Class 9 Political Science Chapter 1: What is Democracy? Why Democracy?

Q: From which language is the word 'Democracy' derived?
- A: It is derived from the Greek word 'Demokratia' ('Demos' meaning people and 'Kratia' meaning rule).
Q: What is the most basic definition of democracy?
- A: Democracy is a form of government in which the rulers are elected by the people.
Q: In a true democracy, who must have the final decision-making power?
- A: The power must rest with those elected by the people.
Q: Why was the government of General Pervez Musharraf in Pakistan not considered democratic?
- A: Because he came to power through a military coup in 1999 and passed a 'Legal Framework Order' that gave him the power to dismiss the national and provincial assemblies, meaning the final power rested with military officers, not elected representatives.
Q: What is the condition for elections in a true democracy?
- A: A democracy must be based on a free and fair election where those currently in power have a fair chance of losing.
Q: Why are elections in China not considered truly democratic?
- A: Because before contesting elections, a candidate needs the approval of the Chinese Communist Party, and only members of this party or its smaller allies are allowed to contest.
Q: What does the principle of 'One person, one vote, one value' mean?
- A: It means that every adult citizen must have one vote, and each vote must have equal value (unlike in pre-2015 Saudi Arabia or the electoral system in Fiji).

Q: Which political party led the freedom struggle in Zimbabwe and who was its famous leader?
- A: ZANU-PF, led by Robert Mugabe.
Q: Why was Zimbabwe under Robert Mugabe not considered a true democracy, despite holding regular elections?
- A: Because Mugabe's government used unfair practices in elections, changed the constitution to increase the President's powers, suppressed opposition parties, and controlled the media.
Q: What is the fourth key feature of a democracy regarding the rule of law?
- A: A democratic government rules within limits set by constitutional law and citizens' rights.

Q: Why is democracy often accused of causing political instability?
- A: Because leaders keep changing in a democracy, which can lead to instability and constant shifts in policy.
Q: Why do democratic governments often face delays in decision-making?
- A: Because democracy is based on consultation and discussion, which means many people have to be consulted before a decision is made.
Q: How does electoral competition affect morality in a democracy?
- A: Democracy is all about political competition and power play, which often leaves no scope for morality.
Q: Why does democracy sometimes lead to corruption?
- A: Because democratic politics is heavily based on electoral competition and campaign funding, which can breed corruption.

Q: Why is a democratic government considered a better government?
- A: Because it is a more accountable form of government, meaning it is bound to respond to the needs of the people.
Q: How does democracy improve the quality of decision-making?
- A: By involving extensive consultation and discussion, it reduces the chances of rash or irresponsible decisions.
Q: How does democracy help diverse countries like India stay united?
- A: It provides a peaceful method to deal with differences and conflicts, ensuring that no single group can permanently oppress another.
Q: How does democracy enhance the dignity of citizens?
- A: It is based on the principle of political equality, meaning the poorest and least educated have the same status as the rich and educated.
Q: What is a unique self-correcting feature of democracy?
- A: It allows us to correct its own mistakes, as hidden mistakes cannot remain hidden for long, and rulers can be changed through elections.

Class 9 Vinayak Study Junction Beawar