The consequences of democracy Notes in English Class 10 Political Science Chapter-5 Book-DEMOCRATIC POLITICS-II

 

Introduction

We are now in the final leg of this journey of democracy, where we have to consider some big questions. For example, what does democracy do? What can we expect from it? And does democracy really fulfil our expectations? In this chapter, we will evaluate the outcomes of democracy. We will try to find out what impact democracy has on governance, economic development, equality, social issues and freedom. We will find some positive outcomes, but at the same time many questions and concerns will also emerge. These concerns will lead us to think about the challenges of democracy.

How to evaluate the results of democracy?

• Democracy is often considered superior to other systems of governance, and there are some important reasons behind this. 

• First, democracy embraces the principle of equality, which grants equal rights to all citizens. In addition, the dignity of the individual is respected, which recognizes the worth of every human being.

• In democracy, there is discussion before taking a decision, which leads to better and more thoughtful decisions. Along with this, peaceful methods are adopted to resolve conflicts and conflicts, which maintains harmony in the society. 

• Another special feature of democracy is that there is scope for identifying mistakes and correcting them, due to which this system keeps working in the direction of continuous improvement.

Theory versus Practical Reality:

Democracy is a system in which people have the right to elect their representatives. This idea stands on both moral and practical grounds, but its effectiveness is affected by many challenges.

1. Moral aspects of democracy

• Equality of people: Democracy gives equal rights to everyone, whatever their social status or economic level.

• Freedom of expression: In this every person gets the opportunity to express his opinion and tell it.

• Accountability: Elected representatives are accountable to the people.

2. The practical benefits of democracy

• Stability: It makes possible the peaceful transfer of power.

• Capacity for reform: In a democratic system, public discontent can be expressed peacefully, leaving room for reform.

• Inclusive decisions: Decisions are made keeping in mind diverse views and public interest.

3. Challenges

• Inequality and corruption: Even in democracy the rich and powerful classes have greater influence.

• Population and Education: Democratic systems do not function well in large and less educated societies.

• Slow process: Decision making takes more time, which makes quick action not possible in some cases.

4. Realm of democracy

• Today most countries in the world claim to be democracies, and these countries have similar things such as constitutions, elections, political parties, and civil rights.

• However, the social, economic and cultural conditions of these countries vary, and this is why the results of democracy also vary in different countries. 

• The democratic process and its effectiveness in each country depend on its specific social context, resources, and political culture, leading to different experiences and outcomes even within the same democratic system.

5. Expectations from democracy

• People often assume democracy is the solution to every problem.  When it isn't, they blame it. 

• But democracy is only a means, not a solution. It gives equal rights and opportunities to citizens, but problems are solved only by the efforts of society and people. 

• The job of democracy is to ensure everyone's participation in decision-making, not to solve all problems immediately. 

• It is wrong to think of it as a magic wand.  It is a platform for equality, dignity and better decisions, but not perfect. The responsibility to bring about reform lies with the citizens.

Accountable, responsible and legitimate governance 

The basic purpose of democracy

The main concern in democracy is that citizens get the right to choose their rulers and maintain their control over the rulers. Democracy ensures efficient governance and accountability towards the citizens in this direction.

1. Democracy vs. other systems of government

• In undemocratic regimes, governments can make decisions quickly because they do not have to face the public, the legislature, or opposing opinions, allowing decisions to be implemented quickly. 

• Though the process of negotiation and deliberation may be longer in democratic governance, its decisions are more transparent and acceptable to the people. 

• In democracy different opinions are respected and decisions are taken by broad consensus, making them easier to follow in society and providing more stability.

2. Main features of democracy

• In a democratic government, citizens have the right to know the decision making process and rules followed, which ensures transparency. 

• This transparency is often missing in undemocratic governments, where there is ambiguity and significant control over decisions. 

• In a democracy the government is accountable to the citizens, and this accountability is made possible through means such as elections, public debate, and the right to information. 

• Democratic systems have been more successful in holding regular and fair elections, which give citizens the right to choose their representatives. 

• Although, the performance of democracy has been mixed in providing equal opportunity to all and ensuring public discussion on every decision, yet this system ensures greater transparency and participation.

3. The limitations of democracy

• Democracy is not free from corruption, and many times it ignores the needs of the larger population, causing problems. 

• However, non-democratic governments fare no better in these aspects, as they too often abuse power and ignore public interests. 

• Democratic governments may be slow, but the process makes decisions more legitimate and acceptable to people because public participation, transparency, and accountability play a key role in it 

• Thus, while democracy may have some flaws, it ultimately proves to be a more effective way of running society in a stable and inclusive manner.

