What is Democracy? Why Democracy? Class 9 Notes Political Science (Civics) Chapter 1

Chapter: 1

What is Democracy? Why Democracy?

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    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.