Democracy and Participation Flashcards
What is the definition of Direct Democracy?
A form of democracy in which people decide on policy initiatives directly as opposed to indirectly through their elected representatives. Votes take place on specific questions. For example, the 2016 EU referendum.
What is the definition of Representative Democracy?
A system of democracy in which people vote for elected representatives; for example, in local and general elections. Elected representatives then make decisions on the people’s behalf.
What is the definition of Suffrage?
The right to vote. Universal suffrage effectively equates to democracy.
What is the definition of Participation?
The various ways that people can get involved in the political process. These can range in scale from standing for elected office to signing an e-petition. The most central form of participation is voting in elections.
What is the definition of Partisan Dealignment?
The process whereby individuals become less partisan (a core voter/supporter for a party, cause or person) and predictable in supporting a particular political party.
