WAEC SSCE - Government - 2003

Government as an institution of the state refers to the

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Government as an institution of the state refers to the collective body that has the power to make and enforce laws, regulations, and policies within a country or region. It includes the legislature, which is responsible for making laws, the executive, which is responsible for implementing and enforcing those laws, and the judiciary, which is responsible for interpreting and adjudicating disputes under the law. Other important institutions that fall under the purview of government may include economic and political institutions, such as central banks, regulatory agencies, and political parties.

The purpose of Montesquieu's theory of separation of powers is to

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Montesquieu's theory of separation of powers aims to prevent tyranny by dividing the powers of government into three separate branches: the legislative, the executive, and the judiciary. Each branch has its own distinct powers and functions, and they are intended to provide a system of checks and balances on one another. This means that no one branch has complete control or authority over the government, and that any abuse of power by one branch can be checked and balanced by the other branches. The ultimate goal is to safeguard individual liberty and promote the rule of law.

Under the British colonial administration, the Executive Council was purely

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Under the British colonial administration, the Executive Council was purely an advisory body. The Executive Council was a group of high-ranking officials appointed by the British colonial government to advise the Governor on matters of administration in the colonies. They were responsible for giving advice on matters such as policy, appointments, and budgets. However, the ultimate decision-making power rested with the Governor, who was the representative of the British Crown in the colony.

One of the functions of local government is to

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The function of local government is to make bye-laws. Local governments are responsible for making and enforcing laws that apply specifically to their jurisdiction, such as towns, cities, or counties. Bye-laws are regulations that govern the behavior of people within a local government's jurisdiction. They cover issues like public health, safety, and morals. By making bye-laws, local governments can help to ensure that their communities remain safe, healthy, and orderly.

Many African leaders adopted the single-party system of government after independence in order to promote

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Many African leaders adopted the single-party system of government after independence to promote national unity. This is because they believed that a single-party system would help to eliminate ethnic, religious, and regional divisions that could threaten the stability of their countries. They also believed that a single-party system would allow for more effective decision-making and rapid development, as the ruling party could act more decisively and efficiently without the need for extensive political negotiations or compromises. However, this often led to a lack of political competition, which in turn stifled democratic processes and limited the protection of fundamental human rights.

An institution which seeks to redress people's grievances against abuse of administrative power is the

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An institution which seeks to redress people's grievances against abuse of administrative power is the Ombudsman. An ombudsman is an official appointed by the government or parliament to investigate complaints made by individuals against public officials or government agencies. The ombudsman is responsible for ensuring that the government and its officials act in accordance with the law and in a fair and transparent manner. The ombudsman is empowered to conduct investigations, issue recommendations, and make public reports on the findings of those investigations. The aim is to provide a means of redress for citizens who feel that they have been mistreated or have suffered a miscarriage of justice as a result of administrative action.

A written constitution should have

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A fascist regime is both

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A fascist regime is both authoritarian and totalitarian. Authoritarian means that it enforces strict obedience to authority at the expense of personal freedom, while totalitarian means that it aims to control all aspects of society and the individual's life. Fascist regimes are characterized by dictatorial power, forcible suppression of opposition, and control of industry and commerce. Therefore, they are considered to be both authoritarian and totalitarian.

The international organization formed after the Second World War to guarantee international peace and security is called the

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The international organization formed after the Second World War to guarantee international peace and security is called the United Nations Organization (UNO). The UNO was established on October 24, 1945, with the aim of promoting cooperation among nations, maintaining peace and security, and resolving conflicts through peaceful means. It is currently made up of 193 member states and operates through various bodies such as the General Assembly, Security Council, and International Court of Justice.

The highest organ of the Organization of African Unity (OAU) is the

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The highest organ of the Organization of African Unity (OAU) is the Assembly of Heads of State. The assembly is composed of all the heads of state or government of member states of the OAU. It meets once a year to discuss and make decisions on matters of common interest to the continent, such as peace and security, economic development, and regional integration. The assembly is responsible for setting the overall policy direction and priorities of the organization.

