Democracy

Definition

Democracy is a political system in which the power to make decisions is vested in the people, who exercise that power directly or through elected representatives. It promotes participation, equality, and the protection of individual rights, fostering a government that is accountable to its citizens. Democratic systems often emphasize the importance of free and fair elections, where the electorate can choose their leaders and influence policies.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Democracy can take various forms, including direct democracy, where citizens vote on laws and policies directly, and representative democracy, where they elect officials to make those decisions on their behalf.
2. Key principles of democracy include majority rule, minority rights, the rule of law, and the separation of powers among branches of government.
3. The concept of democracy has evolved over time, with modern democracies emphasizing universal suffrage and equal participation for all citizens.
4. Democracies often rely on institutions such as independent judiciaries and free press to uphold democratic values and provide checks on government power.
5. Globalization has influenced democracy by promoting the spread of democratic ideals and practices, but also poses challenges through issues like authoritarianism and populism.

Review Questions

• How does the concept of democracy promote individual rights and freedoms within a society?
  • Democracy promotes individual rights and freedoms by ensuring that citizens have a voice in governance through mechanisms like free and fair elections. In a democratic system, civil liberties are protected, allowing individuals to express their opinions, assemble peacefully, and practice their religion freely. The emphasis on equality means that all citizens have the same rights under the law, fostering an environment where diverse viewpoints can coexist.
• Discuss the challenges democracies face in maintaining accountability and transparency in government operations.
  • Democracies face several challenges in maintaining accountability and transparency, including political corruption, misinformation, and voter apathy. Corruption can undermine public trust in elected officials and institutions, leading to disillusionment among citizens. Additionally, the rise of misinformation can distort public perceptions and affect informed decision-making. To combat these issues, strong institutions like independent media and judicial systems are crucial in holding governments accountable.
• Evaluate how globalization has impacted democratic movements around the world, both positively and negatively.
  • Globalization has significantly impacted democratic movements worldwide by facilitating the exchange of ideas and practices across borders. On the positive side, it has enabled activists to collaborate internationally, share strategies for promoting democracy, and apply pressure on authoritarian regimes. However, globalization also presents challenges such as the rise of populist movements that can exploit economic discontent or social divisions. This dual impact complicates the pursuit of democracy as nations navigate both opportunities for reform and threats to democratic stability.

Related terms

Republic: A form of democracy where the country is considered a 'public matter' and is not the private concern of rulers, often featuring elected officials representing the citizen body.

Civil Rights: The personal liberties that belong to an individual, ensuring their ability to participate fully in civic and political life without discrimination or repression.

Participatory Governance: An approach to democracy that emphasizes the active involvement of citizens in decision-making processes, enhancing transparency and accountability.