SS1 First Term Government Lesson Note – Defining Government

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WEEK 1        

TOPIC: DEFINING GOVERNMENT

CONTENT:

1. Definition of Government as an institution of the state.
2. Structure of government.
3. Characteristics of government
4. Functions of government.
5. Definition and features of the state
6. Relationship between the state and government.

Sub-Topic 1: DEFINITION OF GOVERNMENT AS AN INSTITUTION OF THE STATE

The term “Government” can be defined in three major aspects without which the definition is not complete. It can be defined as 1. Government as an institution of the state. 2.     Government as a process or art of governing. 3. Government as an academic field of study or a school subject.

Government as an institution of the state can be defined as the machinery or agency through which the policies of the state are formulated and implemented and attained. These machineries which make, enforces and interprets the laws of the state are the three arms of government namely the legislature, executive and the judiciary.

Sub-Topic 2: STRUCTURE OF GOVERNMENT:

This is the division of the powers of government into different segments called the arms or organs of government which include the legislature, executive and the judiciary. These organs of government performed the following major functions.

1. THE LEGISLATURE: The legislature makes laws for the state.
2. THE EXECUTIVE: The executive execute or enforce or implement the laws made by the legislature.
3. THE JUDICIARY: The judiciary adjudicates on disputes, interprets the laws and punishes offenders.

Sub –Topic 3: CHARACTERISTICS OF GOVERNMENT:

Government as an institution of the state has the following characteristics:

1. Political power: Government has political power. This enables the government to regulate the conduct of the citizens and also implementits policies.
2. Law: Government have set of rules and regulations to ensure proper order in the society.

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