WAEC Government Past Questions & Answers - Page 218

1,086.

The extent to which the citizens accept the institutions, official and activities of government is known as

A.

authority

B.

permission

C.

legitimacy

D.

power

Correct answer is C

In political science, legitimacy is the right and acceptance of an authority, usually a governing law or a regime.

1,087.

Political authority is the

A.

legitimate right to exercise political power

B.

ability to control political behaviour

C.

right to participate in political campaigns

D.

right to form political parties

Correct answer is A

Political authority describes any of the moral principles legitimizing differences between individuals' rights and duties by virtue of their relationship with the state. Political authority grants members of a government the right to rule over citizens using coercion if necessary, while imposing an obligation for the citizens to obey government orders.

1,088.

Power is transferred into authority through

A.

force

B.

legitimacy

C.

judiciary

D.

sovereignty

Correct answer is B

Authority is having the legitimate right to hold power (police and military commanders have the authority to command others, professors have the authority to teach, certified mechanics have the authority to repair cars. 

1,089.

A major source of political power is

A.

election

B.

force

C.

influence

D.

ombudsman

Correct answer is A

Political power rests with the citizens. In turn, citizens grant political power to their leaders through elections. This view appeals to our democratic sensibilities, but it may not be correct. After all, throughout most of human history—and in many parts of the world today—strong and stable governments ignored their citizens.

1,090.

Ability to enforce obedience is known as

A.

legitimacy

B.

power

C.

influence

D.

fame

Correct answer is B

Power is the ability to influence or outright control the behavior of people. An authority held by a group within a society that allows for the administration of public resources and implement policies for society. Power may be acquired as a means of governmental direction or in opposition to a government group.