1.
Compromise is vital in the decision making process of democracy.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
In a democracy, compromise is essential to ensure that the diverse needs and opinions of the people are taken into account when making decisions. Democracy is built on the principle of majority rule, but it also recognizes the importance of protecting the rights and interests of minority groups. By compromising, different perspectives and interests can be balanced, leading to fair and inclusive decision-making. Without compromise, the decision-making process in a democracy can become polarized and biased towards the majority, neglecting the voices and concerns of minority groups. Therefore, compromise is vital in the decision-making process of democracy.
2.
The Constitution set up three branches of government.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
The Constitution of a country establishes the framework for the government and its functioning. In the case of the United States, the Constitution indeed established three branches of government: the legislative branch, the executive branch, and the judicial branch. This separation of powers ensures a system of checks and balances, preventing any one branch from becoming too powerful. The legislative branch is responsible for making laws, the executive branch enforces laws, and the judicial branch interprets laws. Therefore, the statement "The Constitution set up three branches of government" is true.
3.
The absence of a bill of rights was cause for many people to oppose the ratification of the Constitution.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
The absence of a bill of rights in the Constitution was a major concern for many people. Without a bill of rights, there were no explicit protections for individual rights and freedoms. This lack of protection raised fears that the government could potentially infringe upon these rights. As a result, many individuals opposed the ratification of the Constitution until a bill of rights was added.
4.
The Bill of Rights states the guarantees of basic freedoms for the American people.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
The Bill of Rights is a set of amendments to the United States Constitution that protect individual liberties and limit the power of the government. It includes guarantees such as freedom of speech, religion, and the right to bear arms. These rights are considered fundamental and essential to the American people, making the statement "The Bill of Rights states the guarantees of basic freedoms for the American people" true.
5.
Block grants are made/given for a very specific purpose.
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
Block grants are not made/given for a very specific purpose. Unlike categorical grants, which are allocated for specific programs or services, block grants provide funding that can be used for a wide range of purposes within a broad category. This flexibility allows recipients to determine how to best allocate the funds based on their specific needs and priorities. Therefore, the correct answer is False.
6.
The two major parties in the United States are election-oriented rather than issue-oriented.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
The statement suggests that the two major parties in the United States prioritize winning elections rather than focusing on specific policy issues. This implies that their primary goal is to gain power and secure votes, rather than advocating for specific policies or addressing the needs of the public. This can be seen in the way parties often tailor their campaigns and messaging to appeal to a broad range of voters, rather than taking strong stances on specific issues. Overall, the statement implies that the parties prioritize electoral success over issue-based governance.
7.
Absentee voting is not available to students away at college on the day of an election.
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
Absentee voting is available to students away at college on the day of an election. Absentee voting allows individuals who are unable to vote in person on election day, such as college students who are away from their registered voting location, to still participate in the election by casting their vote through mail or other means. Therefore, the statement that absentee voting is not available to students away at college on the day of an election is false.
8.
Most major interest groups have lobbyists who press Congress to act in the interests of their members.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
Interest groups, which represent specific industries, causes, or constituencies, often hire lobbyists to advocate for their interests and influence lawmakers in Congress. Lobbyists use various strategies to persuade members of Congress to support policies or legislation that align with the goals and priorities of their respective interest groups. This practice is a common and well-known aspect of the political process in the United States, making the statement true.
9.
The House of Representatives is the house in Congress that practices filibusters.
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
The House of Representatives is not the house in Congress that practices filibusters. Filibusters are a tactic used in the Senate, not the House of Representatives. In the House, there are different rules and procedures that govern debate and the passage of legislation. Therefore, the statement that the House of Representatives practices filibusters is false.
10.
The House Rules Committee is formed to iron out differences between the House and Senate versions of a bill.
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
The House Rules Committee is not formed to iron out differences between the House and Senate versions of a bill. Instead, its main role is to determine the rules and procedures for debate and amendment of bills on the House floor. It plays a crucial role in shaping the legislative process in the House of Representatives.