Arguments for and against democracy

Democracy may take time but deliberation can make decisions more balanced. In exams write both benefit and criticism.

If a wrong government is chosen people can change it next time. In exams write corrective capacity as a strength of democracy.

Money power can make rich candidates or groups more influential. In exams connect money power with criticism of democracy.

Electoral politics can sometimes become power-centred. In exams remember the relation between promises and accountability.

Debate shows weaknesses and alternatives in decisions. In exams connect criticism with democracy's corrective capacity.

The correct answer is B: democratic legitimacy. Legitimacy means that people regard a government’s authority as rightful and acceptable. In a democracy, that authority is connected to the people’s consent. Reasoning step by step: citizens participate and express approval through democratic procedures; representatives receive power from that public choice; without consent, rule may continue by force or habit, but its democratic basis becomes weak; therefore democratic legitimacy is the argument weakened by rule without consent. Option A is wrong because corruption may become more likely or less likely, but the question is about the basis of rightful authority. Option B is correct because legitimacy directly depends on public consent. Option C is wrong because slow decision-making concerns speed, not the source of authority. Option D is wrong because leader expertise does not itself create popular approval. Exam cue: consent is the foundation of legitimacy.

This is a criticism related to voters' knowledge. In exams identify it as a limitation of democracy.

Democracy treats citizens not merely as subjects but as participants. In exams connect dignity with participation.

The direct answer is A: capacity for correction and accountability. A democratic government is expected to listen to criticism, explain its actions and correct policies when evidence shows that a decision is harmful or ineffective. The fact chain is: citizens criticise a policy; the government hears the criticism; it reviews the policy; it changes or improves it; it becomes answerable for its results. Option A is correct because this process shows both correction and accountability. Option B, hereditary rule, means power passes through a family and has nothing to do with responding to criticism. Option C, secret administration, suggests decisions are hidden from citizens, which reduces accountability. Option D, citizens' silence, is the opposite of criticism and participation. Criticism does not automatically mean every demand must be accepted, but it gives government information and pressure to improve. Exam cue: criticism that leads to review shows a democratic strength.

Healthy competition makes leaders responsive to people. In exams remember both sides of competition.

Race for power can become a criticism of democratic politics. In exams write the difference between public service and power race.

Misinformation can affect voters' choices. In exams understand quality of information as a challenge of democracy.

Deliberation considers more interests in a decision. In exams write the balance between delay and acceptability.

Democracy directs differences toward dialogue rather than violence. In exams write conflict resolution as a benefit.

Elections force leaders to pay attention to people's needs. In exams remember electoral accountability.

Public opinion may sometimes be influenced by emotions or misinformation. In exams write it as a challenge of democracy.

Public debate helps identify mistakes and alternatives. In exams connect debate with decision quality.

Hearing many groups can make a decision more inclusive. In exams write inclusiveness as a benefit of democracy.

Corruption weakens electoral fairness and representation. In exams treat corruption as a serious criticism.

The right to change government is the basis of democratic accountability. In exams write change of government and accountability together.

Democracy values citizens' voice and participation. In exams connect dignity with participation.

Lack of expertise is a challenge but democracy also has correction mechanisms. In exams give a balanced answer.

The direct answer is A: watch over the government and accountability. In a democracy, the opposition is not merely a group that disagrees; it examines government actions, asks questions, points out mistakes, and presents alternative policies. Step by step: the ruling party makes decisions; the opposition studies those decisions; it brings problems before the legislature and the public; public discussion and questioning pressure the government to explain and correct its work. Thus opposition criticism helps keep power responsible. Option A is correct because monitoring and accountability are important democratic benefits. Option B is wrong because opposition criticism does not end elections; opposition parties normally compete in elections. Option C is wrong because criticism helps protect, not end, citizens’ rights. Option D is wrong because opposition activity gives people more political involvement rather than removing them. Remember: opposition means a democratic check on government, not an enemy of democracy.

In coalition many parties' agreement can slow decisions. In exams connect it with criticism of decision process.

Democracy is not only voting but also discussion and participation. In exams write broader citizen role.