Which of the following statements about the presidential system is false?

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Which of the following agents of public opinion is the most widespread?

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The most widespread agent of public opinion is the mass media. This includes various forms of communication that reach large numbers of people, such as newspapers, television, radio, and the internet. The mass media has a significant influence on shaping public opinion by providing information, interpreting events, and offering commentary on issues. Its influence is particularly important in democratic societies, where an informed and engaged citizenry is necessary for effective governance. While the other agents of public opinion - schools, interest groups, and political parties - also play a role in shaping public opinion, the mass media's reach and influence is the most extensive.

The responsibilities of dividing a country into constituencies and accepting the nomination of candidates for elections are shouldered by the

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The responsibility of dividing a country into constituencies and accepting the nomination of candidates for elections are the key roles of an Electoral Commission. An electoral commission is an independent body that is responsible for organizing and conducting free and fair elections. In most countries, the electoral commission is given a mandate by the Constitution to ensure that elections are conducted in accordance with the law. The commission is responsible for many aspects of the election process, including voter registration, preparation of the electoral roll, nomination of candidates, and the administration of polling stations. In summary, the electoral commission is responsible for overseeing the entire electoral process and ensuring that it is free, fair, and transparent.

The policy which sought to turn Africans into Frenchmen and rule them through institutions similar to those in France was

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The policy which sought to turn Africans into Frenchmen and rule them through institutions similar to those in France was called "assimilation". This policy was introduced by the French colonial government in the late 19th century and was aimed at making the colonies an integral part of France. The policy was based on the belief that African culture was inferior to European culture, and that the best way to civilize the Africans was to make them French. The policy of assimilation was implemented through a number of measures, including the establishment of French schools, the introduction of French language, the adoption of French laws and customs, and the granting of French citizenship to a select few Africans. The policy of assimilation was later abandoned in favor of a more limited policy of association, which recognized African culture and customs, but the effects of assimilation were long-lasting and still felt in many former French colonies today.

Zionism resulted in the establishment of the state of

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Zionism is a political movement that advocates for the establishment of a Jewish state in the land of Israel. The movement began in the late 19th century and gained momentum in the early 20th century. It resulted in the establishment of the state of Israel in 1948, which is recognized as the homeland of the Jewish people. Therefore, the correct answer is Israel.

Which of the following was not a feature of assimilation policy?

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Two-party system of government enables the electorate to

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A two-party system of government enables the electorate to choose freely between alternatives. In a two-party system, two major political parties dominate the political landscape and compete for power. This gives the electorate the opportunity to choose between two main alternatives that represent different political ideologies or agendas. This creates a competitive environment in which political parties are motivated to address the concerns of the electorate and present policies that are appealing to the majority. In this way, a two-party system promotes political competition, diversity of opinion, and the possibility of change through electoral processes.

The concept of sovereignty was first introduced into political terminology in 1576 by

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The concept of sovereignty was first introduced into political terminology by Jean Bodin in 1576. Jean Bodin was a French jurist and political philosopher who is considered as one of the most important figures in the development of modern political thought. He defined sovereignty as the supreme power of the state to make and enforce laws within its own territory without interference from any external authority. His definition of sovereignty became the basis of modern political theory and the cornerstone of modern statehood.

A written constitution should have

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The independence of the Judiciary is meant to

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The independence of the judiciary is meant to safeguard the liberties of individuals. It is an essential feature of a democratic system of government. The judiciary is an independent branch of government that is free from any undue influence or control from other branches of government or external factors. This independence ensures that judges are impartial and fair in their decisions, without fear of retaliation or favoritism. This ensures that individuals have access to a fair and just legal system, which is crucial in protecting their rights and freedoms. It also promotes accountability and transparency in government, as the judiciary acts as a check on the power of the other branches.

