Democracy and Political participation Flashcards
Democracy
A very general description of various political systems, which are organised in the best interests of the people.
Liberal Democracy
It is expected that citizens should influence decisions, or make decisions themselves. It is also expected that government should be accountable, in various ways, to the people
Legitimacy
Refers to the degree to which the state or its government can be considered to have the right to exercise power. A state or govt can be said to be legitimate if it has a valid claim to rule
Authority
The right to exercise power rather than the exercise of power itself Authority is granted to rulers and those in power by those over whom the power is to be exercised. Without authority power becomes mere force.
Representation
The political idea is that the people elect or appoint representatives to make decisions on their behalf, rather than making those decisions themselves. On a social level, it implies that political institutions should have a membership that is broadly a social cross section of society in general
Direct democracy
A political system whereby the people take part themselves in the running of the country and deciding laws e.g. referendums, public consultation and focus groups.
Representative democracy
Representatives elected by people who take control of decision-making, as it is more practical and the representatives are better informed.
Parliamentary democracy
A parliamentary democracy means that the political power is held by an elected parliament representing the people.
Political participation
Opportunities for, and tendencies of, the people to become involved in the political process. At a minimum level this will involve voting, but may also involve active work in political parties and pressure groups. At the highest level it implies standing for public office
Referendum
A popular vote where the people are asked to determine an important political or constitutional issue.
Initiative
A process where citizens can call a referendum, normally by collecting a predetermined number of signatures on a petition.
Recall
A device that allows citizens to unseat an elected official before the end of their term in office.
Franchise
The right to vote as established by parliamentary statute.
Turnout
The percentage of registered voters who cast a ballot in a given election.
Subsidiarity
The principle that decisions should be taken at the lowest tier of government possible.
