What is Democracy 9 Social Science — Revision Notes
Democracy is a system of government where power rests with the people exercised through voting and representation. It is based on principles of equality, f
TL;DR: Democracy is a system of government where power rests with the people exercised through voting and representation. It is based on principles of equali…
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Democracy is a system of government where power rests with the people exercised through voting and representation. It is based on principles of equality, f
Meaning and Principles of Democracy
- Democracy means rule by the people through free and fair elections at regular intervals
- Principles include equality before law, protection of individual rights, and peaceful transfer of power
- Citizens have freedom of speech, expression, and association to participate in governance
- Majority rule balanced by minority protection ensures protection of all groups
Forms of Democracy
- Direct democracy citizens participate directly in decision-making like ancient Athens
- Representative democracy citizens elect representatives to make decisions on their behalf
- Parliamentary democracy legislative body is supreme and executive answers to legislature
- Presidential democracy separation of powers between executive and legislative branches
Features of Democratic Governance
- Universal adult suffrage gives voting rights to all adults regardless of property or education
- Periodic elections allow citizens to choose representatives and hold government accountable
- Constitutional framework limits government power and protects fundamental rights of citizens
- Independent judiciary interprets laws and protects constitutional rights and rule of law
Democracy in Practice
- Separation of powers prevents concentration of power in any single branch or person
- Press freedom enables media to report on government and educate public on issues
- Civil society organizations mobilize citizens around issues and hold government accountable
- Debate and discussion on policy allow different views to be heard and considered
Key Terms
- Democracy: System of government where power rests with people exercised through voting and representation
- Suffrage: Right to vote in elections and political decision-making processes
- Constitution: Written document outlining structure of government and protecting fundamental rights of citizens
- Accountability: Responsibility of government to answer to people for its actions and policies
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the key features of a democratic system?
Key features include universal suffrage, periodic elections, constitutional limits on power, protection of rights, independent judiciary, and separation of powers.
How is representative democracy different from direct democracy?
In representative democracy, citizens elect representatives to make decisions on their behalf. In direct democracy, citizens participate directly in all decisions.
More 9 Social Science Revision Notes
- French Revolution
- Nazism and Rise of Hitler
- Physical Features of India
- Drainage
- Climate
- Constitutional Design
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