At the urging of feminists and conservative Christians, some cities have banned pornography on the grounds it dehumanizes and endangers women. How have the courts dealt with these bans?

At the urging of feminists and conservative Christians, some cities have banned pornography on the grounds it dehumanizes and endangers women. How have the courts dealt with these bans?

A) They have upheld them based on the Equal Protection Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment.
B) They have refused to review them.
C) They have struck them down as violations of the First Amendment.
D) They have upheld them based on the First Amendment.
E) The courts have been erratic, allowing some ordinances and revoking others.






Answer: C

The Communications Decency Act banning obscene material and criminalizing the transmission of indecent speech or images to anyone under the age of 18 was

The Communications Decency Act banning obscene material and criminalizing the transmission of indecent speech or images to anyone under the age of 18 was

A) affirmed by the Court.
B) opposed by Christian groups.
C) overturned by the Supreme Court.
D) the first regulation of obscenity affirmed by the Court.
E) none of the above.






Answer: C

Miller v. California (1973)

Miller v. California (1973)

A) achieved a workable definition of legal obscenity.
B) abolished pornographic material only when it involved children.
C) resulted in uniform state laws regulating obscenity.
D) stated that local communities should have more responsibility over deciding what constitutes obscenity.
E) prohibited hanging as a cruel and unusual punishment.








Answer: D

In Miller v. California (1971), the Court ruled that decisions regarding whether or not material was obscene should generally be made by

In Miller v. California (1971), the Court ruled that decisions regarding whether or not material was obscene should generally be made by

A) Congress, through statutory law.
B) lower federal judges as they see fit, but in conformance with the First Amendment.
C) local communities, with some guidelines provided by the Court itself about how to make such judgments.
D) the Supreme Court itself, on a case-by-case basis.
E) individual persons in their own private lives.


Answer: C

In ________, the Court clarified its doctrine of what was obscene, including such gauges as whether material appealed to merely a prurient interest in sex, and whether it lacked serious artistic, literary, political or scientific merit.

In ________, the Court clarified its doctrine of what was obscene, including such gauges as whether material appealed to merely a prurient interest in sex, and whether it lacked serious artistic, literary, political or scientific merit.

A) Osborne v. Ohio
B) Engel v. Vitale
C) Miller v. California
D) Near v. Minnesota
E) Federal Communications Commission v. Stern







Answer: C

In Zurcher v. Stanford Daily, the Supreme Court ruled that

In Zurcher v. Stanford Daily, the Supreme Court ruled that

A) the Stanford Daily had complete control over its photograph files.
B) the Stanford Daily must cease publication of military strategy papers.
C) the Stanford Daily must open its files for use as police evidence.
D) the Stanford Daily must disclose the location of its reporters.
E) the Stanford Daily is controlled by the University president, not state laws.







Answer: D

Obscenity is

Obscenity is

A) equated with nudity by the Supreme Court.
B) clearly defined as it pertains to both freedom of the press and freedom of speech.
C) prohibited in the First Amendment.
D) a matter of federal standards rather than state or local standards.
E) not protected under the Constitution.







Answer: E

The principle that "obscenity is not within the area of constitutionally protected speech or press" was established in

The principle that "obscenity is not within the area of constitutionally protected speech or press" was established in

A) Roth v. United States.
B) Osborne v. Ohio.
C) Miller v. California.
D) United States v. Snepp.
E) Ohio v. Pussycat Theater.






Answer: A

In Roth v. United States, the Supreme Court held that

In Roth v. United States, the Supreme Court held that

A) outdoor drive-ins could not be barred from showing a film which included nudity.
B) the possession of child pornography was not covered by any right to free speech or press, and could be made a crime.
C) the government cannot prohibit discrimination against women priests by churches because it would violate the free exercise of religion.
D) obscenity is not within the area of constitutionally protected free speech.
E) the film Carnal Knowledge, which had critical acclaim but a sexual theme and explicit scenes, could not be banned.

Answer: D

The Supreme Court ruled in Branzburg v. Hayes (1972) that in the absence of shield laws,

The Supreme Court ruled in Branzburg v. Hayes (1972) that in the absence of shield laws,

A) the right of a free trial preempts the reporter's right to protect sources.
B) that newspaper files are protected by the First Amendment.
C) that reporters have more rights than other citizens.
D) judges can bar cameras from the courtroom.
E) none of the above.







Answer: A

A shield law

A shield law

A) gives reporters the right to withhold information from the courts.
B) gives judges the right to issue a gag order.
C) protects certain religious practices not covered by Supreme Court rulings.
D) prevents the courts from closing criminal trials to the press.
E) prevents reporters from disclosing secret government information.







Answer: A

Constitutional protections of free speech are ________ on private property .

Constitutional protections of free speech are ________ on private property .

A) completely invalidated
B) fully protected
C) diminished
D) untested
E) unchanged.

Answer: C

In Schenck v. United States (1919), Justice Holmes said that speech can be restricted when it

In Schenck v. United States (1919), Justice Holmes said that speech can be restricted when it

A) is uttered by government officials in an effort to establish a religion.
B) provokes "a clear and present danger. to people."
C) advocates the violent overthrow of the United States.
D) is spoken rather than non-verbal or symbolic.
E) is expressed on private property.






Answer: B

In the case of New York Times v. United States in 1971, the Supreme Court ruled

In the case of New York Times v. United States in 1971, the Supreme Court ruled

A) against permitting racy advertisements for massage parlors, saunas, and escort services which could be deemed obscene.
B) against prior restraint in the case of the Pentagon Papers, which allowed them to be published.
C) that the government cannot file libel suits against newspapers, because, it would result in government censorship.
D) in favor of permitting racy advertisements for massage parlors, saunas, and escort services as freedom of speech.
E) in favor of prior restraint in order to prevent publication of the Pentagon Papers.

Answer: B

In the case of Dennis v. United States, the Supreme Court

In the case of Dennis v. United States, the Supreme Court

A) upheld the federal law banning the Nazi party in the United States and prohibiting its activities.
B) upheld the convictions of Communist party officials who had been sent to prison because of their beliefs.
C) overturned the convictions of Communist party officials who had been sent to prison because of their beliefs.
D) ruled that burning a draft card was not covered under free speech.
E) overturned the federal law against burning or desecrating the American flag, arguing that it violated free speech.

Answer: B

Prior restraint is most often considered acceptable on the grounds of

Prior restraint is most often considered acceptable on the grounds of

A) libel.
B) obscenity.
C) national security.
D) cruel and unusual punishment.
E) religious freedom.






Answer: C

The case of Near v. Minnesota (1931)

The case of Near v. Minnesota (1931)

A) ruled that newspapers could not publish secret information that threatens national security.
B) ruled that states cannot prohibit animal sacrifice.
C) held that government had illegally issued a prior restraint.
D) identified an exception to the Constitutional guarantees barring government censorship of the press.
E) upheld Minnesota's right to close down a newspaper making slanderous remarks.







Answer: C

Time and time again, the Supreme Court has protected freedom of the press by

Time and time again, the Supreme Court has protected freedom of the press by

A) ruling in favor of strict libel laws.
B) striking down prior restraint.
C) refusing to allow the subpoena of reporters.
D) relaxing due process procedures.
E) all of the above.








