Political systems, the systems of government in nations, differ from country to country. It is important to understand the nature of different political systems and develop an awareness of and appreciation for the significance of national differences. Political systems are assessed according to two dimensions. The first is the degree to which they emphasize collectivism as opposed to individualism. The second is the degree to which they are democratic or totalitarian. These dimensions are interrelated and may share certain characteristics.

Match the political systems with the countries listed below.

a. China
b. United States
c. Zimbabwe
d. Italy in the 1930s
e. Saudi Arabia
f. France

Political System:
1. Totalitarianism
2. Totalitarianism
3. Representative
4. Totalitarianism
5. Right-Wing
6. Totalitarianism
7. Democracy

China is a former communist country turned in to socialist, but still not democratic. The communist party still rules the country at will without opposition.

b. United States ⇒ Representative Democracy

The US is the oldest modern democracy that still remains in the world. Other countries have older democratic institutions, but the country was not completely democratic, e.g. Parliament existed for centuries in England, but England became a democracy in 1918. The US is considered a representative democracy.

c. Zimbabwe ⇒ Tribal Totalitarianism

Zimbabwe is ruled by a military dictator.

d. Italy in the 1930s ⇒ Right-wing Totalitarianism

Benito Mussolini ruled Italy in the 1930s. He was a fascist dictator that allied with Adolf Hitler during WWII.

e. Saudi Arabia ⇒ Theocratic Totalitarianism

Saudi Arabia is a monarchy where the royal family rules at will without any opposition.

f. France ⇒ Social Democracy

France is considered a social democracy since its last governments have followed socialist ideals through democracy.