4. Legitimacy and support of democracy

• The greatest strength of democracy is its legitimacy, because it gives people the right to choose their own government. 

• It ensures transparency, accountability and protection of citizens' rights.

• Despite weaknesses like slow processes and corruption, democracy is better than other systems. 

• Its decisions are widely accepted, and its global support is proof of its effectiveness.

democracy and economic growth

• It is natural to expect development from democratic governance, because it offers the possibility of good and accountable government.

• However, between 1950 and 2000, dictatorships had a slightly better record of economic growth.

• Economic development depends not only on the system of governance, but also on factors such as population, global position, cooperation and economic priorities.

• The difference in economic development between less developed countries with dictatorships and democracies is not very large.

• Still, democracy is the better choice because it provides long-term benefits such as civil rights, equality, and stability.

Economic achievements of democracy

Democracy is often emotionally linked to our values, but it is also important to consider its economic achievements.

• Economic growth in dictatorships vs. democracies: Studies show that dictatorships may have slightly better economic growth, but the gap narrows considerably in poor countries.

• Economic inequality in democracy: Economic inequality persists even in democracy. For example: South Africa and Brazil, the richest 20% people capture 60% of the national income, while the poorest 20% have only 3%. Denmark and Hungary have more economic equality here.

• Purpose of democracy: Democracy is not just for economic gain. Its main purpose is to promote social and political equality. It focuses more on the rights and opportunities of all citizens than on equal distribution of income.

Inequality and poverty reduction

• Democratic systems are expected to not only promote economic growth but also reduce economic inequality. The question is whether the distribution of income and resources during rapid economic growth is such that all classes receive equal benefits?

• It is often observed that economic growth and inequality grow together in democracy. In democratic countries like South Africa and Brazil, the upper class has a large share of income and resources, while the condition of the poor class does not improve much.

• Democracy can make equitable distribution of opportunities and resources possible, but this requires effective policies and strong implementation. Inequality and poverty do not automatically end simply by having a democratic regime.

Democratic system and economic inequality

The democratic system is based on political equality, where every person's vote has equal importance. Everyone gets equal status in elections, but with this economic inequality is also seen increasing. A handful of rich class keep a large part of the income and property, while the lower classes of the society do not have enough means to live. Many times they have difficulty in fulfilling basic needs like food, clothing, housing, education and treatment.

• Poverty and the role of democratic governments:  Countries like India have a large number of poor people, and political parties strive to get their votes. Yet, elected governments do not pay as much attention to alleviating poverty as would be expected. The situation is worse in other countries, such as Bangladesh, where more than half the population lives in poverty.

• Global inequality and dependency:  Many poor countries have become dependent on rich countries for their food supply. Democracies have not been very successful in reducing economic inequalities so far. Policy reforms and equitable distribution of resources are needed to overcome this challenge.

Social diversity and democracy

Democracy helps ensure peace and harmony. It maintains harmony among social diversities, like Belgium did among its ethnic groups.  The beauty of democracy is that it teaches to resolve social divisions and conflicts through dialogue and coordination. This reduces the chances of violence, and harmony remains in the society.

1. Conditions of democracy:

• Respect for the minority: Democracy does not mean only the rule of the majority. The majority must always respect and work with the minority. Only then can the government represent the wishes of all.

• Inclusive majority: Majority rule is not the rule of a majority group of religion, race, or language. Different groups can be part of the majority in every decision. Democracy remains inclusive only when every citizen has the opportunity to be part of the majority. Preventing someone from becoming part of the majority community on the basis of birth weakens democracy.

 Dignity and liberty of citizens

• The democratic system is ahead of any other system of governance in terms of individual dignity and freedom.

• Everyone expects respect, and conflicts often arise when someone feels they have not been treated respectfully.

• This desire for dignity and freedom is the foundation of democracy. However, these values ​​are followed at different levels in different democratic systems.

1. Dignity of women and weaker sections

• If we take the example of dignity of women, it is seen that only after a long struggle, democracy accepted that it is necessary to treat women with respect and equality.

• Although women's rights are now legally and morally recognised, this was not possible in undemocratic systems.

• Similarly, democracy in India has played an important role in providing equal status and opportunities to weaker castes and discriminated classes. Caste discrimination still exists today, but there is no legal or moral support in its favour.

2. Democracy and public awareness

• The greatest strength of democracy is that it is subject to constant scrutiny and evaluation.

• People demand to improve democracy through their complaints and expectations.

• This dissatisfaction and criticism is a sign of the success of democracy, as it shows that people have become more aware of their rights.

• Today most people believe that their vote impacts the functioning of the government and that it affects their interests.

• This awareness has inspired people to transform from subjects to citizens. This quality of democracy makes it different and better than other systems of governance.