Answer: B

Which of the following elements of the Bill of Rights was extended to the states by the Supreme Court case of Near v. Minnesota?

Which of the following elements of the Bill of Rights was extended to the states by the Supreme Court case of Near v. Minnesota?

A) freedom of speech
B) freedom of the press
C) right to counsel in felony cases
D) grand jury requirement
E) right to privacy







Answer: B

The Pentagon Papers dealt with

The Pentagon Papers dealt with

A) a documented history of United States involvement in the Vietnam War which the government wanted kept secret.
B) a documented history of United States involvement in the Korean War which the government wanted kept secret.
C) prisoners of war from World War II.
D) secret agreements between the United States and the Soviet Union.
E) all of the above







Answer: A

The Supreme Court has permitted prior restraint of which of the following?

The Supreme Court has permitted prior restraint of which of the following?

A) high school newspapers
B) compact discs by 2 Live Crew
C) the Pentagon Papers
D) a newspaper that called local officials "Jewish gangsters"
E) It has permitted prior restraint of all of these.






Answer: A

In its Near v. Minnesota decision of 1931, the Supreme Court ruled that

In its Near v. Minnesota decision of 1931, the Supreme Court ruled that

A) the state government could not use prior restraint to shut down an outspoken newspaper.
B) a school newspaper was not a public forum and could be regulated "in any reasonable manner" by school officials.
C) states had the power to use prior restraint broadly, but the national government did not.
D) a CIA agent could not publish a personal memoir without clearing it through the agency.
E) states were prohibited from publishing newspapers because that amounted to government censorship of the press and constituted the establishment of a government monopoly.

Answer: A

The extent of an individual's or group's freedom from prior restraint depends on

The extent of an individual's or group's freedom from prior restraint depends on

A) whether the nation is at war.
B) nothing- it is absolute.
C) the moods of the Supreme Court justices.
D) who the individual or group is.
E) the Constitution.








Answer: D

In what case did the Supreme Court rule that a newspaper, no matter how outrageous its opinions, must be allowed to publish without prior restraint?

In what case did the Supreme Court rule that a newspaper, no matter how outrageous its opinions, must be allowed to publish without prior restraint?

A) Wisconsin v. Yoder
B) Miranda v. Arizona
C) Near v. Minnesota
D) New York Times v. Sullivan
E) Mapp v. Ohio.






Answer: C

_____ refers to a government's censorship of material before it is published.

_____ refers to a government's censorship of material before it is published.

A) The exclusionary rule
B) Probable cause
C) Equal protection
D) Prior restraint
E) Just cause

Answer: D

Which of the following statements about freedom of expression is FALSE?

Which of the following statements about freedom of expression is FALSE?

A) Universities cannot prohibit racial, religious, or sexual insults.
B) Obscenity and libel are not protected by the First Amendment.
C) Picketing is considered symbolic speech and receives First Amendment protection.
D) Government can limit expression more easily than it can limit action.
E) Holding a political rally to attack an opposition candidate's stand on important issues gets First Amendment protection.






Answer: D

Freedom of expression

Freedom of expression

A) has sometimes been limited when it conflicts with other rights and values.
B) is protected by the Fourth and Fifth Amendments.
C) is an absolute right protected by the First Amendment.
D) includes freedom of speech and press, but not actions.
E) would not protect a political rally to attack an opposition candidate's stand on issues.








Answer: A

The Supreme Court ruled that freedom of religious practice was more important than the right of the government to interfere in deciding in favor of

The Supreme Court ruled that freedom of religious practice was more important than the right of the government to interfere in deciding in favor of

A) a Mormon who justified polygamy on religious grounds.
B) the right of Amish parents in Wisconsin to take their children out of public school after the eighth grade.
C) the right of an orthodox Jewish Air Force captain to wear his yarmulke despite the strict military dress code.
D) the Louisiana law requiring schools that taught Darwinian theory to teach the Bible's version of creation as well.
E) Christian Scientists' religious opposition to scientific medical treatment for themselves or their children.

Answer: B

In regard to the free exercise clause, the Supreme Court has made each of the following rulings EXCEPT

In regard to the free exercise clause, the Supreme Court has made each of the following rulings EXCEPT

A) polygamy may be justified for Mormons on religious grounds.
B) the Air Force can enforce its dress code even against religiously based dress choices.
C) Amish parents may take their children out of school after the eighth grade.
D) people could become conscientious objectors to war on religious grounds.
E) public schools cannot require Jehovah's Witnesses to attend flag saluting ceremonies







Answer: A

In free exercise cases, the Supreme Court

In free exercise cases, the Supreme Court

A) allows the government to interfere with religious practices as long as it is not specifically aimed at religion.
B) permits the government to interfere with religious practices.
C) prohibits prayer in public schools but permits government aid to religious schools.
D) prohibits the government from interfering with religious practices.
E) never allows the government to interfere with religious practices.





Answer: A

During the 1980s, the Supreme Court ________ the displaying of Christmas nativity scenes and Hanukkah menorahs on public property.

During the 1980s, the Supreme Court ________ the displaying of Christmas nativity scenes and Hanukkah menorahs on public property.

A) refused to hear cases challenging
B) first permitted and then prohibited
C) upheld the constitutionality of
D) declared unconstitutional
E) encouraged






Answer: C

In 2005, the Supreme Court found that two Kentucky counties violated the establishment clause of the First Amendment by

In 2005, the Supreme Court found that two Kentucky counties violated the establishment clause of the First Amendment by

A) establishing English as the "official first language of the State of Kentucky."
B) by posting the Ten Commandments as a way of promoting religion.
C) banning "intelligent design" from the curriculum
D) providing an "inefficient" system of public education.
E) requiring students to say the Pledge of Allegiance.





Answer: C

Which of the following is NOT a free exercise issue?

Which of the following is NOT a free exercise issue?

A) animal sacrifice
B) religious use of peyote
C) teacher led prayers in public schools
D) whether Amish children must go to school
E) none of the above






Answer: C

Government aid to religious schools has been a major issue

Government aid to religious schools has been a major issue

A) since the Civil War.
B) since the colonial era.
C) since the mid 1960s.
D) since ratification of the Bill of Rights.
E) since the growth of the fundamentalist movement in the 1980s.








Answer: C

The Supreme Court has ruled that government aid to church-related schools

The Supreme Court has ruled that government aid to church-related schools

A) is acceptable for things such as field trips and teacher salaries, but not for textbooks or transportation to school.
B) is permitted when the aid is for a non-religious purpose.
C) is acceptable if the school is affiliated with a major religion but not for small, fringe religious sects.
D) violates the Establishment Clause.
E) does not constitute an establishment of religion.








Answer: B

In Lemon v. Kurtzman (1971), the Supreme Court ruled that

In Lemon v. Kurtzman (1971), the Supreme Court ruled that

A) states can prohibit pornography despite the freedom of the press.
B) aid to church-related schools must have a secular legislative purpose.
C) religious freedom takes precedence over compulsory education laws.
D) an official prayer at a public-school graduation violated the constitutional separation of church and state.
E) voluntary prayer in public schools is unconstitutional.







Answer: B

Which of the following statements about religion and politics is FALSE?

Which of the following statements about religion and politics is FALSE?

