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"please complete in point-form; each is out of 10 marks, marked for the

content and thorough quality of your answer
1. What are the origins of law in general? To what degree do you think
laws are influenced by societal values? Explain using anything we
studied and/or discussed in class to support your answer.
2. Explain the concept of Constitutional Monarchy in Canada as it
relates to our system of government and Canada's Head of State.
Do you think Canada should follow the lead of others and do away
with this system of Constitutional Monarchy?

User Erin Call
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1 Answer

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1. Origins of law in general:
- Customary law: Development of rules based on long-standing traditions and practices within a community or society.
- Religious law: Derived from religious texts and beliefs, guiding behavior and moral conduct.
- Common law: Evolved from judicial decisions and precedents set by courts over time.
- Statutory law: Laws enacted by legislatures or governing bodies.
- Civil law: Derived from written codes and statutes that outline legal rights and responsibilities.

Influence of societal values on laws:
- Laws are influenced by societal values to a significant degree.
- Society's moral, ethical, and cultural values shape legal principles and regulations.
- Laws often reflect societal norms, beliefs, and expectations regarding behavior and justice.
- Examples discussed in class can include laws on human rights, environmental protection, and discrimination, which reflect changing societal values and demands for justice.

2. Constitutional Monarchy in Canada:
- Canada has a constitutional monarchy, where the monarch (currently Queen Elizabeth II) is the symbolic head of state.
- The monarchy's powers are limited and largely ceremonial, with the government and decision-making powers vested in elected representatives.
- The Constitution Act of 1867 establishes the framework for Canada's system of government, which includes the monarchy as an integral part.
- The monarch's role includes functions such as granting royal assent to legislation and representing the continuity and unity of the state.

Opinion on Canada's Constitutional Monarchy:
- Whether Canada should do away with the system of Constitutional Monarchy is a subjective question.
- Some arguments in favor of maintaining it include:
- Cultural and historical significance: The monarchy represents Canada's ties to its colonial past and its identity as a Commonwealth realm.
- Symbolic unity: The monarchy provides a unifying symbol and a sense of continuity.
- Stability: The constitutional framework and the separation of powers have worked effectively in Canada.

- Arguments for considering a different system:
- Democratic principles: Some argue for a fully elected head of state as a representation of democratic values and accountability.
- Cost: Critics argue that maintaining a monarchy incurs additional expenses.
- Independence: Moving away from a monarchy could be seen as a step towards complete sovereignty and independence.

Ultimately, whether Canada should follow the lead of others and do away with the system of Constitutional Monarchy depends on various perspectives and considerations.
User ErickBest
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