What is Democracy? Why Democracy?

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

These notes are comprehensive, easy to revise, and exam-oriented, while being engaging and relatable for students. They include clear explanations, examples, and additional points to aid understanding and retention.

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Chapter 1: What is Democracy? Why Democracy? – Detailed Notes

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1. Introduction to Democracy

Imagine a school where students choose their class monitor, set classroom rules, and give input on activities. This is democracy—a system where power lies with the people. Today, democracy is the most widely accepted form of government because it gives citizens the right to choose their leaders and participate in shaping society. But what exactly is democracy, and why is it important? Let’s find out.

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2. What is Democracy?

Definition

• Simple Definition: A form of government where rulers are elected by the people through free and fair elections.
• Abraham Lincoln’s Definition: "Democracy is a government of the people, by the people, for the people."
  • Of the people: Representatives are chosen by citizens.
  • By the people: People participate in electing their leaders.
  • For the people: The government works for citizens’ welfare.

Example: In India, every five years, citizens above 18 vote to elect MPs who form the government.

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3. Features of Democracy

1. Rulers elected by the people – Elections ensure power is not concentrated in one person or group.
2. Free and fair elections – Multiple candidates compete; elections are transparent.
3. One person, one vote, one value – Every vote counts equally.
4. Rule of law – The Constitution is supreme; no one is above it.
5. Respect for fundamental rights – Freedom, equality, and education rights are protected.
6. Majority rule with minority rights – Minority views are respected.
7. Accountability – Leaders are answerable to the people.

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4. Why Democracy? (Merits)

1. Accountable government – Leaders answer to citizens.
2. Better decision-making – Decisions involve debate and discussion.
3. Equality – Equal rights for all citizens.
4. Dignity of citizens – Every opinion matters.
5. Ability to correct mistakes – People can change governments via elections.

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5. Arguments Against Non-Democratic Governments

1. No choice for people
2. No accountability
3. Restricted freedoms
4. Biased laws favoring the elite

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6. Criticisms of Democracy (Demerits)

1. Time-consuming process
2. Political instability
3. Risk of short-term decisions
4. Corruption and unfair competition

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7. Broader Meaning of Democracy

• Beyond elections, democracy is a way of life that promotes freedom, equality, and justice.
• It involves participation in family, school, workplace, and community decisions.

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8. Key Terms

1. Monarchy – Rule by a king/queen.
2. Dictatorship – Absolute power with one person/group.
3. Constitution – The supreme law of the land.
4. Universal Adult Franchise – Equal voting rights for all adults.

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9. Importance of Democracy

• Ensures participation in governance.
• Protects rights and freedoms.
• Promotes equality and justice.
• Allows peaceful change through elections.

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10. Exam-Oriented Questions

1-Mark Questions

• Who gave the famous definition of democracy? – Abraham Lincoln
• What is “universal adult franchise”? – Equal voting rights for all adults without discrimination.

2/3-Mark Questions

• Three features of democracy: elected rulers, equal voting rights, rule of law.
• Three demerits: time-consuming, political instability, short-term decisions.

4-Mark Questions

• “Democracy improves decision-making” – because it involves multiple perspectives, debates, and public feedback, leading to better outcomes.
• “Democracy is better than other systems” – because it ensures accountability, equality, freedom, better decisions, and correction of mistakes.

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11. Revision Tips

• Use mnemonic FREE CAR: Free elections, Rule of law, Equal voting, Enhances dignity, Citizen participation, Accountability, Respect for rights.
• Make flowcharts to compare democracy and non-democracy.
• Solve past papers.
• Relate concepts to real-life examples.

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12. Fun Fact

India is the world’s largest democracy, with over 900 million voters in the 2019 general elections.

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