Lesson 3 and 4 - Direct democracy

Question 1

Democracy

Answer 1

The governing system where power is placed in the hands of the people.

Question 2

Direct Democracy

Answer 2

In direct democracy, the people decide on policies without any intermediary or representative

Question 3

Citizenship in Athens

Answer 3

citizenship was a status granted to individuals who met certain criteria, allowing them to participate in the city-state’s political and social life (voting in the assembly and holding a public office)

Question 4

Assembly

Answer 4

The assembly in Athens was a gathering of citizens where they could debate and vote on matters of public policy, legislation, and other important decisions

Question 5

Council of 500

Answer 5

a governing body in ancient Athens composed of 500 citizens chosen by lottery. It was responsible for preparing the agenda for the assembly and overseeing the city’s administration.

Question 6

Referendum

Answer 6

The direct vote by the council on a specific proposal or issue, often used to decide matters of public policy or constitutional amendments.

Question 7

Politics - definition

Answer 7

Politics refers to the activities, processes, and structures concerned with governance

Question 8

Tyranny of the Majority

Answer 8

the majority in a democracy or other group exercises power oppressively over the minority, disregarding their rights or interests.

Question 9

Assumptions for Direct Democracy

Answer 9

Assumptions for direct democracy include the belief in the capability and responsibility of citizens to make informed decisions about policies and governance.

Question 10

Consideration for Direct Democracy

Answer 10

Consideration for direct democracy involves ensuring widespread participation, access to information, in order to facilitate informed decision-making by citizens.

Question 11

When is the Direct Democracy contract void?

Answer 11

The direct democracy contract may become void if there is widespread disengagement among citizens, leading to decisions being made without adequate participation or consideration of diverse perspectives.

Question 12

Strengths of Direct Democracy

Answer 12

increased citizen engagement
transparency in decision-making
a stronger sense of political empowerment among the population.

Question 13

Weaknesses of Direct Democracy

Answer 13

the potential for majority tyranny, the risk of uninformed decision-making

Question 14

Case Study: Swiss Referendum on minarets - what does it reveal about Direct Democracy?

Answer 14

The Swiss Referendum on minarets showed a problem with direct democracy: the majority voted to ban minarets, which are Islamic religious structures. This decision raised worries because it seemed to limit the rights and freedom of the Muslim minority in Switzerland.