(a) Define Government as an academic field of study. (b) Describe any three branches of Government

Answer Details

(a) Government as an academic field of study

As an academic field of study, Government is a branch of the social sciences that deals with the systematic study of the state, its institutions, the principles and processes of governing, political power and authority, and the relationship between the state and its citizens as well as between states. It examines how societies are organised and controlled, how power is acquired, distributed and exercised, and the rights and duties of citizens.

(b) Three branches of Government

1. The Legislature: This is the law-making arm of government. It makes new laws, amends or repeals existing ones, approves the budget, and checks or controls the activities of the executive.
2. The Executive: This is the arm that implements and enforces the laws made by the legislature. It formulates and carries out government policies, maintains law and order, conducts foreign affairs and administers the day-to-day business of the state.
3. The Judiciary: This is the arm that interprets the laws and settles disputes. It presides over cases, punishes offenders, protects the rights of citizens and ensures that the laws are applied justly and that the constitution is upheld.