Key Vocabulary Flashcards
(14 cards)
What do franchise and suffrage refer to?
Franchise and suffrage both refer to the ability/right to vote in public elections.
What is a participation crisis?
A lack of engagement by a significant number of citizens in the political process either by choosing not to vote or to join political parties.
What is a democratic deficit?
A flaw in the democratic process where decisions are taken by people who lack legitimacy, not having been appointed with sufficient democratic input or subject to accountability.
What is pluralist democracy?
A type of democracy in which a government makes decisions as a result of the interplay of various ideas and contrasting arguments from competing groups and organisations.
What is representative democracy?
A more modern form of democracy through which an individual selects a person (and/or political party) to act on their behalf to exercise political choice.
What is direct democracy?
All individuals express their opinions themselves and not through representatives.
What does legitimacy mean in a democratic context?
The rightful use of power in accordance with pre-set criteria or widely-held agreements, such as a government’s right to rule.
What is a lobbyist?
A lobbyist is paid by clients to try to influence the government.
What do lobbyists aim to influence?
Lobbyists aim to influence legislation, particularly when it is under consideration.
What is the role of think tanks?
A body of experts brought together to collectively focus on a certain topic to investigate and offer solutions.
What types of issues do think tanks address?
Think tanks address seemingly intractable economic, social, or political issues.
What is government Competency?
The perceived ability of the governing party to manage the affairs of the state well/effectively
What is a mandate?
A successful party claims one, following a GE , as it has permission to implement its manifesto after winning the election.
What is apathy?
Disengagement with politics due having no confidence in the ability of parties and politicians to make a difference.
