BGS, BSGS Bachelor of General Studies BSGS Political Science 4

Question 1

Which theory of international relations argues that states are the primary actors and that power and national interest drive state behavior?

Accepted Answer

Realism

Answer

Realism holds that international relations are fundamentally shaped by competition among self-interested states in an anarchic international system, where power is the key currency.

Question 2

What is a 'filibuster' in the context of the U.S. Senate?

Accepted Answer

A procedural tactic to delay or block a vote by extending debate

Answer

A filibuster allows senators to delay or block a vote by prolonging debate; ending it requires a cloture vote of 60 senators.

Question 3

Which amendment to the U.S. Constitution granted women the right to vote?

Accepted Answer

19th Amendment

Answer

The 19th Amendment, ratified in 1920, prohibited denying the right to vote on account of sex, enfranchising women nationwide.

Question 4

Which model of democratic representation holds that elected officials should act on their own judgment rather than simply mirroring constituent preferences?

Accepted Answer

Trustee model

Answer

The trustee model, associated with Edmund Burke, holds that representatives should use their own informed judgment to act in the best interest of constituents, not just follow public opinion.

Question 5

What is 'gerrymandering'?

Accepted Answer

Manipulating electoral district boundaries to favor a particular party

Answer

Gerrymandering is the manipulation of district boundaries to advantage a political party or group, named after Governor Elbridge Gerry whose 1812 district resembled a salamander.

BGS, BSGS Bachelor of General Studies Practice Test

BGS, BSGS Bachelor of General Studies Practice Test

BGS, BSGS Bachelor of General Studies BSGS Political Science 4