Understanding Democracy

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Questions and Answers

What is the definition of democracy?

Democracy is a system of government where people exercise political power through periodic elections of leaders.

What are the two main types of democracy?

The two main types of democracy are Direct Democracy and Indirect (Representative) Democracy.

Explain the concept of Representative Democracy.

Representative Democracy is a system where citizens elect leaders to represent them for a fixed term through periodic elections.

Identify two characteristics of democracy.

Two characteristics of democracy are respect for the rule of law and periodic, free, and fair elections. Signup and view all the answers

What role does opposition play in a democratic state?

Opposition is tolerated in a democratic state as it contributes to efficient governance and diverse viewpoints. Signup and view all the answers

List one feature of Representative Democracy.

One feature of Representative Democracy is the appointment of an independent body to conduct elections. Signup and view all the answers

How does democracy promote national development?

Democracy promotes national development by upholding the rule of law. Signup and view all the answers

What is the importance of effective popular participation in democracy?

Effective popular participation is crucial as it involves citizens in governance and decision-making processes. Signup and view all the answers

What are two key reasons why Nigeria adopted representative democracy?

The large electoral size due to population and the complex state structure of the Nigerian government. Signup and view all the answers

Name one factor that has retarded the growth of democracy in Nigeria.

Electoral malpractice. Signup and view all the answers

Define the rule of law in your own words.

The rule of law is the principle that all citizens are subject to the law and held accountable, ensuring no one is above the law. Signup and view all the answers

What does the principle of equality before the law entail?

It means that all individuals, regardless of status, are treated equally and fairly by the legal system. Signup and view all the answers

List two factors necessary for ensuring the rule of law.

Independence of judiciary and freedom of the press. Signup and view all the answers

Explain the principle of fair hearing within the context of the rule of law.

It ensures that anyone arrested has the right to a fair trial through an impartial legal process. Signup and view all the answers

How does the rule of law contribute to human liberty?

The rule of law guarantees personal liberty by ensuring that no one can be arbitrarily detained or punished without legal due process. Signup and view all the answers

Why is mass literacy considered a factor for the rule of law?

Mass literacy enables citizens to understand their rights and the laws governing them, promoting informed participation in democracy. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Democracy

Definition: A system of government where people exercise political power through periodic elections of leaders by themselves or their representatives.
Origin: Ancient Greece
Quote: "Government of the people, by the people, for the people" - Abraham Lincoln

Types of Democracy

Direct Democracy: All citizens meet to govern the country.
Indirect Democracy (Representative Democracy): Citizens elect representatives to govern on their behalf. Examples: Nigeria, Ghana, America, South Africa.

Characteristics of Democracy

Respect for the rule of law: No one is above the law.
Constitutional Government: Power adapted to the interests of the people, maintaining individual liberty.
Effective popular participation: Citizens actively involved in socio-political activities.
Periodic, regular, free and fair elections:
Respect for fundamental human rights: Individual rights are promoted and guaranteed.
Tolerance of opposition: Opposition is tolerated for efficient governance.

Representative Democracy

Features:
- Free and fair elections.
- Independent body to conduct elections (e.g. INEC in Nigeria).
- Periodic elections.
- Respect for fundamental human rights.
- Respect for the rule of law.

Democracy and National Development

Contributions:
- Promotes rule of law.
- Engenders peace and security.
- Generates employment.
- Strengthens freedom of expression and human rights.
- Promotes poverty alleviation.
- Promotes political stability.

Why Nigeria Adopted Representative Democracy

Reasons:
- Large electoral size due to high population.
- Complex state structure of the Nigerian government.
- Large territorial size of the country.
- Greater political participation.
- Promotes accountability.
- To maintain international relations with other democratic countries.

Factors Hindering Democracy in Nigeria

Challenges:
- Electoral malpractice.
- Lack of proper political education.
- High level of illiteracy.
- Bribery and corruption.
- High cost of running democracy.
- Political apathy.

The Rule of Law

Definition: Supremacy of law over every citizen in a political system.
Concept popularized by: Professor Dicey.

Principles of the Rule of Law

Equality before the law: No discrimination based on race, sex, ethnicity, religion, color, birth, or other status.
Principle of impartiality: No favoritism, punishment only after proven guilty in court.
Principle of supremacy of the law: No one is above the law.
Principle of fair hearing: Fair trial process for anyone arrested.
Right to appeal: Individuals can appeal unsatisfactory court judgments.
Legal limitations of the actions of government: Government actions are subject to legal restrictions.

Factors Necessary for the Rule of Law

Essentials:
- Independence of the judiciary.
- Freedom of the press.
- Transparency of the law.
- Mass literacy.
- Access to appeal.

Rule of Law and Human Liberty

Liberty defined: The ability or willingness to act without affecting others' freedom.
Rule of law role: Guarantees individual liberty through:
- Equality before the law.
- Protection against arbitrary power.
- Enforcement of fundamental rights.

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Description

This quiz explores the definition, origin, and types of democracy, including direct and representative forms. It also highlights the key characteristics that define a democratic system of governance, emphasizing the role of citizens in the political process.