Democracy & Participation Flashcards
(25 cards)
What is democracy?
A system of government where power is vested in the people, who rule either directly or through freely elected representatives.
True or False: Direct democracy allows citizens to vote on laws directly.
True
Fill in the blank: A representative democracy is characterized by _____ elected officials.
freely
What is meant by ‘political participation’?
The ways in which citizens engage in the political process, including voting, campaigning, and advocacy.
What is suffrage?
The right to vote in political elections.
Multiple Choice: Which of the following is NOT a form of political participation? A) Voting B) Protesting C) Watching TV
C) Watching TV
What does ‘electoral participation’ refer to?
The involvement of citizens in elections, primarily through voting.
True or False: Voter apathy can negatively affect democracy.
True
What is a referendum?
A direct vote in which an entire electorate is invited to vote on a particular proposal and can result in the adoption of new laws.
Fill in the blank: _____ is the principle that every citizen has an equal right to participate in the political process.
Political equality
What is the role of political parties in a democracy?
To organize elections, represent diverse interests, and provide choices for voters.
Multiple Choice: Which of the following is a key function of political parties? A) Enforcing laws B) Creating policies C) Appointing judges
B) Creating policies
What does ‘civil society’ refer to?
The aggregate of non-governmental organizations and institutions that manifest the interests and will of citizens.
True or False: Interest groups are a type of civil society organization.
True
What is the significance of voter registration?
It is a process that ensures only eligible citizens can vote, thus maintaining the integrity of elections.
Fill in the blank: _____ is the practice of seeking to influence politicians or public officials on specific issues.
Lobbying
What is the term for the practice of drawing electoral district boundaries?
Gerrymandering
Multiple Choice: Which of the following can enhance political participation? A) Voter ID laws B) Civic education C) Increased taxes
B) Civic education
What does ‘political culture’ encompass?
The set of attitudes, beliefs, and sentiments that shape the political behavior of a society.
True or False: Apathy can lead to lower voter turnout.
True
What is ‘deliberative democracy’?
A form of democracy that emphasizes the importance of discussion and deliberation in decision-making.
Fill in the blank: _____ is the principle that government should be accountable to the people.
Accountability
What does ‘majoritarianism’ mean?
A political theory that asserts that the majority’s opinion should prevail in decision-making.
Multiple Choice: Which of the following is a challenge to democracy? A) Free press B) Corruption C) Transparency
B) Corruption