A) Many school districts have simply ignored the Supreme Court's ban on school prayer and hold prayers in their classrooms.
B) The religious diversity in America has made it difficult to establish one state religion such as Britain has.
C) The Supreme Court has never permitted the claim of religious freedom to permit every sort of behavior.
D) Efforts are underway to amend the Constitution to permit school prayer.
E) In recent years, religious issues and controversies have become less visible in political debate.






Answer: E

The Supreme Court has interpreted the establishment clause of the First Amendment as

The Supreme Court has interpreted the establishment clause of the First Amendment as

A) grounds for denying federal aid to children attending parochial schools.
B) merely preventing the establishment of a national church.
C) prohibiting school-organized Bible-reading and prayer in public schools.
D) allowing nondenominational school prayer.
E) all of the above







Answer: C

In the Engel v. Vitale case of 1962, the Supreme Court ruled that ________ was (were) unconstitutional.

In the Engel v. Vitale case of 1962, the Supreme Court ruled that ________ was (were) unconstitutional.

A) prayers done as classroom exercises in public schools
B) the Connecticut statute barring the distribution of birth control information
C) segregation
D) prior restraint
E) police search or seizure without an authorized warrant





Answer: A

In the Lemon v. Kurtzman decision of 1971, the Supreme Court ruled that

In the Lemon v. Kurtzman decision of 1971, the Supreme Court ruled that

A) any aid of any sort to church-related schools is not constitutional, because it violates church-state separation.
B) aid to church-related schools is fully constitutional, and can be used for any purposes needed by the schools.
C) spoken prayers in public schools were unconstitutional.
D) aid to church-related schools must be for secular purposes only, and cannot be used to advance or inhibit religion.
E) devotional Bible-reading in public schools was unconstitutional.






Answer: D

In dealing with First Amendment cases involving religion, the Supreme Court has ruled that

In dealing with First Amendment cases involving religion, the Supreme Court has ruled that

A) the Constitution does not protect anti-religious beliefs and practices.
B) such questions should be resolved at the state and local levels of government.
C) while all religious beliefs are constitutionally protected, all religious practices are not.
D) government must not interfere with any expression of religious faith.
E) none of the above.







Answer: C

The abridgment of citizens' freedom to worship, or not to worship, as they please is prohibited by the

The abridgment of citizens' freedom to worship, or not to worship, as they please is prohibited by the

A) due process clause.
B) establishment clause.
C) free exercise clause.
D) freedom of religion.
E) Second Amendment.

Answer: C

In Lemon v. Kurtzman, the Supreme Court established that aid to church-related schools must do all of the following EXCEPT

In Lemon v. Kurtzman, the Supreme Court established that aid to church-related schools must do all of the following EXCEPT

A) have a secular purpose.
B) inhibit religion.
C) not advance religion.
D) not create excessive government entanglement with religion.
E) treat all religions equally.






Answer: B

Aid to parochial schools was first passed in the 1960s at the request of

Aid to parochial schools was first passed in the 1960s at the request of

A) Richard M. Nixon.
B) Jimmy Carter.
C) John F. Kennedy.
D) Lyndon Johnson.
E) Barry Goldwater.







Answer: D

The significance of Gitlow v. New York (1925) was that

The significance of Gitlow v. New York (1925) was that

A) a provision of the Bill of Rights was applied to the states for the first time.
B) the national government was prevented from violating the Bill of Rights.
C) a state constitution had precedence over the United States Constitution within that state.
D) the Bill of Rights was interpreted as restraining only the national government and not cities or states.
E) the U.S. Constitution has precedence over the state constitution within the state.







Answer: A

In Gitlow v. New York (1925), the decision that states could not abridge the freedoms of expression protected by the First Amendment was based on the

In Gitlow v. New York (1925), the decision that states could not abridge the freedoms of expression protected by the First Amendment was based on the

A) Fifth Amendment.
B) New York State Constitution.
C) Fourteenth Amendment.
D) First Amendment.
E) exclusionary rule of the judiciary.







Answer: C

Today, ________ have (has) an established church that is officially supported by the government.

Today, ________ have (has) an established church that is officially supported by the government.

A) the United States
B) no nation
C) Great Britain
D) all nations
E) both the United States and Great Britain







Answer: C

Unlike Great Britain and many other nations, the United States does not have an ________ church that is officially supported by the government and recognized as a national institution.

Unlike Great Britain and many other nations, the United States does not have an ________ church that is officially supported by the government and recognized as a national institution.

A) ecclesiastical
B) adjudicated
C) imperial
D) incorporated
E) established.







Answer: E

Thomas Jefferson argued that the First Amendment created a "wall of separation" between

Thomas Jefferson argued that the First Amendment created a "wall of separation" between

A) the government and the people.
B) the Congress, the president, and the Supreme Court.
C) the people and the Supreme Court.
D) church and state.
E) men and women.






Answer: D

The incorporation doctrine involves

The incorporation doctrine involves

A) application of the Bill of Rights to the states.
B) the government's power to regulate corporations.
C) the procedures for creating a city government.
D) the interpretation of the commerce clause.
E) the extension of judicial review to state courts.





Answer: A

The ________ includes the clause "Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion"

The ________ includes the clause "Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion"

A) Fifth Amendment
B) First Amendment
C) Second Amendment
D) Religious Rights Amendment
E) Fourteenth Amendment





Answer: B

In deciding to incorporate parts of the Bill of Rights into state laws since 1925, the Supreme Court has relied on the due process clause of the

In deciding to incorporate parts of the Bill of Rights into state laws since 1925, the Supreme Court has relied on the due process clause of the

A) First Amendment.
B) Twenty-sixth Amendment.
C) Fourteenth Amendment.
D) Fifth Amendment.
E) Eighteenth Amendment.








Answer: C

Beginning with the case of ________ in 1925, the Supreme Court began to rule that the Bill of Rights applied directly to the states, as well as to the national government.

Beginning with the case of ________ in 1925, the Supreme Court began to rule that the Bill of Rights applied directly to the states, as well as to the national government.

A) United States v. Bill of Rights
B) Miranda v. Arizona
C) Engel v. Vitale
D) Barron v. Baltimore
E) Gitlow v. New York







Answer: E

Today, ________ apply to the states.

Today, ________ apply to the states.

A) all of the Bill of Rights except the First Amendment
B) all of the Bill of Rights
C) none of the Bill of Rights
D) four amendments of the Bill of Rights
E) all but five provisions or amendments of the Bill of Rights






Answer: E

The Supreme Court decision in Barron v. Baltimore (1833) maintained that the Bill of Rights intended to prevent

The Supreme Court decision in Barron v. Baltimore (1833) maintained that the Bill of Rights intended to prevent

A) both the national and state governments from violating civil rights.
B) cities from taking private property without due process.
C) only the national government from abridging civil liberties.
D) the states from infringing on individual rights.
E) the United States government from granting titles of royalty.








Answer: C

The great freedoms of speech, press, religion, and assembly are contained in the

The great freedoms of speech, press, religion, and assembly are contained in the

A) First, Second, Third and Fourth Amendments.
B) Fourth Amendment.
C) Second Amendment.
D) Third Amendment.
E) First Amendment.







Answer: E

In the case of ________, the Supreme Court ruled that the Bill of Rights restrained only the national government, not states and cities.

In the case of ________, the Supreme Court ruled that the Bill of Rights restrained only the national government, not states and cities.

