Arguments for and against democracy

Elections give people power to choose and change government. Exam tip: treat elections as people's power.

Open discussion can make decisions more thoughtful. Exam tip: treat open discussion as a democratic advantage.

In a democracy, decisions are taken after discussion, debate, and consideration of different views. Critics therefore argue that excessive debate may delay decision-making. Options B, C, and D describe the absence of key democratic features: citizens’ rights, regular elections, and the right to choose the government. Exam tip: connect “too much debate” with delay in decision-making.

Democracy gives political importance to every citizen. Exam tip: connect dignity with respect and voice.

In a democracy, political authority ultimately belongs to the people. Citizens use elections to choose representatives and to decide whether an existing government deserves another term. If people are dissatisfied, they can vote for another party or candidate, so a government can be peacefully removed without a coup or hereditary change. This makes public consent central to democratic government.

The question asks who has the power to change the government. The people exercise this power through regular, free, and fair elections, rather than through the command of a king, army, or wealthy class. A king may rule in a monarchy, and an army may seize power in a dictatorship, but neither represents democratic choice. Therefore, option A, The people, is correct.

Frequent change may create instability in policies. Exam tip: treat instability as a criticism of democracy.

Due to accountability government faces people's questions. Exam tip: connect accountability with questioning.

Consultation and discussion can increase time. Exam tip: understand long process as a criticism of democracy.

Rights protect citizens' freedom and dignity. Exam tip: treat rights as a benefit of democracy.

Some argue that in electoral politics leaders may focus more on winning than service. Exam tip: understand this as criticism.

In democracy correction is possible through discussion and elections. Exam tip: treat correction ability as a positive argument.

Democracy gives a chance to solve differences through dialogue. Exam tip: understand dialogue as a benefit of democracy.

In democracy discussion occurs before decisions so time may be taken. Exam tip: understand lack of quick decisions as criticism.

Elections are a peaceful method to change government. Exam tip: write peaceful change as a strong argument for democracy.

People's views can make decisions more useful. Exam tip: remember the relation between views and needs.

Corruption is raised as a criticism of democracy. Exam tip: place it under arguments against democracy.

In democracy elections and criticism make rulers accountable. Exam tip: connect control with accountability.

Voting makes ordinary citizens participants in choosing government. Exam tip: connect voting with participation.

Democracy gives citizens equal respect and voice. Exam tip: understand dignity as a moral argument.

Delay is a common argument against democracy. Exam tip: keep positive and negative arguments separate.