The host, Craig, introduces the new Crash Course series on Government and Politics. He begins by asking numerous questions about the government, politics, and civic participation, highlighting the importance of understanding these topics. Craig defines government as a set of rules and institutions that enable people to function together as a unified society, and politics as the distribution of power and decision-making within the government. He emphasizes that studying government and politics is crucial for becoming informed citizens and participating in the democratic process.
Craig also discusses various ways people can participate in politics beyond voting, such as contacting representatives, working for campaigns, and expressing opinions through social media. He stresses the importance of education and knowledge in becoming a good citizen and notes that learning about politics is essential for making informed decisions and protecting against unscrupulous individuals who might exploit ignorance.
Throughout the series, Craig promises to explore topics such as the structure and function of government branches, political parties, interest groups, the media's role in politics, and civil rights and liberties. The ultimate goal of the series is to empower viewers to become more engaged and active citizens, equipped with the knowledge to make their government more responsive and inclusive.
Here are the extracted key facts:
1. "Crash Course Government and Politics" is a new show.
2. The host of the show is Craig.
3. Craig is not John Green.
4. The show is produced in association with PBS Digital Studios.
5. The show is supported by Vocal, a non-profit that uses technology and media to advance social equity.
6. The U.S.A. is a republic, which means that citizens elect representatives to govern them.
7. The U.S.A. is also a democracy, which means that citizens are allowed to participate.
8. Everyone born in America is automatically a citizen.
9. Many people choose to become U.S. citizens every year.
10. The most important thing people can do to participate in government and politics is to become more educated.
11. Knowledge is the best defense against unscrupulous people who use ignorance to get people to do what they want.
12. The show will cover topics such as the structure and function of the branches of government, the division of power between the national government and the state governments, and the role of the media in government and politics.
13. The show will also examine the role of the legal system and the courts in protecting civil rights and civil liberties.
14. The show will look at political ideologies, including what it means to be a liberal, conservative, libertarian, or socialist.
15. The show aims to help viewers become more engaged and active citizens.