Power is different from authority because power lacks

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Power is different from authority because power lacks legitimacy. Power can be seen as the ability to influence or control others, even without their consent or approval. Authority, on the other hand, is the right to exercise power, granted by society and accepted as legitimate. In other words, authority is the legal and moral right to exercise power over others, while power can be exercised through force, coercion or manipulation, and may not necessarily have the backing of society or the law.

If a member of the legislature is appointed a minister, he forfeits his seat in the legislature, This is a feature of the

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All of the following were a demands made by the National Congress of British West Africa from the colonial government except the

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A statutory corporation is under the supervision of

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A statutory corporation is an organization created by an Act of Parliament or law, with a separate legal existence and powers granted to it by law. These corporations are usually established to carry out specific functions on behalf of the government, and are subject to varying degrees of government control and supervision. The correct answer to the question is: a minister. Statutory corporations are usually established and overseen by government ministries or departments, and the minister responsible for the portfolio that includes the corporation is typically the one who exercises oversight and control over its activities.

A system in which two or more political parties form the government is called

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A system in which two or more political parties form the government is called a coalition. This means that these political parties come together to form a government and work together to achieve their goals. In a coalition system, no single party has enough seats in the legislature to form a government on its own, so multiple parties must work together to create a governing coalition. This is often done to achieve a more stable government or to represent a broader range of interests and perspectives.

The term ECOMOG means

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ECOMOG stands for ECOWAS Monitoring Group. It was a multinational military force established by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to intervene in conflicts in West Africa during the 1990s. The primary objective of ECOMOG was to promote peace and stability in the region by monitoring and enforcing ceasefires, disarming combatants, and protecting civilians. ECOMOG played a critical role in resolving several conflicts in the region, including the Liberian civil war and the Sierra Leone civil war.

Citizens who are legally qualified to vote form

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Citizens who are legally qualified to vote form the electorate. The electorate is a group of people who are entitled to participate in the election of their representatives to the government. In a democratic system, the electorate is considered an important part of the political process, as they have the power to choose the individuals who will represent their interests in government. The term is commonly used in reference to voters in a particular constituency or region.

One of the main functions of an election is

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One of the main functions of an election is the legitimization of the government. Elections provide citizens with the opportunity to choose their leaders through a fair and transparent process. By participating in elections, citizens give their consent to be governed by the elected officials, and the elected officials obtain a mandate to make decisions on behalf of the people. This process helps to ensure that the government is accountable to the people and operates in their best interest. Therefore, the legitimacy of the government is one of the essential functions of an election.

Franchise owes its evolution to the

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Franchise owes its evolution to the development of representative government. In early history, only a select few individuals were allowed to participate in government and make decisions. However, with the emergence of representative government, the idea of granting the right to vote to the general public gained traction. Franchise refers to the right to vote in an election, and it was gradually extended to more people over time, including women and minorities who were previously excluded. This expansion of the franchise was a result of the belief that all citizens should have a say in the decisions that affect them, and it is now considered a fundamental aspect of democratic societies.

A benefit which a country seeks to achieve in her relations with other nations is called

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The benefit that a country aims to gain in its interactions with other countries is called "national interest." National interest refers to the country's goals and ambitions in the international arena, which may include economic, political, and security interests. It is often driven by a desire to promote the country's welfare and ensure its survival in the face of global challenges. National interest is a key component of a country's foreign policy, and guides its decisions and actions in international relations.

Freedom to act as one pleases but within the law is described as

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The description given in the question refers to the concept of "liberty" or "individual freedom". It means that individuals are free to act and make choices as long as they do not break the law or infringe upon the rights of others. This concept is often seen as a fundamental aspect of democratic societies, where citizens are granted certain freedoms and rights that the government cannot take away.

Which of the following is an indirect form of election?

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An indirect form of election is one in which voters do not directly elect their representatives. Instead, they elect other individuals who then have the responsibility of selecting the representative. The Electoral college is an example of an indirect form of election, as voters do not directly elect the President and Vice President of the United States. Instead, they vote for a slate of electors who then cast their votes for the President and Vice President.

