1). A). Compare the U.S. Congress with the British Parliament. In what important ways are they alike? In what important ways are they different?
B). What do you think are the advantages and disadvantages of the congressional system?
C). What do you think are the major advantages and disadvantages of the parliamentary system? Why?
2). A). How does the role of the American president differ from that of a prime minister?
B). In Britain, the prime minister must have served in Parliament prior to assuming that office. Should the U.S. Constitution be amended to require prior government service of candidates for the presidency? Why or why not?
C). In parliamentary systems, the roles of head of state (a ceremonial official) and head of government (an official who makes and implements decisions) are separated. Would you favor or oppose such a separation in the United States? Why?
3). A). The Framers "wrestled with the language of Article II, Section 1 to give the president sufficient power without giving him excessive power, as well as how to free him from excessive dependence on the legislature while at the same time assuring that he did not become an elective monarch." To what extent have the Framers hopes been realized? What evidence can you offer to support your position?
B). Article III, Section 1 gives the president executive power but does not define what that power is. How would you define executive power? What examples can you cite of presidents using their executive power?
C). How can Congress check the exercise of the president's power?
Due: Sunday by no later than 11:59pm
