Democracy Overview and Criticisms
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Questions and Answers

Explain why the rule of Myanmar's military, President Pinochet's regime in Chile, and President Nkrumah's rule in Ghana are not considered democratic.

These leaders were not chosen by the people. They did not have the support of the people like a democratic leader would.

How does the example of elections in Mexico from 1980 onwards illustrate a lack of true democracy?

While Mexico held elections, the same party, PRI, consistently won, suggesting rigged elections and lack of freedom for the opposition. This contradicts the necessary element of a fair and open election process in a democracy.

Explain the fundamental principle of political equality upon which democracy is based.

Democracy is based on every adult citizen having one vote, and each vote carrying equal value. This ensures that every citizen has an equal say in the decision-making process.

Why is a democratic government accountable not only to the people but also to independent officials?

<p>Democratic governments are held accountable to independent officials like judges, auditors, and regulatory commissions to prevent abuse of power and ensure transparency and fairness.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Identify one argument presented against democracy, focusing on the nature of political competition.

<p>One criticism is that democracy is characterized by power play and competition that creates instability, potentially undermining moral principles.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Explain why the need for consultation in a democracy might be seen as a weakness.

<p>The need to consult a wide range of people in a democracy can lead to delays in decision-making, as consensus building can be time-consuming and complex.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Summarize the criticism against democracy that questions the ability of ordinary people to make sound decisions.

<p>One criticism suggests that ordinary people are not equipped to make informed decisions for the good of society, therefore decision-making should not be entrusted to them.</p> Signup and view all the answers

In your own words, explain why President Musharraf's rule in Pakistan is not considered democratic.

<p>Musharraf's rule in Pakistan was not considered democratic because he had the power to dismiss elected representatives, demonstrating that ultimate power rested with the army and not the people, a fundamental violation of democratic principles.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Definition of Democracy

A government form where rulers are elected by the people.

Final Decision Power

In democracy, final power rests with the elected representatives.

Free and Fair Elections

Elections must allow current rulers a fair chance of losing and ensure transparency.

Equal Voting Principle

Every adult citizen has one vote of equal value in a democracy.

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Limits of Democratic Government

Democratic governments operate within constitutional rights and are accountable to residents.

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Criticism of Democracy

Democracy faces criticism for instability and political competition.

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Electoral Corruption

Corruption that arises during elections, affecting the democratic process.

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People's Decision-making Capability

The belief that ordinary people's choices may not align with their best interests.

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Study Notes

Democracy

  • Democracy is a form of government where rulers are elected by the people.
  • Countries like Myanmar (army rules), Chile (Pinochet's rule), and Ghana (Nkrumah's rule) were not democratic, as the rulers were not chosen by the people
  • Hereditary rulers like those in Nepal or Saudi Arabia are also not democratic
  • In a democracy, final decisions must be made by elected representatives, not by the army or other groups.
  • A fair democracy requires free and fair elections where holders of current power have a chance of losing
  • Mexico's example shows that having elections every six years, does not guarantee a free and fair democracy if the same party wins repeatedly

Why Democracy? - Criticisms

  • Democracy is seen as a power struggle, lacking moral principles.
  • Frequent changes in leaders can create instability.
  • The need to consult many people can lead to delays in decision making
  • Elected leaders may not always act in the best interests of the people
  • Corruption, related to electoral processes, can affect democracy
  • Ordinary people might lack the knowledge to make good decisions for themselves.

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Chapter 2: Political Science - What is Democracy?

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Explore the concept of democracy, including its definition and the essential components that make a democracy function effectively, such as free and fair elections. This quiz also delves into the criticisms surrounding democratic systems and the challenges they face in real-world scenarios.

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