Why is it necessary to understand the definition of democracy? Give 5 points
Answers
Explanation:
Protecting the interests of citizens. People get the chance to vote on the key issues affecting their country or can elect representatives to make these decisions. In the USA, the federal government allows members of each state to elect an official representative for their state to protect their interests at a higher government level.
Promoting equality. One principle of democracy is that all people are equal in the eyes of the law, and every person gets a vote. For example, Canada has a universal franchise decree in the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, which explicitly allows every citizen of Canada the right to vote in any Canadian election.
Preventing abuse of power. In democracies, people in authority are usually elected by people who vote them in. They are therefore responsible for carrying out the will of those who elected them. If they misuse their position, they won’t be re-elected.
Creating stability. Democracies have rules and laws that provide stability and protect human rights (see our guide on Understanding human rights to find out more). Democratic governments have time to make changes that are in the interests of everyone.
Answer:
The word ‘democracy’ comes from a Greek which means ‘rule by the people.’ It’s used to describe a system of government where power is held by the citizens. They can impact important decisions, either directly or through the people they elect.
Democracy is based on freedom and equality between all people. It’s often described as the ‘rule of the majority’, as important decisions are based on the votes of the people. This can either be:
Through direct democracy. Everyone gets the chance to vote on the outcome of a decision. An example is the Brexit referendum in 2016.
Through representative democracy. People vote to elect officials to make decisions to reflect the wishes of the people, such as the US Congress and UK Parliament.
Democracies should protect the best interests of the people, regardless of their race, gender, sexuality, religion or political opinion.