Democracy & Rule of Law

Question 1

Define democracy.

Answer 1

Democracy refers to a system of government that vests power in the people.

“A government by the people; for the people; of the people.”

Question 2

How does a democracy operate?

Answer 2

Originating from the Greek translation of ‘demos’ (people) and ‘kratos’ (power), a democracy empowers the people to elect their head of government.

Question 3

Explain the idea of a direct democracy.

Answer 3

Adhering to the concept of democracy, the difference of a direct democracy is its process of election.

Eligible citizens directly vote to Parliament.

Question 4

Why would a direct democracy be unpractical?

Answer 4

Direct democracy is only feasible in countries with low levels of citizenship such as in Ancient Athens.

Question 5

Explain the idea of a representative democracy.

Answer 5

Adhering to the concept of democracy, the difference of a representative democracy is its process of election.

The eligible people of an electorate (constituency e.g. WA) vote for a Member of Parliament (MP) whom will represent their views, values, and political interests in Parliament.

Question 6

Explain the idea of a liberal democracy.

Answer 6

Liberal democracy is a system of government combining the ideas of democracy and Constitutional Liberalism.

It is a representative democracy in which all the people are subject to the rule of law, moderated by a Constitution that emphasizes the protection of the rights and freedoms of individuals.

Question 7

With reference to liberal democracy, explain the concept of Rule of Law.

Answer 7

Rule of law refers to the idea that everyone is subject to the law, regardless of wealth, status. No one of power may circumvent the law.

This ensures that everyone’s political rights and freedoms are protected.

Question 8

How is Rule of Law achieved?

Answer 8

Rule of law is achieved, when:
1. Universality of Law - ‘no one is above the law’.
2. Laws should be known, clear, consistent, and coherent - people subject to the law should have an opportunity to know a law exists before it is applied.
3. Judicial independence - judges and courts cannot be manipulated to adjudicate in favor of those with power, and wealth.