Evaluate The Argument That Direct Democracy Is Superior To Representative Democracy

Question 1

P1 Agree: Involved In Decision Making

Answer 1

1. Empowers citizens directly – gives people real influence over decisions. Boosts participation & engagement – higher turnout + political awareness. Fulfils democratic ideals – “rule by the people” in its purest form.
2. Scottish Indy Ref (2014):
   Turnout: 84.6% (incl. 16–17 y/o voters). Informed debate on economy, Trident, independence
3. Brexit Ref (2016):Turnout: 72.2% Engaged disillusioned voters, raised awareness on sovereignty & trade. Compared to General Elections:. Lower turnout – e.g., 2019: 68%, 2001: 58%. Less than average between 45-97 76%.
4. P commissioned a Climate Assembly 2019 108 members. Produced a detailed report, some have been reflected in policy, advancing the ban on the sale of new petrol.

Question 2

P1: Disagree Open to Manipulation and Rep is Practical

Answer 2

1. Voter manipulation risk – persuasive figures (demagogues) can mislead public opinion. 2016 EU Referendum (Brexit):Misleading claims, e.g., “£350m/week to EU → NHS” bus slogan. Misinformation arguably swayed votes. Plus the claim that Turkey was on the verge of joining the EU.
2. Impractical for modern governance. Too slow/inflexible for fast decisions (e.g., COVID-19 response). Not feasible for large, complex state.
3. Representative democracy advantage: MPs are experienced, full-time professionals. Less vulnerable to misinformation. Able to balance expert advice with public opinion
4. Blending models: MPs can still consult constituents directly. Example: Reform UK MP Rupert Lowe held local vote on assisted dying (75% support) → voted accordingly on End of Life Bill (2024)

Question 3

P2: Agree More Representative

Answer 3

1. All votes count equally – one person, one vote. Campaigns must appeal to all voters, not just targeted groups. Leads to higher voter turnout in referendums (people feel their vote matters).
2. Vote inequality: Smaller constituencies = votes count more
   Larger constituencies = votes count less
   Safe seats: Outcomes predictable → lower turnout. Parties don’t focus campaigns there
3. Marginal seats: High voter influence → more turnout & campaign focus. Thanet South, Kent – always won by party that wins the general election

Question 4

P2: Disagree Tyranny of the Majority

Answer 4

1. Majority rule = minority disregard. Direct democracy is majoritarian. Can ignore views of large minorities, especially on divisive issues.
2. Less than 50% of population voted to leave (when turnout is considered). Yet, a hard Brexit was pursued by the government. Many Remainers/supporters of a softer Brexit felt ignored.
3. 45% of Scottish people voted for independence, 62% of Scotland and 56% of NI voted to Remain.
4. MPs represent diverse views, including minority interests. Encourages pluralism – decisions made through debate & compromise. Elected professionals consider long-term impacts & protect minority rights

Question 5

P3: Agree Rep Dem they follow their own interests

Answer 5

1. Flaws in representative democracy:. MPs often act in self-interest, not in the interest of constituents. Party loyalty > public representation due to whipping system. Career ambitions discourage rebellion against party line.
2. 49% (2024 YouGov/Sky) say they “almost never” trust government to act in national interest (up from 26% in 2019). 23 by-elections since 2019 due to misconduct, incl. lobbying scandals like Scott Benton (Blackpool South).
3. 2024 ‘Freebiegate’ → Starmer accused of cronyism after £16K worth of gifts from donor Lord Alli
   Public suspicion of political favours in return for access

Question 6

P3: Disagree Rep Dem Allows for accountability

Answer 6

1. MPs can be voted out for poor performance. Encourages responsiveness to constituents’ needs. Strong MP-constituency link: MPs handle casework, weekly surgeries, and correspondence. FPTP encourages personal accountability.
2. Infected Blood Scandal (Dec 2023):22 Tory MPs rebelled to back Labour amendment for faster compensation. Rebelled against a 3-line whip → shows local pressure & conscience. Caroline Nokes acted due to victims in Romsey & Southampton North
3. 2 Tory MPs defected to Labour post-2019 due to policy concerns
   Dan Poulter (April 2024):NHS doctor → defected due to NHS policy failures under Tories
   Acted based on lived experience and principles
4. MPs act on their own professional judgement, not just delegates.