Democracy in Scotland Flashcards
What rights do people living in Scotland have?
The right to vote,
The right to freedom of assembly,
The right to protest,
The right to freedom of speech.
How can people living in a democracy participate?
Voting, Standing as a candidate, Protesting, Contacting their representative, Participating in an election campaign.
How can people participate in an election campaign?
Distribute leaflets and posters,
Canvassing,
Driving people to the polls,
contacting people on election day.
What are the advantages of the first past the post system?
Leads to a stronger government,
Direct link between representative and constituents.
What are the disadvantages of the first past the post system?
Leads to “safe seats”,
Candidate that wins usually gets less than 50% of the vote.
What are the advantages of the additional member system?
Gives more opportunities to smaller parties,
tends to give better representation to women and ethnic minorities,
Retains the links between MSPs and constituents.
What are the disadvantages of the additional member system?
Tends to produce weaker governments,
Gives to much power to party leaders.
How does an MSP represent voters in parliament?
Voting on Bills, Take part in a committee, Contact government minister responsible for area of policy, Representation outside parliament, Take part in a debate.
What powers have been devolved to Scotland?
Scotland has power over
Power over health,
Power over justice,
Power over education.
What powers have been reserved from Scotland?
Scotland does not have power over, still power of UK
Power over Immigration,
Power over Defence,
Power over benefits and welfare.
What impacts do the media have on elections and democracy?
Impact on Elections,
Impact on Attitudes,
Impact on Representatives.
What are the features of a democratic political society?
Free and fair elections,
Citizen Participation,
Majority rule, Minority rights,
Equal Protection under the law.
Why is their an under representation of women and ethnic minorities within parliament?
Unfair working environment,
lack of role models,
racism and sexism.
What things can Pressure groups influence?
Influence public opinion,
Influence politicians,
influence elections.
What are the roles of a committee?
Amending legislation,
Creating legislation,
Holding the government to account.