A) Miranda v. Arizona
B) Barron v. Baltimore
C) New York v. the United States
D) Engel v. Vitale
E) Gitlow v. New York








Answer: B

Which of the following statements about the Bill of Rights is FALSE?

Which of the following statements about the Bill of Rights is FALSE?

A) The Bill of Rights was written by the First Congress of the United States.
B) The Bill of Rights consists of the first ten amendments to the Constitution.
C) Most state constitutions did not have a Bill of Rights at the time of the Constitutional Convention.
D) Many states made adoption of a Bill of Rights a condition of ratification of the Constitution.
E) The Constitution of 1787 contained no Bill of Rights.








Answer: C

The Bill of Rights was adopted primarily in response to

The Bill of Rights was adopted primarily in response to

A) the Spanish Inquisition.
B) British abuses of the colonists' civil liberties.
C) the abuses committed by the United States Continental Army during the Revolutionary War.
D) the horrors of the French Revolution.
E) Shays' Rebellion.








Answer: B

The Bill of Rights was written and proposed by

The Bill of Rights was written and proposed by

A) the United States Supreme Court in 1796.
B) the First Congress of the United States in 1789.
C) the Constitutional Convention in 1787.
D) President George Washington in 1789.
E) President Thomas Jefferson in 1801.








Answer: B

At the time of the ratification of the Constitution,

At the time of the ratification of the Constitution,

A) all states had bills of rights but there was no national Bill of Rights.
B) the national Bill of Rights also applied to the states.
C) there were no bills of rights in the United States.
D) both the national government and the states had bills of rights.
E) the national government had a Bill of Rights but, there were no state bills of rights.






Answer: A

Civil liberties consist of

Civil liberties consist of

A) legal and constitutional protections against the government.
B) the right to be treated equally under the law.
C) the cumulative decisions of the Supreme Court.
D) the right of citizens to sue government.

Answer: A

The ________ is the final interpreter of the content and scope of Americans' civil liberties.

The ________ is the final interpreter of the content and scope of Americans' civil liberties.

A) president
B) Congress
C) Supreme Court
D) American Civil Liberties Union
E) Constitution







Answer: C

Americans' civil liberties are set down in

Americans' civil liberties are set down in

A) the Declaration of Independence.
B) the Bill of Rights.
C) Article I of the Constitution.
D) no written document or law.
E) the Preamble to the Constitution.







Answer: B

Civil liberties are

Civil liberties are

A) freedoms that are not specified in the Constitution or in statutory laws, but make up the Unwritten Constitution.
B) the rights to vote and participate in the political process in a democracy.
C) laws that provide and set limits on one's freedoms.
D) citizens' rights to equal treatment under the law.
E) individual legal and constitutional protections against the government.






Answer: E

Each of the following is considered a disadvantage of federalism for democracy EXCEPT

Each of the following is considered a disadvantage of federalism for democracy EXCEPT

A) local interests may be able to thwart national majority support of certain policies.
B) powerful interests in a state can use the state as a power base to promote their interests.
C) voter turnout rates in state and local elections are even lower than in national elections.
D) large number of governments in the United States make exercising democratic control more difficult.
E) policy diversity can discourage states from providing services that would otherwise be available.

Answer: D

As a result of our federal form of government, the death penalty in the United States

As a result of our federal form of government, the death penalty in the United States

A) is mandatory.
B) is in violation of the Eighth Amendment.
C) is permissible at the federal level, but banned at the state level.
D) varies substantially by state.
E) is permissible because it is not considered cruel and unusual punishment.

Answer: D

Federalism contributes to democracy by each of the following ways EXCEPT

Federalism contributes to democracy by each of the following ways EXCEPT

A) easing the burdens on the national government so it can function more effectively.
B) increasing the opportunities for government to be responsive to demands for policies.
C) increasing access to government.
D) having state governments add thousands of elected offices for which citizens may vote or run.
E) providing a means for unified public policy.

Answer: E

Federalism is advantageous for democracy for each of the following reasons EXCEPT

Federalism is advantageous for democracy for each of the following reasons EXCEPT

A) allows for a greater diversity of opinion to be reflected in public policies.
B) increases the number of decisions and compromises made at the national level.
C) increases access to government.
D) allows more opportunities for political participation.
E) allows customization of policies for local needs.

Answer: B

Business interests have traditionally found their demands received most favorably by

Business interests have traditionally found their demands received most favorably by

A) state governments.
B) the courts.
C) Congress.
D) the president.
E) cities.

Answer: A

Sometimes states tackle problems that are generally considered national problems. This is most likely to occur when the federal government acts in a way that most state residents do not like. An example of this is

Sometimes states tackle problems that are generally considered national problems. This is most likely to occur when the federal government acts in a way that most state residents do not like. An example of this is

A) state funding for stem cell research in California.
B) lowering the minimum wage.
C) collecting taxes on purchases made on the Internet.
D) restrictions on the chemicals that can be used for developing digital photographs.
E) local school board policies about which textbooks are appropriate.

Answer: A

______ have usually found the individual state governments to be more sympathetic than the national government to their demands.

______ have usually found the individual state governments to be more sympathetic than the national government to their demands.

A) Feminists
B) Civil rights advocates
C) Business interests
D) Those favoring the closing of military bases
E) Supporters of organized labor






Answer: C

A number of states have sued the federal government for reimbursement of funds on the grounds that

A number of states have sued the federal government for reimbursement of funds on the grounds that

A) overcrowded prisons are a form of cruel and unusual punishment.
B) Trick question! States cannot sue the federal government.
C) it has no right to charter a national bank.
D) the federal government isn't preventing illegal immigration into their states.
E) the Federal Reserve Board has pushed interest rates too high, increasing state borrowing costs.

Answer: D

Which of the following statements is TRUE?

Which of the following statements is TRUE?

A) Federal grants can put an unwanted financial burden on states.
B) When Congress imposes a program on the states, it also provides the funds for the program.
C) Congress decreased funding of Medicaid in the 1980s to relieve state financial burdens.
D) States are always seeking increases in grant programs.
E) all of the above

Answer: A

Which of the following is most equitably distributed in America?

Which of the following is most equitably distributed in America?

A) income
B) access to education
C) taxes
D) credit
E) federal aid to states and cities

Answer: E

Medicaid is an example of

Medicaid is an example of

A) a federal grant program that produces considerable competition between the states.
B) a federal grant program that receives little support from the political parties.
C) a federal block grant.
D) a federal grant program that puts an economic strain on the states.
E) all of the above

Answer: D

In 1995, the Republican majority in Congress, in contrast to previous Democratic Congresses,

In 1995, the Republican majority in Congress, in contrast to previous Democratic Congresses,

A) limited the use of unfunded mandates.
B) prohibited the states from using unfunded mandates.
C) limited the use of block grants.
D) avoided funded mandates.
E) all of the above

Answer: A

Expansions of mandated programs by the national government present especially difficult funding problems for

Expansions of mandated programs by the national government present especially difficult funding problems for

A) Congress.
B) federal taxpayers.
C) state and local governments.
D) foreign governments.
E) the recipient of the service or program.

Answer: C

The largest percentage of federal grants to states and localities is in the area of

The largest percentage of federal grants to states and localities is in the area of

A) defense.
B) health.
C) transportation.
D) education.
E) homeland security.






