Understanding Democracy

What is the literal meaning of the word 'democracy'?

• Government by the few

• Rule by the elite

• Authority of the state

• Power of the people

Which principle suggests that individuals should not be subject to rules imposed by others?

• Collective governance

• Social equality

• Majority rule

• Individual autonomy

What is a potential downside of majority rule in a democracy?

• It eliminates the need for elections

• It ensures equal representation

• It can ignore minority interests

• It always leads to consensus

What was a key feature of the Athenian model of democracy?

• Indirect representation

• Direct participation by all citizens

• Exclusion of women and slaves

• Use of a proportional voting system

How does modern representative democracy differ from ancient Greek democracy?

• It involves direct citizen participation

• It is based on autocratic principles

• It excludes women and non-citizens

• It uses representatives elected by the people

What is a common feature of modern democratic systems?

• Direct law-making by citizens

• Selection of representatives through elections

• Rule by a single individual

• Absence of any voting system

What is a significant problem associated with representative democracy?

• Complete absence of majority rule

• Minority interests often go unrepresented

• Lack of any electoral system

• Overrepresentation of minority interests

What can low voter turnout in elections indicate?

• High citizen engagement

• Strong legitimacy of the government

• Lack of interest and involvement

• Overrepresentation of minority groups

Why is voter apathy a concern for democracies?

• It ensures all voices are heard equally

• It questions the legitimacy of elected governments

• It indicates high levels of citizen participation

• It strengthens the legitimacy of governments

What is necessary to safeguard the interests of minorities in a democracy?

• Complete reliance on consensus decision-making

• Majority rule without restrictions

• Adherence to human rights principles

• Exclusion from the electoral process