Introduction

• Democracy is the most popular form of government in the world today.
• It allows people to participate in governance directly or indirectly.
• The chapter explores why democracy is considered the best form of government despite some of its shortcomings.

What is Democracy?

Definition of Democracy

• The word democracy comes from the Greek words ‘demos’ (people) and ‘kratia’ (rule), meaning “rule by the people.”
• Abraham Lincoln’s famous definition: “Democracy is the government of the people, by the people, and for the people.”

Key Definitions by Thinkers

Features of Democracy

A democratic government must have the following essential features:

Major Decisions by Elected Leaders

• In a democracy, decisions are made by elected representatives, not by a single ruler.
• Example: In Pakistan, General Pervez Musharraf (1999-2008) took power through a military coup, but elections under military rule do not make it a democracy.

Free and Fair Elections

• Elections should be regular, competitive, and allow people to freely choose their leaders.
• Example: China is not a democracy because only Communist Party-approved candidates can contest elections.

One Person, One Vote, One Value

• Every citizen should have equal voting rights, regardless of their status.
• Examples of Violations in History:
  • Saudi Arabia (Before 2015) – Women were not allowed to vote.
  • Estonia – Citizenship restrictions prevented many Russian residents from voting.
  • Fiji – Voting system favored native Fijians over Indian Fijians.

Rule of Law and Respect for Rights

• The government must follow laws and respect citizens’ rights.
• Example: Zimbabwe under Robert Mugabe had elections but did not respect opposition voices or media freedom, making it undemocratic.

Why Democracy? (Arguments in Favor of Democracy)

Promotes Equality

• Every citizen gets an equal say in governance.
• Ensures universal adult franchise (right to vote).

Enhances Individual Freedom

• Protects fundamental rights such as freedom of speech, religion, and expression.

Resolves Conflicts Peacefully

• Encourages debate and discussion to solve national problems.

Improves Decision-Making

• Democratic governments make decisions after discussion and consultation.
• Reduces hasty and authoritarian decisions.

Provides Accountability and Transparency

• Leaders are answerable to the public through elections, media, and opposition parties.

Allows for Correcting Mistakes

• If the government does not perform well, people can vote them out in the next election.

Why Not Democracy? (Arguments Against Democracy)

Leads to Political Instability

• Frequent elections and debates may slow down decision-making.
• Example: Coalition governments often collapse due to disagreements.

Delays in Decision-Making

• Too much consultation can make policy-making slow.
• Example: In emergencies, democratic processes can delay quick action.

Encourages Corruption

• Politicians may focus more on winning elections than on governance.
• Example: Money and muscle power are used to influence voters.

Creates Division in Society

• Political parties sometimes prioritize their own interests over national interests.
• Example: Ethnic or religious groups may use democracy to create conflicts.

Does Not Guarantee Economic Growth

• Some non-democratic countries have seen higher economic growth than democratic ones.
• Example: China (One-party rule) has had faster economic growth than India (Democracy).

Broader Meanings of Democracy

Beyond Government

• Democracy is not just about elections, but also about people’s participation in governance.
• Example: Citizens protesting for rights, RTI (Right to Information), and media activism are parts of democracy.

Different Forms of Democracy

• Direct Democracy – People vote on laws directly (Example: Switzerland).
• Representative Democracy – People elect representatives (Example: India, USA).

Global Spread of Democracy

• More than 190 countries claim to be democratic today.
• Some nations only have elections but lack real democratic values (e.g., Russia, North Korea).

Is Democracy the Best Option?

• Despite its challenges, democracy remains the most preferred form of government.
• It provides equal rights, freedom, accountability, and peaceful conflict resolution.
• The focus should be on improving democratic institutions rather than replacing democracy.

Conclusion

• Democracy means “rule by the people.”
• It is based on elected leaders, free elections, and equal voting rights.
• It is better than dictatorship because it provides freedom, equality, and accountability.
• However, democracy has some flaws, such as slow decision-making and corruption.
• Improving democracy is better than abandoning it.