Answer: B

Which of the following statements about federal block grants is FALSE?

Which of the following statements about federal block grants is FALSE?

A) Block grants were created to lessen the paperwork and strings attached to many grants-in-aid.
B) Congress has established an unlimited number of block grants to support narrowly defined programs.
C) The Republican Congress is increasing block grants.
D) States have discretion in deciding how to spend block grant money.
E) They provide the states more flexibility in spending.

Answer: B

A broad program for community development would most likely be supported through a(n)

A broad program for community development would most likely be supported through a(n)

A) formula grant.
B) enterprise zone.
C) project grant.
D) categorical grant.
E) block grant.





Answer: E

Grants that are given more or less automatically to states or communities, which have discretion in deciding how to spend the money are called

Grants that are given more or less automatically to states or communities, which have discretion in deciding how to spend the money are called

A) project grants.
B) discretionary grants.
C) formula grants.
D) categorical grants.
E) block grants.

Answer: E

Medicaid and Aid for Families with Dependent Children are examples of

Medicaid and Aid for Families with Dependent Children are examples of

A) categorical grants.
B) formula grants.
C) project grants.
D) state grants.
E) block grants.

Answer: B

Grants for specific programs distributed according to community demographic factors, such as population or income, are

Grants for specific programs distributed according to community demographic factors, such as population or income, are

A) formula grants.
B) categorical grants.
C) revenue sharing grants.
D) project grants.
E) block grants.





Answer: A

Project grants

Project grants

A) have no strings attached.
B) are awarded on the basis of competitive applications.
C) are distributed according to a specific formula.
D) are automatically given to states and communities.
E) all of the above

Answer: B

On the whole, federal grant distribution follows the principle of

On the whole, federal grant distribution follows the principle of

A) universalism.
B) stinginess.
C) cronyism.
D) to the victors go the spoils.
E) needs-testing.

Answer: A

In response to complaints from state and local governments about the paperwork and requirements attached to most grants, Congress has established ________ to support programs in areas like community development and social services.

In response to complaints from state and local governments about the paperwork and requirements attached to most grants, Congress has established ________ to support programs in areas like community development and social services.

A) formula grants
B) block grants
C) project grants
D) categorical grants
E) computerized grant applications

Answer: B

The fact that the former Republican majority in Congress prefers block grants to categorical grants indicates that

The fact that the former Republican majority in Congress prefers block grants to categorical grants indicates that

A) they want to increase federal aid to state governments.
B) they want federal money to be spent at the neighborhood level rather than the state level.
C) they want to decrease federal aid to state governments.
D) they want the federal government to exercise less authority over the states.
E) they intend to raise more money from state governments to reduce the federal budget deficit.

Answer: D

In contrast to the Democratic Congress of recent decades, the new Republican majority in Congress is passing more federal aid in the form of

In contrast to the Democratic Congress of recent decades, the new Republican majority in Congress is passing more federal aid in the form of

A) revenue sharing.
B) categorical grants.
C) block grants.
D) tax credits.
E) tax expenditures.

Answer: C

Programs such as Medicaid and Aid for Families with Dependent Children, where applicants automatically qualify for aid if they meet the requirements, are examples of

Programs such as Medicaid and Aid for Families with Dependent Children, where applicants automatically qualify for aid if they meet the requirements, are examples of

A) dual federalism.
B) project grants.
C) formula grants.
D) block grants.
E) welfare.




Answer: C

A project grant is

A project grant is

A) money awarded for public housing in urban areas of the nation.
B) awarded more or less automatically to states or communities.
C) awarded on the basis of competitive application.
D) restricted to construction projects.
E) distributed on the basis of population, per capita income, percentage of rural population, or some other factor.

Answer: C

The most common type of categorical grant is

The most common type of categorical grant is

A) block grants.
B) a rescission fund.
C) project grants.
D) disaster relief.
E) revenue sharing.






Answer: C

The requirement of a drinking age provision before states can receive federal highway aid is an example of

The requirement of a drinking age provision before states can receive federal highway aid is an example of

A) a string attached to categorical grants.
B) an important element of the "formula" used to calculate formula grants.
C) a project grant supported by the interest groups.
D) the efforts of state agencies to get federal funds.
E) an unfunded mandate.

Answer: A

The main type of federal aid to state and local governments is in the form of

The main type of federal aid to state and local governments is in the form of

A) block grants.
B) formula grants.
C) categorical grants.
D) project grants
E) revenue sharing.

Answer: C

Which of the following is NOT true about categorical grants?

Which of the following is NOT true about categorical grants?

A) The federal government is less likely to apply conditions to these grants today than in the 1970s.
B) There are several hundred specific purposes or categories for which these grants can be used.
C) Virtually every one is enshrouded in rules and regulations for its use.
D) A project grant is the most typical type of categorical grant.
E) Categorical grants are monies that can be spent in broad categories of functions.

Answer: A

The principal type of federal aid for states and localities is

The principal type of federal aid for states and localities is

A) categorical grants.
B) disaster loans.
C) revenue sharing.
D) block grants.
E) urban renewal grants.

Answer: A

Of all the funds spent by state and local governments, federal aid accounts for about

Of all the funds spent by state and local governments, federal aid accounts for about 

A) two-thirds.
B) one-half.
C) one-fourth.
D) three percent.
E) one-third.

Answer: C

The main instrument the national government uses for both aiding and influencing states and localities is

The main instrument the national government uses for both aiding and influencing states and localities is

A) judicial decisions.
B) politics.
C) grants-in-aid.
D) mandates.
E) revenue sharing.






Answer: C

The pattern of spending, taxing, and providing grants in the federal system is called

The pattern of spending, taxing, and providing grants in the federal system is called

A) economic federalism.
B) dual federalism.
C) cooperative federalism.
D) fiscal federalism.
E) monetary federalism.







Answer: D

Fiscal federalism is

Fiscal federalism is

A) the pattern of spending, taxing, and providing grants in the federal system.
B) the distinct separation of national government spending versus state and local government spending.
C) the federal government's regulation of the money supply and interest rates.
D) the federal income tax.
E) a sharing of local and national resources practiced in other countries but not in the United States.

Answer: A

The main instrument the national government uses to influence state governments is

The main instrument the national government uses to influence state governments is 

A) grants-in-aid.
B) mandates.
C) judicial review.
D) the Tenth Amendment.
E) presidential decrees.

Answer: A

Federal aid to state and local governments accounts for how much of federal spending?

Federal aid to state and local governments accounts for how much of federal spending?

A) 33 percent
B) 50 percent
C) 2 percent
D) 18 percent
E) 75 percent






Answer: D

About ________ of the funds state and local governments spend comes from the federal government.

About ________ of the funds state and local governments spend comes from the federal government.

A) 33 percent
B) 25 percent
C) 50 percent
D) 75 percent
E) 90 percent

Answer: B

Federal regulation of state governments is usually accomplished through

Federal regulation of state governments is usually accomplished through

A) United States Supreme Court decisions.
B) presidential decrees.
C) attaching conditions to grants it gives them.
D) federalization of a state's national guard.
E) direct, executive orders.

