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Questions and Answers
What are the key characteristics that define democracy?
Democracy is characterized by rule by consent and the conduct of free and fair elections.
How does participative democracy differ from representative democracy?
Participative democracy emphasizes direct involvement of citizens in decision-making, while representative democracy relies on elected officials to make decisions on behalf of the people.
What role do political thinkers play in shaping the study of politics?
Political thinkers contribute foundational theories and concepts that help define various political ideologies and influence political discourse.
Explain the concept of pluralist democracy.
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What is meant by the term 'elite power' in the context of democracy?
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Study Notes
Derivation of Politics
- Politics is a complex process of power and influence. It examines how decisions are made in various spheres like government, society, and international relations.
Approaches to the Study of Politics
- Science Approach: This approach utilizes scientific methods to study political phenomena. It seeks to explain political behavior through observation, data analysis, and hypothesis testing.
Democracy
- A system of government where the supreme power is vested in the people and exercised by them directly or indirectly through a system of representation, usually involving periodic free and fair elections.
Study of the Organs of the Modern Approach
- Examines the institutions and structures that govern a democracy, such as legislatures, executives, judiciaries and their respective functions, and their interactions in shaping policy and governance.
Traditional Approach
- Emphasizes the historical evolution of democratic institutions and concepts. It examines the origins and development of democracy across different periods and cultures.
Political Thinkers - Name
Historical
- Focuses on the ideas and contributions of influential political figures throughout history, analyzing their theories, philosophies, and impact on political thought and practices.
Types of Democracies
Democracy
- Defined by rule by consent, as the people choose their leaders, and by free and fair elections, which ensure that everyone's vote has equal value and is not subject to bias.
Participative Democracy
- Encourages active involvement of citizens in decision-making processes. Promotes civic engagement and direct influence over public policy.
Pluralist Democracy
- Characterized by a decentralized power structure with multiple groups competing for influence and representation. It is based on the acceptance of diversity and accommodation of different interests.
Direct Democracy
- Allows citizens to vote directly on laws and policies. Emphasizes popular sovereignty and individual participation.
Indirect Democracy
- Also known as representative democracy, where citizens elect representatives to make decisions on their behalf. It is viewed as more practical than direct democracy, especially in large populations and complex societies.
Elite Power
- Acknowledges that political power or influence may be concentrated in the hands of a few individuals, groups, or organizations. This can be due to economic wealth, social status, or other advantages.
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Description
This quiz explores the foundations of politics, examining the complex processes of power, influence, and decision-making. It delves into different approaches to the study of politics including scientific methods and traditional historical perspectives, while also analyzing democracy and its institutional framework.
