1. Identity the importance of and the role played by the executive in policy making in four of the political systems we have studied this summer. Please include in your answer a discussion of the principal reasons why they are important in those systems' respective political processes and the factors which make for their importance..

2. Compare the form and process of decision-making in four of the political processes that we have explored this summer. Where is power located in these political system? What roles do parties play in the decision-making process? Which system is better organized to use political power effectively to solve problems? Be certain to include in your answer a consideration of (A) which political system can the more quickly respond to policy problems and (B) which political system is the more democratic in policy making. Make your own reasoning as explicit as possible and give examples whenever possible.

3. To what extent are lower levels of government (below the central government), courts, and bureaucracies in the POLICY MAKING processes of four of the countries we have examined this summer. In which political system are they the most important, and why? In which political systems are they the least important, and why? Please explain your reasoning fully and illustrate it with examples where possible. Be very specific.