Comparative Government Terminology

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State

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A political organization with a permanent population, defined territory, governing institutions, and sovereignty.

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Nation

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A group of people with a common identity, often based on shared culture, language, and history.

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Regime

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The rules and systems under which a government operates; can be democratic or authoritarian.

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Government

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The people currently holding political power in a state.

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Sovereignty

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The ability of a state to govern its territory free from control by other states.

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Legitimacy

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Citizens' belief that the government has the right to rule.

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Authority

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The legal right to exercise power on behalf of the society.

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Political stability

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The degree to which a government is free from turmoil and can maintain its authority.

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Devolution

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The transfer of power from the central government to subnational units.

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Federal system

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A political structure where power is divided between national and subnational governments.