Ch 15: FTCE Social Science: Political Systems
About This Chapter
FTCE Social Science: Political Systems - Chapter Summary
These lessons will help you identify, explain and gain an in-depth understanding of the various forms of government instituted by societies over the centuries and the philosophical and ideological tenets upon which they are founded. As you view these short video lessons, you will be able to apply the information you review to questions on the FTCE Social Science test. You will see material on the following topics:
- The definition for political ideology
- Types of governmental systems
- Authoritarianism and totalitarianism
- The definition for theocracy
- Conservatism and liberalism
- Similarities and differences between communism and socialism
- The origin and philosophical basis of libertarianism
Studying, whether for an exam or for personal enrichment, should never be a chore. These refreshing little video lessons ensure that it is not, by taking a charmingly clever approach that engages and holds your interest while providing you with solid information. You'll also find fully written transcripts, short lesson quizzes, and a chapter test.

1. What Is a Political Ideology?
A political ideology is a set of beliefs that forms the basis of how an individual, a group, or a social class views the world and the proper role of government. Explore the definition and importance of political ideology and examples of two different types, liberalism and socialism.

2. Forms of Government: Monarchy, Democracy, Oligarchy & More
Each type of government rises to power and rules in a unique way. Learn more about each form of government--monarchy, democracy, oligarchy, authoritarianism, and totalitarianism--how they come into power, and how they rule.

3. What is Autocracy? - Totalitarianism vs. Authoritarianism
An autocracy occurs when one person holds political power and control. Explore what happens when the power is in one person and compare aspects of totalitarianism and authoritarianism.

4. Theocracy: Definition & Examples
Theocracy is a political system in which religious codes and the laws of the state are one and the same. Discover examples of theocracies from ancient times to today, as well as how Henry VIII's England appeared to be theocratic but was not.

5. Liberalism: History, Ideology, and Influence
In the Western world, liberalism is one of the great political traditions and a dominant political ideology in the United States. Learn about the history of liberalism as well as the definition, ideology, and influence.

6. Conservatism: History, Ideology, and Influence
Traditional conservatism as a political philosophy dates back to the late 18th century but only loosely resembles the brand of conservatism practiced in the United States today. Explore the history of traditional conservatism in Europe and compare and contrast it with the modern American style of conservatism.

7. Libertarianism: History and Philosophy
Libertarianism is a political philosophy that advocates for a minimal government that protects individual liberty above all else. Explore the history of Libertarianism and its philosophy, general principles, and various types.

8. Communism vs. Socialism: Similarities & Differences
Socialism is focused on reducing social class inequalities through equal resource allocation whereas communism is focused on complete equality through no private property ownership. Explore the similarities and differences between the philosophies.

9. Fascism: History, Ideology, and Influence
Fascism is a dangerous political ideology that developed after World War I in Italy and Germany. This lesson breaks down the definition and characteristics of fascism, its history, and its negative influence on the world.
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Other Chapters
Other chapters within the FTCE Social Science 6-12 (037) Study Guide & Practice Test course
- About the FTCE Social Science Test
- FTCE Social Science: Introduction to Geography
- FTCE Social Science: Earth's Spheres & Internal Structure
- FTCE Social Science: Human Movement & Settlements
- FTCE Social Science: Tools for Geography
- FTCE Social Science: Scarcity, Choice & the Production Possibilities Curve
- FTCE Social Science: Economic Systems & Markets
- FTCE Social Science: Factors in Global Economics
- FTCE Social Science: Consumer Decisions & Credit
- FTCE Social Science: The US Constitution
- FTCE Social Science: American Government
- FTCE Social Science: The Election Process
- FTCE Social Science: State & Local Governments
- FTCE Social Science: US Foreign Policy
- FTCE Social Science: Rights & Responsibilities of US Citizens
- FTCE Social Science: Early Civilizations of World History
- FTCE Social Science: Ancient Civilizations in the Near East
- FTCE Social Science: History of Ancient Greece
- FTCE Social Science: The Rise & Fall of the Roman Empire
- FTCE Social Science: Early Indian Civilization
- FTCE Social Science: Early Chinese Civilization
- FTCE Social Science: African History
- FTCE Social Science: The History of Asia
- FTCE Social Science: Pre-European Civilizations in North America
- FTCE Social Science: The Late Middle Ages
- FTCE Social Science: The Renaissance in Europe
- FTCE Social Science: The Reformation Across Europe
- FTCE Social Science: The Enlightenment
- FTCE Social Science: The Age of Exploration
- FTCE Social Science: The Industrial Revolution
- FTCE Social Science: The Age of Revolution
- FTCE Social Science: Impact of Imperialism & Nationalism
- FTCE Social Science: World Religions
- FTCE Social Science: The Colonial Period in the Americas
- FTCE Social Science: The American Revolution
- FTCE Social Science: The Making of a New Nation
- FTCE Social Science: Westward Expansion
- FTCE Social Science: Life in Antebellum America
- FTCE Social Science: American Civil War
- FTCE Social Science: Reconstruction
- FTCE Social Science: The Progressive Era
- FTCE Social Science: Impact of Immigration Patterns in the US
- FTCE Social Science: The US in World War I
- FTCE Social Science: The Roaring 20s in America
- FTCE Social Science: The Great Depression
- FTCE Social Science: The US in World War II
- FTCE Social Science: The Cold War
- FTCE Social Science: Civil Rights Movement in America
- FTCE Social Science: A Globalized World
- FTCE Social Science: Florida's History
- FTCE Social Science: Effective Teaching of the Social Sciences
- FTCE Social Science 6-12 Flashcards