Direct Democracy - 12 Marker Flashcards
Law-Making - Point
Direct democracy means people are expected to take part in political decision-making, such as law-making, themselves
Law-Making - Explain
Achieved through referenda where voters make decisions on the issue
They don’t have to rely on politicians as a system of representative democracy & the may be constrained in parliament by party discipline
Theorists such as Plato have argued against its use on the grounds that the ‘masses’ don’t know what’s best for them
Many argue it may enhance the standing of direct democracy
Law-Making - Example
Swiss cantons provide opportunities for citizens to make political decisions directly
Law-Making - Analysis
As a consequence all decisions are legitimate as they’re made by the people
Law-Making - Rebuttal Point
An implication of this is if population is lacking in understanding of issues it means poor decision making could result
Law-Making - Rebuttal Example
Some states direct forms of decision making are offered such as California, voters decided to lower taxes but increased spending & this has caused state to have budget problems
Heightens Control - Point
A second key feature of direct democracy is that it heightens control of the citizens
Heightens Control - Explain
Known as a pure form of democracy where people are able to make decisions for themselves
Rousseau suggested MPs don’t make decisions based on constituents but their own self interest
Heightens Control - Example
Best way to do this is referenda, the case for many US states as they initiate a referendum when they want creating a better outcome for their views
Heightens Control - Analysis
Implication of direct democracy is no distinction between government & people
Contrast, direct democracy can be argued as impractical as there’s too many opinions & unworkable in many places
Educated Society - Point
A third feature of direct democracy is it creates a more educated political society
Educated Society - Explain
Regular participation in government creates a vibrant society
People care about the factors behind issues creating a more educated society & increasing voter turnout
Educated Society - Example
Media coverage of 2014 independence referendum highlighted main issues & made Scotland more aware
Educated Society - Analysis
Implication of direct democracy is can significantly enhance participation as referendum resulted in 85% voter turnout
Significant increase in political literacy due to majority turnout
Educated Society - Rebuttal Analysis
Consequence of direct democracy can be effective if used correctly
Political interest rose with all parties seeing an increase in membership
