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Questions and Answers
In a representative democracy, citizens directly make decisions about laws and policies.
In a representative democracy, citizens directly make decisions about laws and policies.
False
What is a key feature of democracy that ensures leaders are chosen in a fair manner?
What is a key feature of democracy that ensures leaders are chosen in a fair manner?
What term describes the system where government and citizens are subject to and accountable under the law?
What term describes the system where government and citizens are subject to and accountable under the law?
Rule of Law
In a __________ democracy, emphasis is placed on public deliberation and discussion.
In a __________ democracy, emphasis is placed on public deliberation and discussion.
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Match the following challenges to democracy with their descriptions:
Match the following challenges to democracy with their descriptions:
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Which of the following best describes liberal democracy?
Which of the following best describes liberal democracy?
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What defines a direct democracy?
What defines a direct democracy?
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Equal application and enforcement of the law is a principle of the rule of law.
Equal application and enforcement of the law is a principle of the rule of law.
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Study Notes
Democratic Politics
Definition of Democracy
- A system of government where power is held by the people, either directly or through elected representatives
- Based on principles of equality, freedom, and protection of individual rights
Key Features of Democracy
- Free and Fair Elections: Regular, competitive elections where citizens can choose their leaders
- Separation of Powers: Division of government into legislative, executive, and judicial branches to prevent abuse of power
- Protection of Individual Rights: Guaranteed freedoms, such as speech, assembly, and religion, protected by a constitution or bill of rights
- Rule of Law: Government and citizens are subject to the law, with equal application and enforcement
- Participation and Inclusion: Active participation of citizens in the political process, with opportunities for all groups to engage and contribute
Types of Democracy
- Direct Democracy: Citizens make decisions directly, often through referendums or town hall meetings
- Representative Democracy: Citizens elect representatives to make decisions on their behalf
- Liberal Democracy: Combination of representative democracy and protection of individual rights and freedoms
- Deliberative Democracy: Emphasis on public deliberation and discussion to reach collective decisions
Challenges to Democracy
- Voter Apathy: Low voter turnout and disengagement from the political process
- Inequality and Exclusion: Disproportionate representation and influence of certain groups, such as the wealthy or powerful
- Populism and Authoritarianism: Erosion of democratic institutions and principles, often through charismatic leaders or nationalist sentiment
- Globalization and International Pressures: External influences on domestic politics, potentially undermining democratic sovereignty
Definition and Principles of Democracy
- A democratic system of government is characterized by power being held by the people, either directly or through elected representatives.
- Democracy is based on principles of equality, freedom, and protection of individual rights.
Essential Features of Democracy
- Free and Fair Elections: Regular, competitive elections are held where citizens can choose their leaders, ensuring accountability and representation.
- Separation of Powers: The government is divided into legislative, executive, and judicial branches to prevent abuse of power and ensure checks and balances.
- Protection of Individual Rights: Guaranteed freedoms, such as speech, assembly, and religion, are protected by a constitution or bill of rights, ensuring citizens' autonomy.
- Rule of Law: Both the government and citizens are subject to the law, with equal application and enforcement, maintaining social order and justice.
- Participation and Inclusion: Active participation of citizens in the political process is encouraged, with opportunities for all groups to engage and contribute, fostering a sense of ownership and responsibility.
Types of Democratic Systems
- Direct Democracy: Citizens make decisions directly, often through referendums or town hall meetings, allowing for immediate citizen participation.
- Representative Democracy: Citizens elect representatives to make decisions on their behalf, providing a more efficient and practical means of governance.
- Liberal Democracy: This system combines representative democracy with protection of individual rights and freedoms, ensuring a balance between governance and personal autonomy.
- Deliberative Democracy: This approach emphasizes public deliberation and discussion to reach collective decisions, encouraging active citizen engagement and informed decision-making.
Challenges Facing Democratic Systems
- Voter Apathy: Low voter turnout and disengagement from the political process can undermine the legitimacy and effectiveness of democratic institutions.
- Inequality and Exclusion: Disproportionate representation and influence of certain groups, such as the wealthy or powerful, can lead to unfair outcomes and undermine democratic principles.
- Populism and Authoritarianism: The erosion of democratic institutions and principles, often through charismatic leaders or nationalist sentiment, can threaten the very foundations of democracy.
- Globalization and International Pressures: External influences on domestic politics, such as global economic pressures or international norms, can potentially undermine democratic sovereignty and autonomy.
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Description
Test your knowledge of democracy, its principles, and key features such as free and fair elections and separation of powers.
