Can You Pass This Test On Bureaucracy?
Bureaucracy refers to both a body of non-elective government officials and an administrative policy-making group. Test your knowledge on this administrative body by taking our quiz below
- 1.
What is agency capture?
- A.
When one government agency takes over another agency’s functions
- B.
When government services are provided by private companies
- C.
When an industry regulated by an agency gains substantial power over the agency ✓
- D.
When Congress takes power over an agency away from the president
Correct Answer
A. When one government agency takes over another agency’s functionsExplanation
Agency capture refers to a situation where an industry that is regulated by a government agency gains significant influence and control over that agency. This can occur when the industry uses its power, such as through lobbying or financial incentives, to shape the agency's decisions and actions in a way that benefits its own interests rather than the public interest. In essence, the industry "captures" the agency, leading to a potential conflict of interest and undermining the agency's ability to effectively regulate and protect the public.Rate this question:
-
- 2.
What is a line organization?
- A.
An agency that reports directly to the president
- B.
An agency that is part of a larger department
- C.
An independent commission that does not answer to the president
- D.
An agency that is part of the legislative branch
Correct Answer
A. An agency that reports directly to the presidentExplanation
A line organization refers to an agency that reports directly to the president. This means that the agency operates under the direct authority and supervision of the president, without any intermediary levels of management. In a line organization, decision-making and control flow directly from the top, allowing for a more streamlined and efficient communication and decision-making process. This type of organization structure is often found in government agencies or departments that require a high level of accountability and direct control from the president.Rate this question:
-
- 3.
What is an iron triangle?
- A.
A term to describe the three branches of the federal government
- B.
A term to describe the organization of the White House staff
- C.
A collection of three executive agencies that work together regularly
- D.
An alliance of legislators, bureaucrats, and interest groups concerned with an issue
Correct Answer
D. An alliance of legislators, bureaucrats, and interest groups concerned with an issueExplanation
An iron triangle refers to an alliance formed by legislators, bureaucrats, and interest groups who collaborate and work together on a specific issue. This alliance is often characterized by a mutually beneficial relationship, where each party provides support and resources to achieve their common goals. The term "iron triangle" highlights the strong and enduring nature of this alliance, which can have a significant influence on policy-making and decision-making processes.Rate this question:
-
- 4.
What is the civil service?
- A.
Rules that require government workers to be polite to the public
- B.
The part of the bureaucracy governed by the merit system
- C.
Rules that force government agencies to hold public meetings
- D.
Government officials appointed by the president
Correct Answer
B. The part of the bureaucracy governed by the merit systemExplanation
The civil service refers to the part of the bureaucracy that is governed by the merit system. This means that individuals are hired and promoted based on their qualifications and abilities, rather than political connections or favoritism. The merit system ensures that government workers are selected based on their skills and expertise, leading to a more efficient and effective public administration.Rate this question:
-
- 5.
What do sunshine laws require agencies to do?
- A.
Save energy by using solar power
- B.
Only operate during the day
- C.
Hold regular public sessions
- D.
Ignore daylight savings time
Correct Answer
C. Hold regular public sessionsExplanation
Sunshine laws require agencies to hold regular public sessions. These laws aim to promote transparency and accountability in government by ensuring that government agencies conduct their business in an open and accessible manner. Holding regular public sessions allows citizens to have access to information and participate in the decision-making process. It helps prevent secrecy and corruption by providing an opportunity for public scrutiny and oversight.Rate this question:
-
- 6.
Who creates the President's budget?
- A.
OMB
- B.
Treasury Department
- C.
CBO
- D.
GAO
Correct Answer
A. OMBExplanation
The Office of Management and Budget (OMB) creates the President's budget. As part of the executive branch of the U.S. government, the OMB is responsible for assisting the President in formulating the budget proposal. The OMB works closely with federal agencies to gather information and develop the budget, taking into account the President's priorities and policies. The budget proposal is then submitted to Congress for review and approval. The Treasury Department, Congressional Budget Office (CBO), and Government Accountability Office (GAO) may provide input and analysis during the budget process, but the OMB is primarily responsible for its creation.Rate this question:
-
- 7.
Who has the power to create departments?
- A.
President
- B.
Supreme Court
- C.
Congress
- D.
States
Correct Answer
C. CongressExplanation
Congress has the power to create departments. This is because the Constitution grants Congress the authority to establish and organize executive departments. Congress can pass legislation to create new departments or modify existing ones. This power is derived from the principle of separation of powers, where Congress is responsible for making laws and overseeing the executive branch. By creating departments, Congress can ensure the efficient functioning of the government and address the needs of the nation.Rate this question:
-
- 8.
Which of the following is the best example of a civil servant?
- A.
Post office carrier
- B.
Secretary of State
- C.
Ted Cruz as a member of the Energy Committee
- D.
Special interests
Correct Answer
A. Post office carrierExplanation
A post office carrier is the best example of a civil servant because they are employed by the government to provide essential services to the public. They are responsible for delivering mail and packages to individuals and businesses, ensuring the smooth functioning of the postal system. Civil servants are typically government employees who work in various sectors to serve the public interest, and a post office carrier fits this description by directly serving the community and carrying out important government functions.Rate this question:
-
- 9.
Which of the following represent an increase in the size of the bureaucracy?
- A.
Progressive Era
- B.
New Deal
- C.
Gulf Wars
- D.
All Of The Above
Correct Answer
D. All Of The AboveExplanation
The correct answer is "All Of The Above". The Progressive Era, the New Deal, and the Gulf Wars all represent periods in history where the size of the bureaucracy increased. During the Progressive Era, government agencies and regulations were expanded to address social and economic issues. The New Deal implemented numerous government programs and agencies to combat the Great Depression. The Gulf Wars led to an expansion of military and intelligence agencies involved in national security and defense. Therefore, all three options represent instances of increased bureaucracy.Rate this question:
-
- 10.
Which of the following is a way the legislative branch can check the powers of the bureaucracy?
- A.
Fire civil servants
- B.
Defund programs
- C.
Impeach the president
- D.
Declare bureaucratic actions unconstitutional
Correct Answer
B. Defund programsExplanation
The legislative branch can check the powers of the bureaucracy by defunding programs. This means that they can withhold or reduce funding for specific programs or agencies, limiting their ability to carry out certain actions or initiatives. By controlling the budget, the legislative branch can exert oversight and influence over the bureaucracy, ensuring that they are accountable and responsive to the priorities of the elected representatives.Rate this question:
-
Back to top