Ways in which citizens can influence decision making Flashcards
Paragraph 1:
Voting
Paragraph 1 KU:
- Can elect Mps, MSPs, MEPs, locsl councillors… gives them a voice in parliament
- Most important way that a citizen can influence decision making
Paragraph 1 Analysis:
-Most important however sometimes flawed and unfair
-FPTP used in UK very unproportional and many do not get fair representation
-UKIP received many votes and only won one seat
+AMS more proportional
+Overall can be very effective and important… however inequality and unfairness does exist
Paragraph 2:
E-petitions
Paragraph 2 KU:
- E-petitons are another way that people can influence decision making
- Now e-petion committees in westminster
- They can be setup and signatures collected all online.
Paragraph 2 Analysis:
+Very effective as very quick to gather support
+Also effective as must be debated if gets enough signatures
-However does not guarantee change and can be easily dismissed
-Overall, quick at raisin awareness but doesn’t guarantee change at all.
Paragraph 3:
Pressure Groups
Paragraph 3 KU:
- Group of like minded people passing the govt for change
- Two forms, outsider and insider.
Paragraph 3 Analysis:
+Insider groups have the ear of the government, good influence on decision making as everyone interest is to move forward
- However outsider groups can perform illegal actions and cause damage for the cause
- Overall, pressure groups can have an influence on decision making, however this is mainly true for insider groups as ousiders lose support and have a backwards affect
Paragraph 4:
Joining a political party
Paragraph 4 KU:
- Can help with campaign… deliver leaflets, take part in rallies
- Can even run as a candidate for their party
Paragraph 4 Analysis:
+This can be effective as u may be elected and become a part of the decision making process
- Can be drawbacks as if you lose then lots of money and time wasted
+Therefore overall, can be very positive but can also be risky as if you lose then you get nothing.
