Arguments for and against democracy

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

Opposition can bring government mistakes forward. In exams connect opposition with accountability.

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

Democracy needs discussion and watchfulness along with voting. In exams understand citizens' role broadly.

Active participation keeps pressure on government for improvement. In exams write participation and correction together.

Electoral pressure can push leaders toward popular but less useful policies. In exams write short-termism as a criticism.

Criticism can be a strength of democracy but misinformation is a challenge. In exams distinguish criticism from misleading information.

Equal political status is a basis of dignity and equality in democracy. In exams write equality as an argument in favour.

Possibility of change in power puts pressure of accountability on leaders. In exams connect power change with accountability.

Consultation can make decisions balanced and acceptable. In exams write quality and acceptance together.

Excessive power struggle can weaken policy and public interest. In exams treat excessive politics as a criticism.

Citizens' role is a basis of dignity in democracy. In exams write dignity and participation together.

Discussion takes time but can reduce hasty mistakes. In exams look at both speed and quality of process.

Open debate can bring emotional opinion under reasoned examination. In exams write debate as a corrective element.

In a democracy, the legitimacy of government comes from the consent of the people, expressed through elections and voting. Therefore, people’s vote is given final importance. The army, a dynasty, or wealth cannot provide democratic legitimacy to a government. Exam tip: Remember that the basis of legitimate authority in democracy is ‘consent of the people’.

Corruption is a challenge but democracy has a path of accountability and change. In exams write a balanced answer.

Democracy needs active citizen participation along with voting. In exams write broader participation.

Equal vote means that every adult citizen’s vote has the same value, regardless of wealth, education, caste, religion, or social position. It gives each person equal importance in political decision-making and therefore strengthens individual dignity. Option B is contrary to this principle because democracy does not give richer people extra votes or greater voting weight. Exam tip: Link ‘one person, one vote, one value’ with political equality and citizen dignity.

Public criticism can push government to improve policy. In exams write criticism as a tool of accountability.

This criticism is based on lack of expert knowledge. In exams treat it as a limitation not total rejection.