Earth Science and Political Systems: Key Concepts
Earth's Structure and Geological Phenomena
Earth is divided into tectonic plates. The Earth's crust is composed of several plates.
- Volcanoes: Openings or cracks in the Earth's crust where hot material from the interior escapes.
- Earthquakes (Seismic Activity): Tremors caused by fractures and the movement of rocks.
- Tsunamis: Powerful waves capable of traveling great distances and causing significant destruction to coastal areas.
Relief and Hydrology
Influence of Relief: Relief refers to the inequalities present on the land surface.
Spanish Rivers: Peninsular rivers flow into three different seas: the Cantabrian, the Atlantic, and the Mediterranean. Galician rivers are generally short, with the exception of the main tributaries, the Miño and the Sil. Other notable rivers include the Nalón, Orbigo, Valderaduey, Pisuerga, Eresma, Turia, and Genil.
Political Systems and Governance
- Theocracy: A system where a religion is dominant, sacred books become law, and religious leaders assume government control.
- Monarchy: States governed by a King or Queen.
- Republic: A state without a monarch, typically led by a president.
State Organization and Institutions
To manage territory effectively, states are divided into administrative units. State institutions hold power throughout the territory.
- Centralized State: Institutions depend directly on the central government.
- Decentralized State: Power is distributed among regional institutions.
International Organizations
- FAO: Food and Agriculture Organization
- UNESCO: Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization
- WHO: World Health Organization
- ILO: International Labour Organization
The State: Definition and Functions
A State is the highest administrative unit governing a territory. It consists of:
- Territory: The area over which power is exercised.
- Population: The citizens of the state, who have rights and obligations, such as paying taxes.
- State Power: The set of laws that must be obeyed by all persons.
Functions of the State: Maintaining public order, defending citizens and territory against external aggression, establishing international relationships, enacting laws, providing essential services, and regulating the economy.
Forms of Government
- Democratic State: Power is held by the people.
- Rule of Law: Laws must be respected by all persons, regardless of their position or power.
- Dictatorship: Power is held by individuals, groups, religious leaders, or a single political party.
- Secular State (Laic): There is a clear separation between state and religion.
- Confessional State: A state with an official religion that enjoys extensive privileges.