Answer: C

In cooperative federalism, in order to qualify for federal grant money, cities and states must

In cooperative federalism, in order to qualify for federal grant money, cities and states must

A) match federal funding dollar for dollar.
B) propose standard operating procedures.
C) allow federal agencies to administer the funds.
D) follow federal guidelines for adopting and enforcing federal laws.
E) all of the above

Answer: D

Standard operating procedures in cooperative federalism include each of the following EXCEPT

Standard operating procedures in cooperative federalism include each of the following EXCEPT

A) shared administration.
B) shared costs.
C) federal funding with no strings attached.
D) federal guidelines.
E) categorical and block grants.

Answer: C

Which of the following does NOT characterize the standard operating procedure of cooperative federalism today?

Which of the following does NOT characterize the standard operating procedure of cooperative federalism today?

A) federal guidelines
B) grants-in-aid
C) shared costs
D) separate and distinct roles for the national and state governments
E) shared administration

Answer: D

Which of the following is NOT a standard operating procedure of cooperative federalism today?

Which of the following is NOT a standard operating procedure of cooperative federalism today?

A) distinctly separated powers of state and national governments
B) federal grants-in-aid
C) shared administration of programs
D) shared financing of government
E) federal guidelines imposed on states

Answer: A

The National Defense Education Act, the Elementary and Secondary Education Act, and the Interstate Highway System are all examples of

The National Defense Education Act, the Elementary and Secondary Education Act, and the Interstate Highway System are all examples of

A) dual federalism.
B) cooperative federalism.
C) triangulation.
D) layer cake federalism.
E) unitary federalism

Answer: B

Funding for the interstate highway system is an example of

Funding for the interstate highway system is an example of

A) dual federalism.
B) cooperative federalism.
C) tripartite federalism.
D) a unitary system of government.
E) national federalism.

Answer: B

Federal support for public education is an example of a

Federal support for public education is an example of a

A) pragmatic federalism.
B) dual federalism.
C) cooperative federalism.
D) layer cake federalism.
E) separation of powers

Answer: C

Which of the following statements about federalism is false?

Which of the following statements about federalism is false?

A) In cooperative federalism, sometimes even blame is shared when programs do not work well.
B) The American system has always been neatly separated into purely state and purely national responsibilities.
C) In cooperative federalism, policy assignments are shared between states and the national government.
D) Cooperative federalism today rests on several standard operating procedures.
E) None; all are true.

Answer: B

Since the ratification of the Constitution, American federalism has gradually changed from

Since the ratification of the Constitution, American federalism has gradually changed from

A) cooperative to dual federalism.
B) state domination to national domination.
C) dual to cooperative federalism.
D) a unitary to a federal system.
E) a federal system to a unitary one.

Answer: C

In cooperative federalism,

In cooperative federalism,

A) states and the national government each remain supreme within their own spheres.
B) responsibilities are mingled and distinctions are blurred between the levels of government.
C) powers and policy assignments of the layers of government are distinct.
D) states are supreme over the national government.
E) both A and B

Answer: B

In dual federalism,

In dual federalism,

A) the state governments assume greater fiscal responsibility.
B) there are only two branches of government.
C) the federal government assumes greater fiscal responsibility.
D) powers are shared between states and the federal government.
E) states and the national government each remain supreme within their own spheres.

Answer: E

In ________ federalism, the powers and policy assignments of different levels of government are like a marble cake, with mingled responsibilities and blurred distinctions between layers of government.

In ________ federalism, the powers and policy assignments of different levels of government are like a marble cake, with mingled responsibilities and blurred distinctions between layers of government.

A) fiscal
B) mixed
C) dual
D) cooperative
E) tripartite

Answer: D

Over time, there has been a gradual change from a dual federalism to a(n) ________ federalism.

Over time, there has been a gradual change from a dual federalism to a(n) ________ federalism.

A) unitary
B) single
C) tripartite
D) cooperative
E) fiscal

Answer: D

If the allocation of power under dual federalism were compared to a cake it would be most like

If the allocation of power under dual federalism were compared to a cake it would be most like

A) a marbled cake where the flavors blend into each other.
B) an angel food cake, fluffy with little substance.
C) New York cheesecake, heavy and crushing under its own weight.
D) a layer cake, with two distinct layers.
E) a cupcake.

Answer: D

If the allocation of power in a cooperative federal system were compared to a cake it would be most like

If the allocation of power in a cooperative federal system were compared to a cake it would be most like

A) a layer cake with two distinct layers.
B) a single-layer cake.
C) a cake walk: who gets what is random.
D) fifty marbled cupcakes.
E) a layer cake with many layers.

Answer: D

A tuition difference between in-state and out-of-state students is an example of

A tuition difference between in-state and out-of-state students is an example of

A) dual federalism.
B) federal exceptions to the full faith and credit provision.
C) full faith and credit being extended to all students.
D) how states make exceptions to the privileges and immunities clause.
E) project grants to the states.

Answer: D

In Saenz v. Roe, the Supreme Court ruled that

In Saenz v. Roe, the Supreme Court ruled that

A) California was required to recognize the legality of same sex marriages.
B) California could not require a new resident to wait one year before being eligible for welfare benefits.
C) California could withhold educational benefits from children of illegal immigrants.
D) California was required to offer bilingual education programs in the public elementary schools.
E) California could not provide welfare benefits to illegal immigrants.

Answer: B

The national government has exclusive control over foreign and military policy, the postal system, and monetary policy, while the states have exclusive control over other specific areas. This division of responsibilities reflects

The national government has exclusive control over foreign and military policy, the postal system, and monetary policy, while the states have exclusive control over other specific areas. This division of responsibilities reflects

A) dual federalism.
B) divided government.
C) tripartite federalism.
D) cooperative federalism.
E) fiscal federalism.

Answer: A

In ________ federalism, the powers and policy assignments of the different levels of government are distinct, like a layer cake.

In ________ federalism, the powers and policy assignments of the different levels of government are distinct, like a layer cake.

A) fiscal
B) dual
C) tripartite
D) cooperative

Answer: B

Extradition is the requirement that states

Extradition is the requirement that states

A) provide sanctuary for federal criminals.
B) cannot discriminate against citizens of other states.
C) recognize each others public acts, records, and civil judicial proceedings.
D) must return a person charged with a crime in another state to that state for trial or imprisonment.
E) enforce federal law within their state.

Answer: D

One recently controversial application of the "full faith and credit" provision of the Constitution is for

One recently controversial application of the "full faith and credit" provision of the Constitution is for

A) extradition.
B) birth certificates.
C) same gender marriages.
D) bigamy.
E) abortion

Answer: C

The constitutional requirement that the states return a person charged with a crime in another state to that state for trial or imprisonment is known as

The constitutional requirement that the states return a person charged with a crime in another state to that state for trial or imprisonment is known as

A) forfeiture.
B) extradition.
C) privileges and immunities.
D) full faith and credit.
E) the elastic clause.

Answer: B

The fact that a driver's license from one state is valid in other states is an example of

The fact that a driver's license from one state is valid in other states is an example of

A) privileges and immunities.
B) extradition.
C) implied powers.
D) full faith and credit.
E) unmandated reciprocity.

Answer: D

A marriage license issued in one state is valid and honored in all states under the constitutional provision of

A marriage license issued in one state is valid and honored in all states under the constitutional provision of

A) separation of powers.
B) full faith and credit.
C) national supremacy.
D) national licensure.
E) privileges and immunities.






