Questions and Answers
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 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.
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Match the following challenges to democracy with their descriptions:
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Which of the following best describes liberal democracy?
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What defines a direct democracy?
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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.
