Democracy Quiz: Key Features and Principles

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Questions and Answers

Which of the following is NOT a key feature of a democratic system?

Monopoly (correct)

Political equality

Transparency

Accountability

Democracy always guarantees equality for all citizens regardless of social factors.

False

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 ______.

voting Signup and view all the answers

Match the following outcomes of democracy with their descriptions:

Promotes equality = Enhances individual dignity through representation Improves decision making = Facilitates public discussion and feedback Reduces tyranny of the majority = Protects minority rights Encourages stability = Avoids large-scale violent conflicts Signup and view all the answers

What is a challenge that can arise in a democratic system?

Corruption Signup and view all the answers

Democracy tends to promote ______ and stability by preventing large-scale violent conflicts.

peace Signup and view all the answers

What does the term 'political equality' mean in the context of democracy?

All citizens have equal rights and opportunities to participate in the political system. Signup and view all the answers

Frequent elections in democracies can lead to political stability.

False Signup and view all the answers

What does 'tolerance' refer to in a democratic system?

Respecting and accommodating diverse opinions Signup and view all the answers

What is a key characteristic of democratic systems when compared to non-democratic systems?

Free and fair elections are common Signup and view all the answers

In a democratic system, the government is accountable to the people.

True Signup and view all the answers

Name one mechanism through which democracies accommodate diverse interests.

Free and fair elections Signup and view all the answers

Democracies ensure equal rights before the law, regardless of _____ or wealth.

social status Signup and view all the answers

Match the following concepts with their definitions:

Free and fair elections = Allowing citizens to choose their representatives Political pluralism = Diverse opinions published and expressed freely Independent judiciary = Mechanism for legal dispute resolution Organized opposition = Allows citizens to express concerns against government Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a way democracy promotes equality?

Suppression of minority views Signup and view all the answers

Democracy tends to reduce inequality in society.

True Signup and view all the answers

What is one disadvantage of democratic decision-making compared to autocratic systems?

Slower decision-making process Signup and view all the answers

In non-democratic systems, power is concentrated in the hands of a _____ individual or small group.

single Signup and view all the answers

What does the term 'political pluralism' refer to?

Different opinions and viewpoints expressed freely Signup and view all the answers

Signup and view all the answers

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.