Understanding Democracy

What are the main types of democracy?

• Social democracy

• Participatory democracy

• Pluralist democracy

• Direct democracy and representative democracy

How does direct democracy differ from representative democracy?

• Direct democracy eliminates the need for any form of government.

• Direct democracy involves direct participation of citizens in decision-making, whereas representative democracy relies on elected representatives to make decisions.

• Direct democracy is only used in small communities.

• Representative democracy allows citizens to vote directly on laws.

What role do political parties play in a democracy?

• Political parties primarily focus on international relations rather than domestic issues.

• Political parties only serve to create divisions among citizens.

• Political parties are irrelevant in modern democracies.

• Political parties are essential for structuring political debate, mobilizing voters, and forming governments.

How can political parties influence voter behavior?

• Political parties influence voter behavior through random chance and luck.

• Political parties influence voter behavior through campaigning, advertising, mobilization, and shaping public opinion.

• Political parties can influence voter behavior by controlling the weather.

• Political parties can only influence voter behavior by changing the voting age.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of having multiple political parties?

• Increased voter turnout

• Simplified decision-making

• Advantages: More representation, better governance, political competition. Disadvantages: Fragmentation, instability, voter confusion.

• Enhanced party loyalty