjudication of laws.

Answer:

The term government as a process of governing also refers to implementations, making, reviewing and amending laws in the society. This administrative structure is known as the process of governing people. Implementation and adjudication of laws are related to government as a process of governing because:

  1. Implementation: This involves putting laws and policies into action for results to be gained.
  2. Adjudication: This is the process by which a government reviews policy formulation and policy implementation and comes to a decision which determines successful formulation and implementation.

These processes are essential in the day-to-day administration of the affairs of the state.

Section G: Additional Practice Questions (Questions 61–70)

Question 61: Define government and explain its three main aspects.

Answer:

Government can be defined in three main aspects depending on the context in which it is being used:

  1. Government as an institution of the state: A machinery established by the state to organise, manage the affairs of the state and administer its functions and duties.
  2. Government as an art of governing or process of administration: A body vested with the power and authority for maintaining security, peace, and stability by making and enforcing conventional and fundamental laws in a given state or society.
  3. Government as an academic field of study: The study of agencies, political institutions and the dynamics of the state.

Question 62: Discuss the relationship between the three arms of government.

Answer:

The three arms of government are:

  1. The Executive: Formulates and implements policies.
  2. The Legislature: Makes laws.
  3. The Judiciary: Interprets laws and settles disputes.

The relationship between the three arms is based on the principle of separation of powers. Each arm has its own functions as defined by the constitution. This separation ensures that no arm becomes too powerful. There is also checks and balances among the three arms. For example, the executive implements laws made by the legislature, and the judiciary interprets these laws. The three arms work together to ensure the smooth running of government.

Question 63: What are the main features of government?

Answer:

The main features of government include:

  1. Political Power: The power that enables government to control the behaviour of citizens.
  2. Legitimate Authority: Authority arising from the social acceptance of the people.
  3. Law Making: Making laws that guide the activities of citizens.
  4. Revenue: Collecting taxes from the people.
  5. Work Force: Having adequate personnel for policy-making and implementation.
  6. Protection: Providing protection and security for the people.
  7. Periodic Change: Having periodic tenure in democratic systems.
  8. Welfare Services: Providing essential services to improve people’s well-being.

Question 64: Explain the functions of government in relation to law and order.

Answer:

Government maintains law and order through:

  1. Law Making: The legislature makes laws that guide the behavior of citizens.
  2. Law Enforcement: The police and other security agencies enforce the laws.
  3. Administration of Justice: The judiciary interprets the laws and punishes offenders.
  4. Provision of Security: Government provides security agents that protect lives and properties.
  5. Establishment of Prisons: Prisons are established for punishment of offenders.
  6. Effective Communication: Government maintains effective communication network to ensure peace and order.

Question 65: Discuss the importance of government in modern society.

Answer:

Government is important in modern society because:

  1. It maintains law and order.
  2. It protects lives and properties of citizens.
  3. It defends the country against external aggression.
  4. It provides social amenities and basic infrastructure.
  5. It promotes economic growth and development.
  6. It provides employment opportunities.
  7. It formulates and implements policies for the well-being of the people.
  8. It administers justice.
  9. It maintains external relations with other countries.
  10. It protects fundamental human rights.

Question 66: Explain the term “government as a machinery.”

Answer:

Government as a machinery means that government is an instrument or tool established by the state to organise, manage the affairs of the state and administer its functions and duties. It is the instrument through which the state puts its plan into action. It is the means through which the will of the state is formulated, expressed, and realized. The machinery of government consists of the three arms: the executive, the legislature, and the judiciary.

Question 67: What is the primary function of government in a state?

Answer:

The primary function of any government is to maintain peace, law and order in the society before the government can function properly. Without law and order, no other function of government can be effectively carried out. Government maintains law and order through making laws, enforcing laws, interpreting laws, punishing offenders, and providing security for the people.

Question 68: Discuss the role of government in the economy.

Answer:

Government has the responsibility of promoting and regulating economic activities in order to protect the economy. It ensures economic growth and economic development through:

  1. Careful economic planning and execution.
  2. Maintaining stable economic atmosphere for investment.
  3. Providing infrastructural facilities.
  4. Creating enabling environment for business.
  5. Regulating economic activities.
  6. Providing employment opportunities.
  7. Promoting trade with other countries.

Question 69: Explain the relationship between government and the citizens.

Answer:

The relationship between government and the citizens is based on mutual rights and obligations:

  1. Government provides protection, security, social amenities, and basic infrastructure to the citizens.
  2. Citizens pay taxes to the government.
  3. Government makes laws that guide the behavior of citizens.
  4. Citizens obey the laws made by the government.
  5. Government guarantees the fundamental human rights of citizens.
  6. Citizens participate in the political process through voting and other means.
  7. Government is accountable to the citizens.
  8. Citizens have the right to demand accountability from the government.

Question 70: Discuss the various ways by which government can be defined.

Answer:

Government can be defined in the following ways:

  1. As an institution of the state: A machinery established by the state to organise, manage the affairs of the state and administer its functions and duties.
  2. As an art of governing: A body vested with the power and authority for maintaining security, peace, and stability by making and enforcing conventional and fundamental laws.
  3. As an academic field of study: The study of agencies, political institutions and the dynamics of the state.
  4. As a group of people: The group of people with the authority to govern a country at a given time.
  5. As a system: The system by which a state or country is controlled.
  6. As a machinery: The machinery through which the will of the state is formulated, expressed, and realized.

Conclusion

This comprehensive theory question bank on the Definition of Government covers the three main aspects of government: government as an institution of the state, government as an art of governing or process of administration, and government as an academic field of study. It also covers the arms of government (executive, legislature, and judiciary), characteristics of government, functions of government, and the importance of studying government. Students preparing for SSCE, NECO, NABTEB, UTME, and university examinations will find these theory questions and model answers invaluable for revision and examination practice. Master these questions to build a strong foundation in government and excel in your examinations.

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