Learning Objectives 2

Question 1

LO1

Distinguish between the two theories of democratic government used in political science: procedural and substantive

Answer 1

The procedural view of democracy emphasizes democratic processes. four procedural elements seem paramount: universal participation, political equality, majority rule, and government responsiveness to public opinion. substantive democratic theory focuses on the substance of policies rather than procedures. it holds that there are some rights that are so important that they should not be subject to being overturned by majority decision.. not surprisingly, procedural democracy can come into conflict with substantive democracy.

Question 2

LO2

consider how indirect democracy diverges from direct democracy

Answer 2

direct democracy allows individuals to participate in making policy themselves, such as through neighborhood government or state wide referenda. indirect democracy to be responsive to public opinion.

Question 3

LO3

compare and contrast the majoritarian and pluralist models of democracy

Answer 3

majoritarian model of democracy is built around majority rule as evidenced by elections.
pluralist democracy conceives of democracy as a competition between opposing groups in society. elite theorists believe that american government is dominated by a small set of wealthy individuals and large businesses.

Question 4

LO4

define the ways in which elite theory differs from pluralist democracy.

Answer 4

pluralism holds out the promise of democracy through the competition of interest groups representing various sectors of american society and commerce. elite theory claims that america is fundamentally undemocratic. our governmental process is held to be dominated by an oligarchy built on wealth and business connections.

Question 5

LO5

evaluate the challenges facing countries trying to move toward a democratic form of government

Answer 5

although the number democracies in the world increased for a time, this trend has leveled off. the process of democratization is difficult, and many democratizing countries fail and return to some from of authoritarianism. we compare the validity of majoritarian and pluralist models of democracy and conclude that the united states is a mix of both, but closer to pluralism.