What are the Disadvantages of US direct democracy? Flashcards
(20 cards)
What is direct democracy?
A system of government in which citizens vote on laws and policies directly.
True or False: Direct democracy is commonly practiced at the federal level in the US.
False
What is one major disadvantage of direct democracy in the US?
It can lead to the tyranny of the majority.
Fill in the blank: Direct democracy can result in _________, where complex issues are oversimplified.
oversimplification
How can direct democracy affect minority rights?
It can undermine minority rights by allowing majority rule to dominate.
What is a potential risk associated with direct democracy regarding public opinion?
Public opinion can be swayed by misinformation or emotional appeals.
True or False: Direct democracy ensures informed decision-making by all voters.
False
What is one challenge of implementing direct democracy in a large, diverse country like the US?
It can be difficult to reach consensus among a large and diverse population.
What term describes the phenomenon where voters may not have enough information to make informed choices in direct democracy?
Voter ignorance
True or False: Direct democracy can lead to increased voter engagement.
True
What is a common criticism of the initiative process in direct democracy?
It can be dominated by special interest groups.
Fill in the blank: Direct democracy can create _________ as voters may not fully understand the implications of their choices.
confusion
What is the role of money in direct democracy campaigns?
Money can significantly influence the outcomes of initiatives and referendums.
True or False: Direct democracy eliminates the need for representative officials.
False
What is a potential disadvantage of frequent voting in direct democracy?
It can lead to voter fatigue and apathy.
What is one way that direct democracy can undermine government stability?
Frequent changes to laws can create uncertainty and inconsistency.
Fill in the blank: In direct democracy, the need for _________ can be overlooked, leading to poorly designed policies.
expertise
What is one argument against the effectiveness of direct democracy?
It may not lead to the best outcomes due to lack of deliberation.
True or False: Direct democracy can lead to a more educated electorate.
False
What is a common concern about the timing of elections in direct democracy?
Elections may coincide with other significant events, affecting voter turnout.
