4 Democracy and Legitimacy

Question 1

Why do states seek legitimacy according to Rousseau?

Answer 1

“The strongest is never strong enough unless her turns might into right and obedience into duty”

Question 2

In what two ways have revolutions not come about as Marx forecasted?

Answer 2

1 Tended to occur in relatively backward countries

2 Generally coups d’états rather than popular revolutions

Question 3

What’s the difference between direct and representative democracy?

Answer 3

Direct democracy involves citizens making decisions on policies and laws themselves, typically through public meetings (Athens) or referendums.

Representative democracy has citizens elect representatives who make decisions on their behalf.

Question 4

Who could participate in Athenian democracy?

Answer 4

Athenian-born free males over age of 20

Question 5

Three criticisms of democracy?

Answer 5

1 Generates conflict and polarisation, and may deepen tribal or ethnic tensions, particularly in developing world.

2 Culturally imperialist, based on intrinsically western notions of pluralism and competition.

3 Democratic decisions are popular ones, not good ones, as educated majority are often overwhelmed by uneducated masses.

Question 6

Ancient Athens: What were the two levels of government?

Answer 6

The Ecclesia (Assembly), to which all citizens belonged.

An executive Council (Boule) of 500 citizens

Question 7

Ancient Athens: How were public officials chosen?

Answer 7

On basis of lot or rota to ensure they constituted microcosm of larger citizenry.

Question 8

Ancient Athens: What was the main role of the Boule (Council)?

Answer 8

Set the agenda to vote for the Ecclesia.

Question 9

Ancient Athens:
Who belonged to the Ecclesia?

Answer 9

All Athenian-born free males over age of 20.

Question 10

Ancient Athens:
How often did the Ecclesia meet, and what did they do?

Answer 10

Around 40 times per year. Vote on laws and policy.

Question 11

Ancient Athens:
How were courts comprised?

Answer 11

Judiciary composed of large juries, up to 500 people, chosen by lot.

Question 12

Ancient Athens:
If a person was a threat to democracy, what happened?

Answer 12

Citizens could vote to ostracize (exile) them for ten years.

Question 13

Aristocracy etymology?

Answer 13

“Aristos,” meaning “best,” and “kratos,” meaning “power” or “rule.”

Question 14

One sinister reason why Athenians were able to devote themselves so wholeheartedly to politics?

Answer 14

Slavery took away the need for arduous labour