Chapter - 5 outcomes of democracy
Meaning of Democracy:
- Democracy is a form of government in which the rulers are elected by the people.
- It is based on the idea that:
- Power should rest with the people,
- Citizens have the right to participate in decision-making,
- Everyone is equal in the eyes of the law.
Definition of Democracy:
Abraham Lincoln's:- “Democracy is government of the people, by the people, and for the people.
How Do We Assess Democracy’s Outcomes?
1. Democracy Produces an Accountable, Responsive, and Legitimate Government
- Democracy is based on public discussion and consent.
- Democracy provide responsive government because it is formed by elected representative of people.
- Democracy gives it citizens the right to information about government functioning.
- Democracy genrate trust among citizens.
- Democracy ensures that decision making will be based on norms and procedures.
- People have the right to choose their leaders and can hold them accountable.
- Democratic governments are legitimate — they are elected by the people and follow the law.
2. Democracy and Economic Growth and Development:- Economic growth can be defined as an increase in the value of goods and services produced in an economy over a period of time.
- Democracy does not guarantee fast economic growth.
- Economic development depends on:- Country's population size, global situation,cooperation other countries, economic prioities adopted by the country.
- But it accommodates the needs of the people better than other forms of government.
- The growth rate of poor democracies is usually slightly better than that of poor dictatorships.
3. Reduction of Inequality and Poverty:-
- Democracy is based on:- 1- Political equality, 2- Economic equality.
- Democracy is expected to reduce inequality and poverty, but:
- In practice, a small number of rich people have more power and wealth.
- Democracies have not been very successful in reducing economic disparities.
4. Accommodation of Social Diversity
- Democracy helps in peacefully handling social differences.
- In the eye of law all citizens are equal.
- Democracy is not simply rule by majority opinion.
- It allows various communities to live together and respects minority rights.
- A democratic government tries to resolve conflicts through discussions, not violence.
5. Dignity and Freedom of the Citizens
- Universal adult franchise.
- Democracy gives people a sense of freedom, dignity, and self-respect.
- Equality and freedom are the foundation of democracy.
- "Each and every citizen of the country has the right to seek justice from the judiciary if they face exploitation."
- Especially for women and disadvantaged groups, democracy has improved status and respect.
- Equal status and equal opportunity.
Practice questions
Short Answer Type Questions (2-3 Marks):
- What is meant by "accountable government" in a democracy?
- How does democracy accommodate social diversity?
- Give two reasons why democracy is considered better than dictatorship.
- What are the expected economic outcomes of democracy?
- How does democracy enhance the dignity of citizens?
Long Answer Type Questions (5-6 Marks):
- Explain any five outcomes of democracy.
- How can democracy lead to the reduction of inequality and poverty? Give examples.
- How do we assess the outcomes of democracy? Explain with examples.
- Democracy is seen as a better form of government. Explain how it ensures dignity and freedom of citizens.
- Describe the role of public opinion in making democracy accountable.
MCQs (Multiple Choice Questions)
1. Which one of the following is an expected outcome of democracy?
A. Increase in military power
B. Equal distribution of wealth
C. Accountable, responsive, and legitimate government
D. Fast decision-making
Answer: C. Accountable, responsive, and legitimate government
2. Democracy is based on the idea of:
A. Hereditary power
B. Freedom and equality
C. Centralized control
D. Religious domination
Answer: B. Freedom and equality
3. Which one of the following is a sign of a healthy democracy?
A. People have no right to question the government
B. Rulers are elected through free and fair elections
C. Judiciary is controlled by the executive
D. Military rules the country
Answer: B. Rulers are elected through free and fair elections
4. In actual practice, democracies:
A. Have eliminated poverty
B. Have successfully reduced all economic inequalities
C. Are not very successful in reducing economic inequality
D. Guarantee equal income for all
Answer: C. Are not very successful in reducing economic inequality
5. Which of the following best indicates the success of a democracy?
A. Elimination of all political parties
B. Increasing economic inequalities
C. Regular and fair elections
D. Rule by a single strong leader
Answer: C. Regular and fair elections
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