The National Governments & The Community of Nations

The relationship between individuals without government and the relationship between nations without authoritative world government is very similar. If there were no government at all, individuals would have to fend for themselves and resolve their disputes on their own, usually through force. With nations, it is much the same. There is no authoritative world government to compel nations to do this or that. Nations do as they please and resolve their disputes on their own, often through violence. As you read this lesson, think about the importance of government and its primary functions and purposes. Also pay attention to how these issues affect the way the United States and other nations interact with each other. Understanding these relationships will make you a more informed and effective citizen of this country as well as a better citizen of the world.

1. Explain the purpose of government and analyze how government powers are acquired, used, and justified.
2. Compare different political systems with that of the United States; for example dictatorship, democracy, theocracy, monarchy, totalitarianism.
3. Analyze and evaluate conditions, actions, and motivations that contribute to conflict and cooperation within and among nations.

For more information, look up the following Web site(s):

• "Second Treatise of Civil Government" by John Locke
• Declaration of Independence