What are the different forms of power sharing in modern domecracies ? Give an example of each of these.
Answers
In a modern democracy, power-sharing arrangements can take many forms.
Horizontal distribution of power: In this, the power is shared among different organs of government such as the legislature, executive, and judiciary. This type of power sharing is prevalent in India.
Federal government (vertical distribution of power): In this, the power can be shared among governments at different levels. This type of power sharing is prevalent in the USA.
Power sharing among different social groups: Power can be shared among social groups such as linguistic and religious groups. For instance, Community government’ in Belgium.
Other types of power-sharing: Power sharing is also seen in political parties, pressure groups and movements control or influence those in power.
Terms you need to know
Majoritarian: It is a belief that the majority community should be able to rule a country in whichever way it wants.
Community Government: A type of Government which is elected by people belonging to one language community is called community government.
Prudential: It involves decision making based on prudence, or on a careful calculation of gains and losses.
Checks and Balances: In this system, each organ of the government checks the others which results in a balance of power among various institutions
Reserved Constituencies: In this, the constituencies are reserved in the Assemblies and the Parliament for minorities in order to give them a fair share in power.
Coalition government: When the alliance of two or more parties gets elected and forms a government it is known as the Coalition Government
