Democracy and participation

Question 1

Direct democracy

Answer 1

Where citizens speak and vote on all issues with majority view becoming law

Question 2

Direct democracy advantages

Answer 2

Will ensure that will of the people is clear so government has a clear directive
People more likely to participate if they believe opinion will make a difference
Purest form of democracy, doesn’t involve any interpretation
Citizens become educated in political issues- Alternative Vote Referendum 2011- educated lots of people
All votes count equally

Question 3

Direct democracy disadvantages

Answer 3

Time consuming
Costly- EU referendum estimated £142m
Can be manipulated eg with remain/leave
Voters may not be experts

Question 4

Representative democracy

Answer 4

Where all citizens elect a representative to make decisions on their behalf. Elections must have multiple parties running

Question 5

Representative democracy advantages

Answer 5

Expertise- representatives are better informed
Can ensure all in society are represented- direct democracy have many different demands
Public can hold representatives accountable
Practical and beneficial

Question 6

Representative democracy disadvantages

Answer 6

Low participation levels
Inaccurate representation- 29% of MPS are privately, but only 7% of UK is
Self-interest, representatives may choose to act in own interest

Question 7

Consideration for reform

Answer 7

Participation crisis- falling turnout since 1979- 76% and 2001 59%
Democratic deficit- less trust in politicians- expenses scandal 2009

Question 8

Votes at 16?

Answer 8

Politically informed. Turnout 18-24 very low so might make young people more engaged
16-17 year olds can get married, pay tax, serve in army but not vote?
Balance conservatism
Too young
Lower stake
Excessively radical

Question 9

Give prisoners the vote?

Answer 9

Rehabilitation- say on what society they return too
Human right
Disregard for the law
Owe a debt

Question 10

Causal pressure group

Answer 10

Seeks to promote a specific cause and seek to advance that cause by raising awareness and influencing public opinion, Just stop oil

Question 11

Sectional pressure group

Answer 11

Represents a section of a community or society, typically individuals with some profession, seek to advance interests in that section eg BMA

Question 12

Insider pressure group

Answer 12

Likely to be consulted by the government about their cause- have more influence

Question 13

Outsider pressure group

Answer 13

Unlikely/ not consulted by government about their cause

Question 14

Methods used by pressure groups

Answer 14

Lobbying
Personal support
Direct Action
Illegal action
Judical review