Nigeria was a federal state under the constitution of 1954 because the constitution provided for

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The constitution of 1954 made Nigeria a federal state because it provided for a division of functions between the central government and the component states. This means that certain powers were assigned to the federal government, while others were assigned to the states. This division of power ensured that both the central government and the states had a degree of autonomy, and that power was not concentrated in one location. This is a fundamental feature of a federal state. While the other options may have been features of the constitution, they do not directly explain why Nigeria was a federal state under the constitution of 1954.

Which of the following factors limits universal adult suffrage?

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Zionism resulted in the establishment of the state of

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Zionism resulted in the establishment of the state of Israel. Zionism is a political and cultural movement that advocates for the establishment of a Jewish homeland in the land of Israel. The movement gained momentum in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, and in 1948, Israel declared independence, marking the fulfillment of the Zionist dream.

Red tapism can be explained as

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Red tapism can be defined as the bureaucratic practice of adhering to formalities and following strict procedures, even if they are unnecessary or inefficient. It involves a rigid dependence on routine and rules by civil servants, often resulting in delays and inefficiencies in government processes. Red tapism can lead to frustration and corruption, as people seek shortcuts to bypass the lengthy and bureaucratic processes. It is often criticized for hindering progress and development, particularly in developing countries where there is a lack of resources and infrastructure.

Oligarchy implies rulership by

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Oligarchy implies rulership by a few powerful individuals. It is a system of government where a small group of people holds all the power and control over a country or organization. The word "oligarchy" comes from the Greek words "oligos," meaning "few," and "arkhein," meaning "to rule." In an oligarchic system, the ruling class may come from a specific social, economic, or political background, and they often use their power to maintain their privileged position and control the resources of the state.

The two main policies introduced by the French in West Africa were

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A written constitution should have

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The manifesto of a political party is a document which outlines

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The manifesto of a political party is a document that outlines the party's programme or agenda. It is a statement of the party's policies, goals, and aspirations, which they plan to implement if they win an election. It contains the party's position on various issues, such as the economy, education, healthcare, security, foreign policy, and social welfare. The manifesto is usually presented to the public during an election campaign, and it is a means for the party to communicate its plans and vision to the electorate. The manifesto is a key tool in helping voters make an informed decision when choosing which party to vote for.

The annual budget of the Organization of African Unit (OAU) is approved by the

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The Organization of African Unity (OAU) was established in 1963 with the primary aim of promoting unity and solidarity among African countries. The annual budget of the OAU is approved by the Council of Ministers. The Council of Ministers is the highest decision-making body of the OAU, consisting of ministers of foreign affairs or other designated officials from member states. The Council of Ministers meets annually to discuss and make decisions on issues of common interest to African countries, including the budget of the organization. Therefore, the correct answer is the Council of Ministers.

Authority means

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Authority refers to the legitimate right or power to give orders, make decisions, or enforce obedience. It is not an automatic right to be obeyed, but rather a right that is granted or recognized by law, tradition, or popular consent. Those who hold authority are expected to use it responsibly and in accordance with established rules and procedures, and those who are subject to authority are expected to obey its commands within the limits of law and morality. Therefore, authority is not a civic right to obey others, but a civic right to be obeyed when it is legitimate and lawful.

The law-making body in Nigeria is called the

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The law-making body in Nigeria is called the National Assembly. The National Assembly is a bicameral legislature consisting of two houses: the Senate and the House of Representatives. The Senate has 109 members while the House of Representatives has 360 members. The National Assembly is responsible for making laws, approving budgets, and overseeing the activities of the executive branch of government in Nigeria.

Authority means

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Authority means legitimate right to be obeyed. It is the power or right to give orders, make decisions, and enforce obedience. An individual or an organization having authority has the legal or rightful power to exercise control over others, and others are obligated to obey their orders or decisions. Authority can be conferred by law, by contract or by general consent of the members of a society or a group. It is an essential aspect of any organized society or institution, as it establishes the chain of command and helps maintain order and discipline.

