[英语学习]Chapter3ThePoliticalSystemsoftheUSA.ppt

Chapter Three Chapter Three The US Constitution The Federal Government The Legislative Branch The Executive Branch The Judicial Branch Political Parties I. The US Constitution The oldest written constitution in the world (drawn up in1787) The Constitution of the US is the basic instrument of American government and the supreme law of the nation. It has been, for over 2 centuries, the basis for the evolution of governmental institutions and for political stability, economic growth and social progress in the US. I. The US Constitution The Constitution can keep pace with changes by Provisions for Amendment修宪条款 A dual process by which the Constitution could be changed. The Congress, by a 2/3 vote in each house, may initiate an amendment. Or the legislatures of 2/3 of the states may ask Congress to call a national convention to discuss and draft amendments. I. The US Constitution Provisions for Amendment In either case, amendments must have the approval of 3/4 of the states before they enter into force. The purpose of the provisions is to maintain stability and flexibility，i.e., it is to make the Constitution to endure and meanwhile to prevent possible minority from blocking the action of the majority. II. The Federal Government Principles of the U.S. Federalism Rule by law Separation of powers II. The Federal Government The Federal system It is a system of government in which power is divided by the written constitution between the federal (or central) government and the subordinate (state and local) governments. Each level of government is supreme within its sphere of authority with constitutional guarantee. (Each layer of government has separate and distinct powers laid down by constitution). Constitutional changes must be approved by both governments (federal and state). II. The Federal Government II. The Federal Government Separation of Powers: Checks and Balances (制衡原则) There are three branches in the United States government as established by the Constitution.