Answer: B

Contracts between business firms can be enforced across state boundaries as part of the constitutional provision of

Contracts between business firms can be enforced across state boundaries as part of the constitutional provision of

A) interstate compacts.
B) privileges and immunities.
C) implied powers of the states.
D) extradition.
E) full faith and credit.






Answer: E

The Constitution requires that states give ________ to the public acts, records, and civil judicial proceedings of every other state.

The Constitution requires that states give ________ to the public acts, records, and civil judicial proceedings of every other state.

A) privileges and immunities
B) due process
C) full faith and credit
D) some consideration
E) extradition

Answer: C

In the 1950s and 1960s, the proclamation of states' rights was usually made by those opposing the national government's efforts in the area of

In the 1950s and 1960s, the proclamation of states' rights was usually made by those opposing the national government's efforts in the area of

A) the Vietnam War.
B) abortion rights.
C) civil rights for African Americans.
D) the interstate highway system.
E) the Korean War.








Answer: C

The Supreme Court case of Printz v. United States

The Supreme Court case of Printz v. United States

A) enhanced the powers of Congress by expanding its interpretation of commerce.
B) denied Congress the power of regulating guns in school zones.
C) voided the congressional mandate in the Brady Handgun Violence Prevention Act requiring local community officials to conduct background checks on prospective gun purchasers.
D) affirmed the provisions of the Brady Handgun Violence Prevention Act.
E) none of the above

Answer: C

Abraham Lincoln announced in his 1861 inaugural address that he would willingly support a constitutional amendment to

Abraham Lincoln announced in his 1861 inaugural address that he would willingly support a constitutional amendment to

A) prohibit states from seceding from the Union.
B) return the United States to a confederation, with greater powers given to the states.
C) establish the United States as a unitary system, where states would have to obey all national government decisions.
D) outlaw slavery.
E) guarantee slavery.

Answer: E

Enumerated powers are those that are

Enumerated powers are those that are

A) reserved for the states.
B) stated in the Constitution.
C) implied in the Constitution.
D) involving money matters.
E) granted specifically to the president.

Answer: B

The Supreme Court case of Gibbons v. Ogden

The Supreme Court case of Gibbons v. Ogden

A) defined the meaning of the elastic clause.
B) settled the contested presidential election of 1824.
C) defined commerce as virtually every form of commercial activity.
D) established the principle of implied powers.
E) established the supremacy of the national government.

Answer: C

Federal policies to regulate food and drugs, build interstate highways, and protect consumers are all justified as

Federal policies to regulate food and drugs, build interstate highways, and protect consumers are all justified as

A) presidential prerogatives.
B) enumerated powers of Congress.
C) delegated powers of Congress.
D) implied powers of Congress.
E) both C and D

Answer: D

Which of the following federal policies exemplifies the implied powers of Congress?

Which of the following federal policies exemplifies the implied powers of Congress?

A) environmental protection law
B) income tax
C) the regulation of interstate commerce
D) the provision of an army and a navy
E) all of the above

Answer: E

The Constitution states that Congress has the power to establish post offices. This is an example of

The Constitution states that Congress has the power to establish post offices. This is an example of

A) enumerated powers.
B) delegated powers.
C) implied powers.
D) reserved powers.
E) shared powers.

Answer: A

In determining the power of Congress to regulate commerce in the case of Gibbons v. Ogden (1824), the Supreme Court

In determining the power of Congress to regulate commerce in the case of Gibbons v. Ogden (1824), the Supreme Court

A) prohibited Congress from regulating business activity on the grounds it violated private property rights.
B) listed the implied powers of Congress and the national government.
C) defined commerce very narrowly in considering the right of Congress to regulate it.
D) listed the enumerated powers of Congress and the national government.
E) defined commerce very broadly, encompassing virtually every form of commercial activity.

Answer: E

The Constitution's provision that Congress has the right to "make all laws necessary and proper for carrying into execution" its powers is often referred to as the

The Constitution's provision that Congress has the right to "make all laws necessary and proper for carrying into execution" its powers is often referred to as the

A) enumerated powers.
B) heart of fiscal federalism.
C) Unwritten Amendment.
D) elastic clause.
E) privileges and immunities.

Answer: D

Federal policies to regulate food and drugs, build interstate highways, protect consumers, try to clean up dirty air and water, and do many other things are all justified as ________ of Congress.

Federal policies to regulate food and drugs, build interstate highways, protect consumers, try to clean up dirty air and water, and do many other things are all justified as ________ of Congress.

A) implied powers
B) categorical grants
C) constitutionally specified powers
D) reserved powers
E) enumerated powers

Answer: A

The enumerated powers of Congress and the national government are those

The enumerated powers of Congress and the national government are those

A) specifically spelled out in the Constitution.
B) set out in the first ten amendments.
C) involving taxes, spending, and fiscal policy.
D) not specifically spelled out in the Constitution, but nonetheless acknowledged.
E) requiring ratification by the states.

Answer: A

The principle that the national government has certain implied powers that go beyond its enumerated powers was first elaborated in the Supreme Court's decision in

The principle that the national government has certain implied powers that go beyond its enumerated powers was first elaborated in the Supreme Court's decision in

A) United States v. the States.
B) Gibbons v. Ogden.
C) Miranda v. Arizona.
D) McCulloch v. Maryland.
E) Marbury v. Madison.

Answer: D

The Supreme Court case of McCulloch v. Maryland (1819)

The Supreme Court case of McCulloch v. Maryland (1819)

A) established Baltimore as the capital of Maryland.
B) stated that the Constitution gave Congress implied powers.
C) established the principle of judicial review.
D) established the supremacy of state governments.
E) recognized that Congress was limited to its enumerated powers.

Answer: B

The principle of the supremacy of federal law over state law was affirmed in

The principle of the supremacy of federal law over state law was affirmed in

A) Marbury v. Madison.
B) the Tenth Amendment.
C) United States v. Darby.
D) McCulloch v. Maryland.
E) the presidential election of 1804.

Answer: D

The McCulloch v. Maryland case dealt with what specific grievance?

The McCulloch v. Maryland case dealt with what specific grievance?

A) a state taxing a national bank
B) toll bridges on interstate roads
C) the location of Maryland's capital city
D) a state coining its own money
E) import taxes on goods made in other states

Answer: A

In its McCulloch v. Maryland decision, the Supreme Court ruled in favor of

In its McCulloch v. Maryland decision, the Supreme Court ruled in favor of

A) judicial restraint.
B) judicial review.
C) the supremacy of the national government over the states.
D) the supremacy of the states over the national government.
E) Maryland in a dispute with the national government.

Answer: C

Which of these was NOT a principle established in the case of McCulloch v. Maryland?

Which of these was NOT a principle established in the case of McCulloch v. Maryland?

A) State governments are forbidden spending more money than they raise each year, while there is no such requirement on the national government.
B) The national government can establish a national bank, even though the Constitution does not say it can.
C) The national government is supreme to the states when it is acting within its sphere of action.
D) The national government has certain implied powers that go beyond its enumerated powers.
E) State laws preempt national laws when the national government clearly exceeds its constitutional powers and intrudes upon state powers.

Answer: A

What was the main criticism of the national bank created by the United States government?

What was the main criticism of the national bank created by the United States government?

