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Chapter Analysis
Beginner20 pages • EnglishQuick Summary
The chapter 'What is Democracy? Why Democracy?' explores the meaning and significance of democracy, highlighting its features such as elections by the people and majority rule while maintaining political equality. It discusses the advantages democracy holds over non-democratic regimes, such as better decision-making and protecting citizens' rights. Through discussions and examples, it stresses democratic values and principles as vital to achieving political stability and addressing social issues.
Key Topics
- •Definition of Democracy
- •Features of Democratic Governments
- •Advantages of Democracy
- •Democracy and Decision-making
- •Political Equality
- •Democracy and Citizens' Rights
- •Criticisms of Democracy
- •The Role of Opposition and Free Press
Learning Objectives
- ✓Understand the core principles that define a democracy
- ✓Distinguish between democratic and non-democratic governments
- ✓Identify the significance of free and fair elections
- ✓Evaluate the importance of protecting citizens' rights
- ✓Recognize the role of democratic institutions and practices
- ✓Critically analyze the strengths and weaknesses of democracy
Questions in Chapter
Here is some information about four countries. Based on this information, how would you classify each of these countries. Write ‘democratic’, ‘undemocratic’ or ‘not sure’ against each of these.
Page 15
Each of these statements contains a democratic and an undemocratic element. Write out the two separately for each statement.
Page 16
Which of these is not a valid reason for arguing that there is a lesser possibility of famine in a democratic country?
Page 16
There are 40 villages in a district where the government has made no provision for drinking water. These villagers met and considered many methods of forcing the government to respond to their need. Which of these is not a democratic method?
Page 16
Write a response to the following arguments against democracy.
Page 16
Additional Practice Questions
What are some of the common features of democratic governments?
easyAnswer: Democratic governments commonly feature free and fair elections, rule of law, respect for rights, equal representation, and majority rule while protecting minority interests.
How does democracy enhance the dignity of citizens?
mediumAnswer: Democracy enhances dignity by recognizing every citizen's rights and giving them an equal say in governance, treating the poorest and least educated with the same respect as the rich and educated.
Discuss the relationship between democracy and decision-making.
mediumAnswer: Democracy involves multiple stakeholders in decision-making, leading to better, more inclusive decisions through consultations, discussions, and a system of checks and balances.
Explain why free press and opposition parties are crucial in a democracy.
hardAnswer: A free press ensures accountability by informing citizens and critiquing the government, while opposition parties provide alternative choices for voters and hold those in power to account.
What can citizens do to make their country more democratic?
hardAnswer: Citizens can actively participate in the political process, stay informed, vote responsibly, engage in public discourse, and hold their representatives accountable.