Politics in Ireland Simplified Revision Notes for Junior Cycle CSPE

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Types of Political Systems

Liberal Democracy

Liberal democracy combines democratic governance with protection of individual rights and freedoms. Key features include:

• Free and fair elections
• Protection of civil liberties
• Rule of law
• Separation of powers
• Multi-party system

Social Democracy

Social democracy seeks to combine democratic political processes with economic policies aimed at reducing inequality. Characteristics include:

• Democratic elections
• Strong welfare state
• Mixed economy (public and private sectors)
• Focus on social justice and equality

Authoritarianism

Authoritarian systems concentrate power in the hands of a single leader or small group. Features include:

• Limited political freedoms
• Restricted civil liberties
• Centralized power
• Limited opposition
• Control over media and information

Totalitarianism

Totalitarian regimes seek to control all aspects of public and private life. Key aspects:

• Complete control over economy, education, and media
• Single-party rule
• Extensive surveillance
• Suppression of individual rights
• Use of propaganda and terror

Political Participation and Representation

Political Parties

Political parties serve several important functions:

• Organize and mobilize voters
• Develop policy platforms
• Recruit and nominate candidates
• Provide organized opposition
• Link citizens to government

Interest Groups

Interest groups play a vital role in democratic societies by:

• Representing specific interests or causes
• Lobbying government officials
• Providing expertise on policy issues
• Mobilizing public opinion
• Monitoring government actions

Electoral Systems

Different electoral systems can significantly impact representation:

• First-past-the-post systems
• Proportional representation
• Mixed systems
• Impact on party systems and governance

Human Rights and Citizenship

Universal Human Rights

Human rights are fundamental rights and freedoms that belong to all people. Key principles include:

• Universality: Rights apply to all people regardless of nationality, culture, or background
• Inalienability: Rights cannot be taken away
• Indivisibility: All rights are equally important
• Interdependence: Rights are interconnected and mutually reinforcing

Categories of Rights

Human rights are often categorized as:

• Civil and Political Rights: Right to life, freedom of speech, right to vote
• Economic, Social and Cultural Rights: Right to education, healthcare, adequate standard of living
• Collective Rights: Rights of groups, including minority rights and indigenous rights

Active Citizenship

Active citizenship involves:

• Participating in democratic processes
• Understanding rights and responsibilities
• Engaging with community issues
• Respecting diversity and others' rights
• Contributing to social and political change