Texas Surveyors Practice Exam

What is the term for the system of sovereign ownership of all lands?

1. Capitalism

2. Feudalism

3. Socialism

4. Democracy

The correct answer is: Feudalism

Feudalism is the correct answer because it refers to a social system prevalent in medieval Europe, where the ownership of land was central to the economy and society. Under this system, the king, or sovereign, was considered the ultimate owner of all land. In return for land and protection, vassals would pledge loyalty and provide service to their lord, establishing a rigid hierarchy in which land rights were tied to social roles and obligations. In contrast, capitalism focuses on private ownership and control of property and resources, incentive structures driven by market forces, and profit motives. Socialism emphasizes collective or governmental ownership and distribution of resources, aiming for equal access and benefits for all individuals within society. Democracy, on the other hand, refers to a system of government where power rests with the people, typically through elected representatives, and does not inherently dictate land ownership structures. Understanding feudalism as it relates to land ownership helps to clarify the historical context in which land rights and social responsibilities were defined, leading to the eventual evolution of modern systems of property ownership and governance.