What is Democracy? Why Democracy? Class 9 Notes Political Science (Civics) Chapter 1
Chapter: 1
What is Democracy? Why Democracy?
Democracy?
Democracy is a form of government in which the rulers are elected by the people.
Features Of Democracy
- In a democracy the final decision-making power must rest with those elected by the people.
- Elections offer a choice and fair opportunity to the people to change the current government.
- This choice and opportunity is available to everyone. Everyone should have one vote and every vote should have equal value.
- A democratic government rules within limits set by constitutional law and citizen’s right.
Why Democracy?
Arguments agains t Democracy
- Leaders keep changing in democracy. This leads to instability.
- Democracy is all about political competition and power play. There is no scope for morality.
- So many people have to be consulted in a democracy that it leads to delays.
- Ordinary people don’t know what is good for them; they should not decide anything.
- Elected leaders do not know the best interest of the people. It leads to bad decision.
- Democracy leads to corruption for it is based on electoral competition.
Arguments for Democracy
- A democratic government is a better government because it is more accountable form of government.
- Democracy improves the quality of decision-making.
- Democracy provides a method to deal with differences and conflicts.
- Democracy enhances the dignity of citizens.
- Democracy is better than other forms of government because it allows the people to correct their mistakes.
Broader Meanings Of Democracy
- The most common form that democracy takes in our times is that of a representative democracy where majority is allowed to take decisions on behalf of all the people.
- The majority of people rule through their elected representatives.
- A democratic decision involves consultation with and consent of all those who are affected by that decision.
