Representative Democracy

Question 1

Name 2 features of representative democracy and how it’s used in the uk

Answer 1

The election of representatives should be regular, competitive and secret and carried out without force and with universal adult suffrage. In the UK elections must be held every five years using first past the post. The vote is secret and results are legally binding.

Civil liberties must be protected such as the freedoms of assembly. Human rights act, 1998.

Question 2

Name 2 features of representative democracy and how it’s used in the UK

Answer 2

Elections must be contested by new political parties, such as labour, conservative Lib Dems green all contest elections.

Pressure groups should have the opportunity to put forward their views

Question 3

Name a fifth feature of representative democracy and how it’s used in the UK

Answer 3

An independent judiciary should exist in the UK, the judiciary is separate from the executive and legislative

Question 4

Two advantages of representative democracy

Answer 4

Professional politicians, make complex decisions
and minority views are considered and upheld

Question 5

Name, two other advantages of representative democracy

Answer 5

Elected politicians are held to count by the people

the people cannot be expected to have the time or interest to make important and regular decisions so I practical

Question 6

Name, two disadvantages of representative democracy

Answer 6

Citizens are disengaged from politics
There is no guarantee that representatives accurately reflect the views of those they claim to represent

Question 7

Name, two other disadvantages of representative democracy

Answer 7

Politicians are skilled at swerving, accountability and politicians are open to corruption and self interest