democracy

Question 1

what is a democracy

Answer 1

“people rule”

Question 2

key functions of democracy - COPRAP

Answer 2

Checks and balances - it isn’t possible for one branch of gov. to become all powerful
Openness - pluralism, open to all
Participation - must be possible for public to engage with political process
Representation - people must have their views represented in parliament
Accountability - gov. can be held accountable and removed if necessary
Protection of minorities - must have methods for protecting all people

Question 3

direct democracy

Answer 3

people make key decisions themselves - example Switzerland

Question 4

representative democracy

Answer 4

decisions are made by elected representatives - example UK

Question 5

signs of healthy democracy

Answer 5

• free/fair elections
• independent judiciary
• free media
• devolved govs
• pluralism
  referendums

Question 6

signs of unhealthy democracy

Answer 6

• FPTP
• HoL
• low turnout

Question 7

participation crisis stats

Answer 7

2024 - 60% turnout, Labour won with only 34% of vote share
- 15.5 million non voters in 2019
REF TURNOUTS:
- Scottish independence ref 2014 - 84.6%
- Alternative vote ref 2011 - 42%

Question 8

how can democracy be improved in the UK

Answer 8

1. change electoral system
   FPTP bad because of wasted votes, safe seats, unrewarding of minor parties
   AV - candidates are ranked.
2. reform HoL
   partially or completely electing the HoL would make Britain more democratic
   (Con party refuse reforms)
3. change way we vote
   compulsory voting and electronic voting can increase turnout

Question 9

people who cannot vote

Answer 9

• convicted prisoners
• members of HoL
• Royals
• Under 18s
• people convicted of election fraud
• those mentally incapacitated

Question 10

EDC voters

Answer 10

• 14% of the UK electorate is from an ethnic minority background
  operation black vote to encourage ethnic minorities to vote