Democracy Flashcards
Direct and Representative democracy.
1) Advantage of DIRECT democracy.
It is rule by the majority.
2) Advantage of DIRECT democracy.
Purest form of democracy; legitimate decisions.
3) Advantage of DIRECT democracy.
People more inclined to support and respect decisions the public have chosen themselves.
4) Advantage of DIRECT democracy.
Large numbers of people will reach measured decisions.
5) Advantage of DIRECT democracy.
Decisions made by the people are entrenched and not so easy to turn over.
A) Advantage of REPRESENTATIVE democracy.
Minorities are protected by representatives as their voices are heard too.
B) Advantage of REPRESENTATIVE democracy.
Representatives are better educated than the public and are less likely to be swayed by emotion.
C) Advantage of REPRESENTATIVE democracy.
People should respect decisions made by those superior in judgement and knowledge.
D) Advantage of REPRESENTATIVE democracy.
Elected representatives understand more complex views and are reflective.
E) Advantage of REPRESENTATIVE democracy.
Elected representatives can be sensitive to changing situations.
PROBLEM:
Part of the legislature is not accountable.
SOLUTION:
Introduce a second chamber.
PROBLEM:
The representation of parties in Parliament is distorted.
SOLUTION:
Introduce a proportional electoral system.
PROBLEM:
Often low turnouts at elections.
SOLUTION:
Make voting compulsory.
PROBLEM:
There is a participation crisis in the UK.
SOLUTION:
Educate people more on citizenship.
