Chapter 1 - 3/7 - How democratic is the UK? Flashcards
What 10 features commonly apply to a democratic society?
- Peaceful transition of power.
- Free elections.
- Fair elections.
- Widespread participation.
- Freedom of expression and information.
- Freedom of association.
- Protection of rights and liberties.
- Rule of law.
- Independently judiciary.
- Limited government and constitutionalism.
What is needed for ‘free’ elections?
- Anyone can stand.
- All adults can vote.
- A secret ballot.
What is the rule of law?
Everyone is treated equally under the law and no one is above the law.
What does the rule of law ensure?
Limited government
What is needed to enforce the rule of law?
An independent judiciary.
What does democratic deficit mean?
The term used to refer to the features of the political system that fall short of the criteria for a true democracy.
Why might the UK not be considered to have free elections?
The existence of the unelected House of Lords.
Why might the UK not be considered to have fair elections?
The FPTP system used for general elections leads to disproportionate results and many wasted votes, with governments elected with a small proportion of the popular vote.
Why might the UK not have a free press?
Many news outlets are owned by a few large and powerful companies, such as News International.
Why can we say the UK has a strong protection of rights and liberties?
- Signed up to the EConventionHR enforced by the ECourtHR.
- House of Lords protects rights.
- Independent judiciary.
Why might rights and liberties be undermined in the UK?
Parliament is sovereign.
Why might the UK not have limited government?
- No codified constitution.
- Parliamentary sovereignty means government power can be increased.