A) It was printing too much worthless paper money which debtors were using to pay off their debts.
B) It was charging exorbitant interest rates on its loans.
C) It was borrowing too much money, putting the United States government hopelessly in debt.
D) It was an instrument of the elite and gave the national government too much control of the economy.
E) It did not efficiently distribute money to the states.

Answer: D

Only the national government is allowed to

Only the national government is allowed to

A) levy taxes.
B) regulate commerce with foreign nations.
C) take private property for public purposes.
D) make and enforce laws.
E) all of the above

Answer: B

The Tenth Amendment

The Tenth Amendment

A) declares that the national government is superior to the states in every concern.
B) establishes the Constitution, laws of the national government, and treaties as the supreme law of the land.
C) establishes the Supreme Court as the final arbiter in all civil and criminal disputes.
D) establishes the number of electoral votes each state can cast in the electoral college.
E) states that powers not delegated to the United States by the Constitution, nor prohibited by the states, are reserved for the states.

Answer: E

In the Constitution, the powers to coin money, to enter into treaties, and to regulate commerce with foreign nations and among the states were given to

In the Constitution, the powers to coin money, to enter into treaties, and to regulate commerce with foreign nations and among the states were given to

A) neither the individual states nor the national government.
B) the national government.
C) the individual states.
D) the Senate only.
E) both the individual states and the national government.

Answer: B

The primary thrust of the original intent and wording of the Tenth Amendment is that

The primary thrust of the original intent and wording of the Tenth Amendment is that

A) state legislatures have the ultimate authority to determine what a state government's powers are.
B) states have certain powers that the national government cannot encroach upon.
C) the national government can take control of a state government during a national emergency.
D) national laws override state laws when there is a conflict between the two.
E) both the states and national government are bound by the limitations in the Bill of Rights.

Answer: B

The supremacy clause

The supremacy clause

A) establishes the Constitution, laws of the national government, and treaties as the supreme law of the land.
B) establishes the Supreme Court as the final arbiter in all civil and criminal disputes.
C) declares that the national government is superior to the states in every concern.
D) states that powers not delegated to the United States by the Constitution, nor prohibited by the states, are reserved to the states.
E) states that the people are the supreme authority in the United States and that the government shall be subservient to them.

Answer: A

The efforts of Candy Lightner and Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) to raise the legal drinking age to 21 are an example of

The efforts of Candy Lightner and Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) to raise the legal drinking age to 21 are an example of

A) the supremacy of state government to regulate its own affairs.
B) the constitutional authority of the national government to impose policies on state governments.
C) states acting as policy innovators.
D) the unconstitutionality of age discrimination.
E) the ability of the national government to influence state policy.

Answer: E

The Constitution's supremacy clause

The Constitution's supremacy clause

A) does not apply to state and local matters.
B) gives the states superiority over the national government's Constitution and laws.
C) made the Constitution, the laws of the national government, and the national government's treaties the supreme law of the land.
D) is vague about which level of government should prevail in a dispute involving federalism.
E) makes the president supreme in any constitutional conflicts with the other two branches.

Answer: C

The supremacy clause of the Constitution states that all of the following are the supreme law of the land, EXCEPT

The supremacy clause of the Constitution states that all of the following are the supreme law of the land, EXCEPT

A) laws of the national government (when consistent with the Constitution).
B) the United States Constitution.
C) state constitutions.
D) treaties of the national government (when consistent with the Constitution).
E) both C and D

Answer: C

Which of the following statements about federalism is FALSE?

Which of the following statements about federalism is FALSE?

A) Federalism was hotly debated at the Constitutional Convention.
B) Eighteenth-century Americans had little experience in thinking of themselves as Americans first and state citizens second.
C) There was no other practical choice in 1787 but to create a federal system of government.
D) Loyalty to state governments was so strong that the Constitution would have been resoundingly defeated had it tried to abolish them.
E) None of the above; all are TRUE.

Answer: A

Almost every policy the national government has adopted has originated with

Almost every policy the national government has adopted has originated with

A) the Senate.
B) the states.
C) the House of Representatives.
D) the Supreme Court.
E) the president.

Answer: B

From clean-air legislation to welfare reforms, the states constitute a ________ to develop and test public policies and share the results with other states and the national government.

From clean-air legislation to welfare reforms, the states constitute a ________ to develop and test public policies and share the results with other states and the national government.

A) major roadblock
B) national laboratory
C) neglected resource
D) last chance
E) severe reluctance

Answer: B

As the framers wrote the Constitution they had no practical choice but to adopt a federal system for all but which of the following reasons?

As the framers wrote the Constitution they had no practical choice but to adopt a federal system for all but which of the following reasons?

A) The confederation had clearly failed in managing the country's problems.
B) The population was too dispersed for a unitary system to work.
C) Americans' loyalty to state governments was stronger than it was to the United States.
D) America had always had a federal system and it would have been too radical and disruptive a change to adopt another system.
E) The country's transportation and communication systems were too primitive for a unitary government to work.

Answer: D

In our federal system, the powers of the state governments are ultimately granted by

In our federal system, the powers of the state governments are ultimately granted by

A) their state's Supreme Court.
B) the people of their state.
C) their state legislature.
D) the United States Constitution.
E) the United States government.

Answer: D

Which of these is NOT among the factors that tend to lead to the creation of a federal form of government in a country?

Which of these is NOT among the factors that tend to lead to the creation of a federal form of government in a country?

A) large population
B) diverse population
C) large land area
D) the existence of multiple religions
E) industrialization

Answer: E

All of the following are examples of how federalism decentralizes our policies EXCEPT

All of the following are examples of how federalism decentralizes our policies EXCEPT

A) federal income tax.
B) regulation of abortion.
C) death penalty.
D) funding of education.
E) homeland security.

Answer: A

Laws that directly regulate abortion, drinking ages, marriage and divorce, or sexual behavior are policy prerogatives that belong to

Laws that directly regulate abortion, drinking ages, marriage and divorce, or sexual behavior are policy prerogatives that belong to

A) the bureaucracy.
B) the states.
C) Congress.
D) local governments.
E) federal courts.

Answer: B

States are responsible for most public policies dealing with each of the following issues EXCEPT

States are responsible for most public policies dealing with each of the following issues EXCEPT

A) economic issues.
B) social issues.
C) police powers.
D) family issues.
E) moral issues.

Answer: A

The power to directly regulate such things as drinking ages, marriage and divorce, and sexual behavior has been granted

The power to directly regulate such things as drinking ages, marriage and divorce, and sexual behavior has been granted

A) to all governments by the Bill of Rights.
B) to the national government.
C) to the president.
D) to state governments.
E) to both the state and national governments

Answer: D

Which of the following is NOT an effect of federalism?

Which of the following is NOT an effect of federalism?

A) It simplifies the governmental system.
B) Courts are called upon to be referees, and they gain power.
C) It decentralizes political power.
D) It creates more access points to government.
E) It increases bureaucracy.

Answer: A

The federal system

The federal system

A) decreases judicial power.
B) centralizes our politics.
C) decreases opportunities for political participation.
D) decreases the number of government officeholders.
E) decentralizes our politics.

Answer: E

Which one of the following countries has federalism as its method of governing?

Which one of the following countries has federalism as its method of governing?

A) Canada
B) China
C) France
D) Kenya
E) No other country uses federalism.

Answer: A