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Class 10 Polity Chapter 7: Outcomes of Democracy Notes

Democracy is often judged by the results it delivers. This chapter evaluates how democracy promotes economic growth, reduces inequalities, protects individual freedoms, and ensures good governance. It also discusses the strengths and weaknesses of democratic systems in addressing real-world problems.



Introduction: Evaluating Democracy

  • Democracy is the most popular form of government, but does it meet people’s expectations?
  • This chapter explores the positive and negative outcomes of democracy.

What Do We Expect from Democracy?
  • Accountable and responsive government
  • Economic development
  • Reduction in inequality and poverty
  • Social justice and dignity for citizens


Accountable, Responsive, and Legitimate Government


Democracy Ensures Accountability

Democratic governments are accountable because:


  • Leaders are elected by the people.
  • People can change the government through elections.
  • Media and opposition parties keep a check on the government.
  • Example: In India (1977), Indira Gandhi’s government was removed after imposing Emergency (1975-77), showing people’s power in a democracy.

Democracy is Responsive to Citizens
  • Governments listen to people’s needs and demands.
  • People can protest, petition, or use RTI (Right to Information) to get answers.
  • Example: Jan Lokpal Movement (2011) in India led to the formation of Lokpal to fight corruption.

Democracy is a Legitimate Government

Democratic governments enjoy more public trust because:

  • They are formed through free and fair elections.
  • Citizens have the right to express their opinions.

Comparison with Non-Democratic Governments:
Feature Democracy Non-Democracy (Dictatorship)
Accountability High (people can question the government) Low (rulers cannot be questioned)
Public Participation High (elections, protests, media freedom) Low (public has no say)
Legitimacy People accept the government Often forced upon people


Economic Growth and Development


Democracy and Economic Growth
  • Some argue that non-democratic countries (like China) grow faster because they do not face political conflicts.
  • However, democracies focus on long-term, stable development.

Country Political System Economic Growth (GDP Growth Rate)
China One-Party Rule High growth (9-10%)
India Democracy Moderate growth (5-7%)
Pakistan Military Rule (frequent coups) Low growth (2-4%)

Why Do Some Democracies Develop Slowly?
  • Democracies must follow legal and constitutional procedures, which can delay economic policies.
  • Example:
    • In China, the government can forcefully remove people for infrastructure projects.
    • In India, public protests and court cases delay projects, but citizens’ rights are protected.


Reduction of Inequality and Poverty


Does Democracy Reduce Economic Inequality?
  • In theory, democracy should reduce inequality by ensuring equal opportunities.
  • In reality, wealth remains concentrated in the hands of a few.
  • Example of Economic Inequality in India:
    • Top 10% of the population holds 70% of wealth.
    • Poverty remains a major issue despite economic growth.

Issue Expectation in Democracy Reality
Wealth Distribution Equal opportunities for all Rich get richer; poor struggle
Access to Education & Healthcare Quality services for all Poor struggle to get education and medical care


Accommodation of Social Diversity


Democracy Promotes Social Harmony
  • In diverse societies, democracy helps different groups live together peacefully.
  • Power-sharing arrangements (like in Belgium) prevent conflicts.

Example:
  • India is a diverse country with many languages and religions, but democracy helps maintain unity.
  • In contrast, Sri Lanka’s failure to accommodate Tamils led to civil war (1983-2009).

Challenges in Accommodating Diversity
  • If the majority community dominates, conflicts arise (e.g., racial discrimination in the USA).
  • Governments must respect minority rights to avoid social tensions.


Dignity and Freedom of Citizens


Democracy Ensures Human Dignity
  • Every individual has equal rights and freedoms.
  • Example: Women’s participation in politics has increased due to democratic reforms.

Democracy Empowers Marginalized Groups
Group How Democracy Helps?
Women Voting rights, reservation in Panchayati Raj
Dalits (SC/STs) Reservation in jobs and education
LGBTQ+ Legal recognition and rights


Limitations of Democracy

Despite its benefits, democracy has some limitations:


Slow Decision-Making
  • Democracies take time to pass laws because they involve debates and discussions.
  • Example: Passing the GST law in India took many years.

Corruption and Influence of Money & Muscle Power
  • Elections are expensive, and rich people and corporations influence politics.
  • Example: Many MPs and MLAs in India have criminal records.

Short-Term Focus of Politicians
  • Politicians focus on winning the next election rather than long-term policies.
  • Example: Populist schemes (like free electricity) are often announced before elections.



Is Democracy the Best Form of Government?


Feature Democracy Non-Democracy
Accountability High Low
Freedom & Rights Guaranteed Restricted
Social Justice Promotes equality Often ignores rights of minorities
Economic Growth Moderate Can be fast, but unstable


Conclusion

  • Democracy ensures accountability, responsiveness, and legitimacy.
  • Democratic countries may develop slowly, but they provide stability and fairness.
  • Democracy does not completely remove economic inequality, but it works towards reducing poverty.
  • It accommodates social diversity and protects individual dignity.
  • Despite challenges like corruption and slow decision-making, democracy remains the best form of government.
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