Political Science: What is Democracy? Why Democracy?

Topics in this chapter

• Democracy: Meaning and Features
• Democratic and Non-Democratic Systems
• Elections and Political Equality
• Accountability and Decision-Making
• Arguments For and Against Democracy
• Democratic Rights and Rule of Law

Cheat sheet

Practice questions

1. Question 1Q-DB32F7

   According to the simple definition of democracy discussed in the chapter, how are the rulers chosen in a democratic country?

   1. A.They are appointed by religious leaders.
   2. B.They are elected by the people.
   3. C.They inherit the position through royal lineage.
   4. D.They are selected by military generals.
   See the answer and solution
2. Question 2Q-951EC6

   Which of the following historical examples illustrates a lack of political equality in the right to vote?

   1. A.India granting universal adult franchise after independence.
   2. B.Estonia making it difficult for Russian minority people to get voting rights.
   3. C.New Zealand being the first country to grant women voting rights.
   4. D.All citizens above 18 years voting in national elections in South Africa.
   See the answer and solution
3. Question 3Q-EA5907

   Why is the case of General Pervez Musharraf's rule in Pakistan not considered a true democracy, despite holding elections?

   1. A.Because the elections were not held using electronic voting machines.
   2. B.Because the final power rested with military officers and Musharraf himself, not the elected representatives.
   3. C.Because only one political party was allowed to contest elections.
   4. D.Because citizens were not allowed to vote multiple times.
   See the answer and solution
4. Question 4Q-79863E

   Which country is cited in the chapter where the Indigenous Fijian's vote has more value than that of an Indian-Fijian?

   1. A.Saudi Arabia
   2. B.Fiji
   3. C.Zimbabwe
   4. D.Mexico
   See the answer and solution
5. Question 5Q-F89705

   How did Robert Mugabe's party, ZANU-PF, maintain power for years in Zimbabwe through undemocratic practices?

   1. A.By holding completely free and fair elections without any interference.
   2. B.By handing over power peacefully to opposition parties every five years.
   3. C.By changing the constitution to increase the President's powers and harassing opposition leaders.
   4. D.By completely abolishing the parliament and ruling by emergency decrees only.
   See the answer and solution