The major objectives of a pressure groups is to

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A pressure group is an organization that seeks to influence government policies or decisions without seeking to directly control the government or contest elections. Therefore, the major objective of a pressure group is to influence policies of government by using various methods such as lobbying, protests, and campaigns. The ultimate goal of a pressure group is to bring about changes in government policies or decisions that are aligned with the interests of the group's members or supporters. Pressure groups can represent different interests such as business, labor, environmental, and social justice issues.

In a constitutional monarchy, the Head of State performs mainly

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In a constitutional monarchy, the Head of State is a monarch who performs mainly ceremonial functions. This means that the monarch does not have executive, judicial, or administrative powers, but instead represents the nation symbolically and performs various ceremonial duties. The actual governing of the country is carried out by elected officials, such as the prime minister and other members of the government. The monarch's role is largely symbolic and serves to promote a sense of unity and continuity in the country's traditions and history.

The principle of non-alignment means that a country

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The principle of non-alignment means that a country does not belong to any of the power blocs. In other words, the country does not align itself with any of the major political or military alliances or blocks, such as NATO or the Warsaw Pact during the Cold War. Non-alignment is often seen as a way for countries to maintain their independence and sovereignty in international affairs, and to pursue their own interests without being drawn into the conflicts or disputes of others.

It is most unlikely for members nations of the Economic Community of West African State (ECOWAS) to

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It is most unlikely for members nations of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to fuse into one political entity. This is because each member nation of ECOWAS has its own unique history, culture, and political system, and the sovereignty of each member nation is recognized and respected. Therefore, the aim of ECOWAS is to promote economic integration and regional cooperation among member nations while preserving their individual sovereignty. While there have been discussions about closer political integration among member nations, such as the proposed creation of a single currency, it is unlikely that ECOWAS will evolve into a single political entity, as this would require significant changes to the political structures and systems of each member nation.

The Headquarters of the United Nations Organization is located at

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The Headquarters of the United Nations Organization is located at New York. It is situated on the East side of Manhattan, in the Turtle Bay neighbourhood, on a tract of land overlooking the East River. The United Nations is an intergovernmental organization that was established in 1945 to promote international cooperation and resolve conflicts between countries. Its headquarters in New York City serve as a venue for member states to meet and discuss global issues, including peace and security, development, and human rights.

Checks and balances violate the principle of

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A written constitution should have

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The Loi cadre was passed in

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The Loi cadre was passed in 1956. The Loi cadre, which translates to "framework law," was a French law that established a framework for local government in French West Africa. It provided for the creation of territorial assemblies and councils with limited powers, with the ultimate goal of preparing French West Africa for self-government. The law was passed on August 23, 1956, and went into effect on January 1, 1957.

Why did the nationalists criticize post 1945 Constitutions in British West African Colonies? 
 

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 Explain each of the following electoral systems:

(a) Simple plurality system

(b) The repeated ballot

(c) The second ballot

(d) The alternative vote. 
 

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Outline the conditions that gave rise to the adoption of federalism in Nigeria. 
 

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(a) Outline any three fundamental human rights of a citizen.

(b) What are the limitations to these rights?
 

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What factors led to the increasing popularity of the presidential system of government in West Africa? 
 

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Describe how a Legislative Council was controlled in British West Africa before the Second World War. 
 

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How is Executive controlled in the exercise of its powers and functions? 
 

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In what ways did colonial rule contribute to the decline of the powers of the traditional rulers in West Africa? 
 

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In what ways do member States of the Organization of African Unity (OAU) co-operate with one another?
 

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Highlight the factors that contributed to the failure of the policy of Assimilation in the French West African Colonies. 
 

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(a) Describe the organizational structure of the Nigerian Youth Movement (NYM).

(b) What led to its collapse?
 

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What is government as an academic field of study? 
 

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