7. Write a response to the following arguments against democracy:
A. The army is the most disciplined and corruption-free organisation in the country. Therefore the army should rule the country.
B. Rule of the majority means the rule of ignorant people. What we need is the rule of the wise, even if they are in small numbers.
C. If we want religious leaders to guide us in spiritual matters, why not invite them to guide us in politics as well. The country should be ruled by religious leaders.
Answers
A. The army is a disciplined organisation. However, it is unfair if an army rules, as the army was not chosen by the citizens and hence it will be an undemocratic practice.
B. Rule of the majority is not the rule of ignorant people. Wisdom is subjective, and the government is run by people who know law and order.
C. Religion and politics are two different things. While religion can guide someone towards religious affairs, it cannot be a guide anyone for politics, which is an important segment of a nation.
Answer:
Opposition parties can draw attention to hunger and starvation. Free press can report suffering from famine in different parts of the country. Government fears its defeat in the next elections. People are free to believe in and practise any religion. 6. There are 40 villages in a district where the government has made no provision for drinking water. These villagers met and considered many methods of forcing the government to respond to their need. Which of these is not a democratic method? Filing a case in the courts claiming that water is part of the right to life. Boycotting the next elections to give a message to all parties. Organising public meetings against the government’s policies. Paying money to government officials to get water.