Disadvantages of direct democracy

Question 1

Name the first disadvantage of direct democracy?

Answer 1

• it is not practical
• the classical idea of direct democracy in a modern state is not possible with the geographic and population sizes of countries
• this means that a system of direct democracy would be unresponsive and impractical.

Question 2

What is a second disadvantage of direct democracy?

Answer 2

• tyranny of the majority
• minority groups and interest may have their needs and concerns overlooked when decisions are based on majority votes
• the will of the minority are not mediated by parliamentary institutions (48% people voted against Brexit)

Question 3

Name a third disadvantage of direct democracy

Answer 3

• low turnout rate
• a small group of people make decisions which affect everyone
• this undermines the legitimacy of the decisions being made.

Question 4

Name a fourth disadvantage of direct democracy

Answer 4

• emotional response

- people can vote on the basis of emotion rather than the practical consideration of major issues.