Podcast
Questions and Answers
Which of the following is NOT a key feature of a democratic system?
Which of the following is NOT a key feature of a democratic system?
Democracy always guarantees equality for all citizens regardless of social factors.
Democracy always guarantees equality for all citizens regardless of social factors.
False (B)
Name one outcome of democracy that enhances the dignity of individuals.
Name one outcome of democracy that enhances the dignity of individuals.
The ability to choose representatives that align with their interests.
In a democratic system, citizens can participate in decision-making processes through ______.
In a democratic system, citizens can participate in decision-making processes through ______.
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Match the following outcomes of democracy with their descriptions:
Match the following outcomes of democracy with their descriptions:
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What is a challenge that can arise in a democratic system?
What is a challenge that can arise in a democratic system?
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Democracy tends to promote ______ and stability by preventing large-scale violent conflicts.
Democracy tends to promote ______ and stability by preventing large-scale violent conflicts.
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What does the term 'political equality' mean in the context of democracy?
What does the term 'political equality' mean in the context of democracy?
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Frequent elections in democracies can lead to political stability.
Frequent elections in democracies can lead to political stability.
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What does 'tolerance' refer to in a democratic system?
What does 'tolerance' refer to in a democratic system?
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What is a key characteristic of democratic systems when compared to non-democratic systems?
What is a key characteristic of democratic systems when compared to non-democratic systems?
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In a democratic system, the government is accountable to the people.
In a democratic system, the government is accountable to the people.
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Name one mechanism through which democracies accommodate diverse interests.
Name one mechanism through which democracies accommodate diverse interests.
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Democracies ensure equal rights before the law, regardless of _____ or wealth.
Democracies ensure equal rights before the law, regardless of _____ or wealth.
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Match the following concepts with their definitions:
Match the following concepts with their definitions:
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Which of the following is NOT a way democracy promotes equality?
Which of the following is NOT a way democracy promotes equality?
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Democracy tends to reduce inequality in society.
Democracy tends to reduce inequality in society.
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What is one disadvantage of democratic decision-making compared to autocratic systems?
What is one disadvantage of democratic decision-making compared to autocratic systems?
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In non-democratic systems, power is concentrated in the hands of a _____ individual or small group.
In non-democratic systems, power is concentrated in the hands of a _____ individual or small group.
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What does the term 'political pluralism' refer to?
What does the term 'political pluralism' refer to?
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Flashcards
Democracy
Democracy
A system of government where the people hold the power, either directly or through elected representatives.
Accountability in Democracy
Accountability in Democracy
Elected officials are responsible for their actions and decisions to the people.
Transparency in Democracy
Transparency in Democracy
Government actions and processes are open to public scrutiny, allowing for transparency and accountability.
Rule of Law in Democracy
Rule of Law in Democracy
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Participation in Democracy
Participation in Democracy
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Equality and Dignity in Democracy
Equality and Dignity in Democracy
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Peace and Stability in Democracy
Peace and Stability in Democracy
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Improved Decision Making in Democracy
Improved Decision Making in Democracy
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Quality of Life in Democracy
Quality of Life in Democracy
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Protection of Minorities in Democracy
Protection of Minorities in Democracy
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Democratic elections
Democratic elections
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Government accountability
Government accountability
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Multiple Political Parties
Multiple Political Parties
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Freedom of expression
Freedom of expression
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Equality before the law
Equality before the law
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Rule of Law
Rule of Law
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Independent Judiciary
Independent Judiciary
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Democratic decision-making
Democratic decision-making
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Representation of diverse interests
Representation of diverse interests
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Social justice
Social justice
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Study Notes
Introduction to Democracy
- Democracy is a system of governance where supreme power resides with the people.
- It involves direct or indirect representation through periodic free elections.
Key Features of Democracy
- Accountability: Representatives are answerable to the people.
- Transparency: Government actions are open to public review.
- Rule of Law: Everyone, including the government, is subject to the law.
- Participation: Citizens actively engage in decision-making through various means (e.g., voting, protests).
- Tolerance: Different views are respected and accommodated.
- Political Equality: All citizens have equal rights and opportunities to participate politically.
Outcomes of Democracy
- Promotes equality and individual dignity.
- Allows citizens to choose representatives aligned with their interests.
- Fosters peace and stability by reducing large-scale conflicts, contributing to economic growth.
- Enhances decision-making through public debate, feedback, and political competition.
- Improves the quality of life and living standards by reducing inequality through participation.
- Reduces the risk of a "tyranny of the majority," improving social stability.
Challenges of Democracy
- Inequality: Social and economic disparities can persist despite democratic principles.
- Corruption: Elected officials may abuse power or engage in corrupt practices.
- Tyranny of the Majority: Decision-making might favor the majority over minority interests.
- Instability: Elections and shifting alliances can cause policy changes and instability, potentially influenced by external factors like economic crises.
- Lack of Awareness/Education: Effective democratic participation requires informed citizens.
- Slow Decision-Making: Democratic processes can be slower than autocratic ones, due to consensus-building.
Accommodating Diverse Interests in Democracies
- Free and Fair Elections: Multiple parties and candidates represent diverse viewpoints.
- Organized Opposition: Citizens can voice concerns and propose alternatives.
- Political and Media Pluralism: Diverse opinions and viewpoints can freely be expressed.
- Independent Judiciary: Resolves disputes and protects minority rights through courts.
- Representative Mechanisms: Constituencies and regions have representation at legislative levels.
Democracy and Equality
- Equal voting rights are fundamental to democratic equality.
- Democracies provide avenues for various interests to be heard.
- Equality before the law is crucial, regardless of social status or wealth.
- Democracies aim for social justice and reduced inequality by better representing citizen needs.
Democratic vs. Non-Democratic Systems
- Democracies rely on free, fair elections to select representatives. Non-democratic systems concentrate power in a single entity or a small group.
- Democratic governments are accountable to the people; non-democratic ones are not.
- Democracies protect diverse opinions and rights; non-democratic systems often suppress dissent.
- Democracies have independent judiciaries and uphold the rule of law, whereas non-democratic systems often lack these.
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Description
Test your knowledge about democracy and its core principles! This quiz covers essential features such as accountability, transparency, rule of law, and more. Understand how these elements contribute to a functional democratic system.