Question

Describe any five characteristics of democracy.

Answer 1

Hint: Democracy can be simply defined as the government for the people, of the people and by the people. It is considered the best form of democracy amongst many other forms such as monarchy, anarchy, oligarchy etc.

Complete answer:
1) In a Democracy, people have the right to vote and hence choose their representatives. They have the right to participate in the decision-making process. Thus, democracy ensures a government that is accountable and responsive to the needs of its people.
2) Democracy involves extensive debate and discussion. This may sometimes delay the process of implementation but serves as a productive and inclusive way of decision making in the longer run.
3) Democracy also ensures transparency. It is so because the decision making is based on a set of norms and procedures. In case a citizen is curious to know about the ins and out of a particular situation, she/he can do so in an effective manner.
4) Democratic government is seen as the best form of government because it solely reflects the will and aspirations of its people in the society. It is the government “for” the people and hence, it works keeping in mind the needs of everyone and not just the rich and powerful.
5) Democracies work best in social diversities. Especially in a country like India which is very diverse, democracy is the best way to know about what each social or ethnic group desires.

Note: Norway has topped the Democracy Index(2019). India ranks 51st in the Index, slipping down ten positions than the previous year. North Korea was ranked at the bottom with a rank of 167. This index was published by “Economist Intelligence unit”.