How effective is the UK in performing key features of democracy? Flashcards
Name 10 features of a democracy
Free + fair elections, representation, legitimacy, participation, accountability, rule of law, smooth transition of power, civil rights, education and information
Explain what free and fair elections means
Elections should be free and fair, everyone should be given an equal say in the selection of their representatives.
Explain what representation means
Those who are elected, must act in the best interests of the citizens in their area and represent their views.
Explain what legitimacy is
Government and legislatures have legitimacy or legal authority as they have been freely chose by the people in elections.
What is participation?
People get involved and contribute to politics and policy making in numerous ways.
Define accountability
Those elected to government are held accountable for their actions which should be transparent, open and free from corruption.
What is the rule of law?
Laws apply equally to everyone including the government (ultra vires). Anyone who breaks the law is punished.
What is the smooth transition of power?
There is a formal process for handing power from one government to the next. This takes place peacefully without violence or mass protests.
What are civil rights?
The rights of the people are protected and defended by the law through the courts.
What does education and information mean?
The public are well educated politically and have access to accurate information from trustworthy sources. This enables effective and informed participation in the political proces
