CBSE Class 10 Social Science HOTs Outcomes of Democracy

Question : The word Democracy is formed by:
(a) Demos and Kratia
(b) Demos and Cracia
(c) Demos and Kracia
(d) None of these
Answer : A

Question : Why is democratic government regarded as a better choice?
(a) It promotes equality among citizens.
(b) It ensures economic development.
(c) It provides a method to resolve conflicts.
(d) Both (a) and (c) are correct
Answer : D

Question : Which among the following is not true about nondemocratic regimes?
(a) These type of government do not have to bother about public opinion.
(b) These type of government take less time to arrive at a decision.
(c) Principle of individual dignity has legal force in nondemocratic regines.
(d) These often suppress internal social differences.
Answer : C

Question : Which of the following options are outcomes of democracy?
I. Responsible government
II. Accountable government
III. Powerful government
IV. Legitimate government
Options:
(a) I, III & IV
(b) I, II & IV
(c) II,III &IV
(d) I, II & III
Answer : B

Question : Which of the following is marked by “Regular, free and fair elections” ?
(a) Dictatorship
(b) Democracy
(c) Monarchy
(d) Military Rule
Answer : B

Question : Democracies are based on political _________.
(a) equality
(b) inability
(c) inequality
(d) accountability
Answer : A

Question : Which one of the following is the most popular form of government in the contemporary world?
(a) Dictatorship
(b) Monarchy Rule
(c) Military Rule
(d) Democracy
Answer : D

Question : Which among the following is the basic outcome of democracy?
(a) Military culture
(b) Elimination of poverty
(c) Warfare policies
(d) Political, social and economic development
Answer : D

Question : Which of the following statements is true about democracy?
(a) It is considered to be a good form of government due to being less corrupt.
(b) It ensures high rate of economic growth.
(c) It is rule by majority.
(d) It respects the dignity of citizens.
Answer : B

Question : Which among the following is correct with regard to democracy?
(a) Democracy can provide equality
(b) Democracy can assure liberty
(c) Democracy can provide Social Justice
(d) All of the above
Answer : D

Question : Which of the following is correct about judging democracy?
(a) We can judge democracy by its people.
(b) We can judge democracy by its outcomes.
(c) We can judge democracy by its political parties.
(d) We can judge democracy by its government.
Answer : D

Question : Rule of law is a feature of which form of government?
(a) Dictatorship
(b) Democracy
(c) Monarchy
(d) All of these
Answer : B

Question : The most important outcome of democracy is:
(a) Accountable government
(b) Responsive government
(c) Both a and b are correct
(d) None of the above
Answer : C

Question : What does dictatorship mean ?
(a) Rule by one person or small group of person
(b) Rule by everyone
(c) Rule by the few
(d) None of these
Answer : A

Question : Which one of these is not the feature of Dictatorship ?
(a) No constitution
(b) Monopoly over power
(c) Equality among citizens
(d) No elections
Answer : C

Question : Who has given the statement, “Democracy is a government of the people, by the people and for the people.”
(a) Abrahm Lincoln
(b) Mahatma Gandhi
(c) Jawahar Lal Nehru
(d) None of these
Answer : A

Question :  Which of the following aspect best signifies this image ?
(a) In a democracy all sections and classes of people can live amicably.
(b) In a democracy there is a stark division between the various castes.
(c) Blacks and white population can never join hands.
(d) Documentation is necessary in any deal.
Answer : A

Question : Which South Asian country prefers dictatorship over democracy ?
(a) Bangladesh
(b) Pakistan
(c) Nepal
(d) Sri Lanka
Answer : B

Question : Which country in South Asia has no democracy?
(a) Nepal
(b) Sri Lanka
(c) Bhutan
(d) Maldives. 
Answer : C

Question : In the context of assessing democracy which among the following is odd one out. Democracies need to ensure:
(a) free and fair elections
(b) dignity of the individual
(c) majority rule
(d) equal treatment before law 
Answer : C

Question : Democracy is preferred over dictatorship everywhere except ......... .
(a) Nepal
(b) Pakistan
(c) India
(d) Bangladesh. 
Answer : B

Question : How many countries of the world have democratic set-up of government?
(a) More than hundred countries
(b) Less than hundred countries
(c) Less than fifty countries
(d) More than fifty countries. 
Answer : A

Question : Studies on political and social inequalities in democracy show that
(a) democracy and development go together.
(b) inequalities exist in democracies.
(c) inequalities do not exist under dictatorship.
(d) dictatorship is better than democracy. 
Answer : B

Question : What does the term ultra-rich mean?
(a) Highly wealthy
(b) Wealthy
(c) Highly healthy
(d) Not very wealthy. 
Answer : A

Question : Which of the following is marked by “Regular, free and fair elections” ?
(a) Dictatorship
(b) Democracy
(c) Monarchy
(d) Military Rule
Answer : D

Question : What is rule of the people known as ?
(a) Democracy
(b) Military rule
(c) Dictatorship
(d) Monarchy
Answer : A

Question : When was democracy formally established in India?
(a) 1946
(b) 1947
(c) 1948
(d) 1950
Answer : D

Question : What do you call the system in democracy which allows the citizens to examine the decisions taken by the government ?
(a) Transparency
(b) Universal Adult Franchise
(c) Defection
(d) Monarchy
Answer : A

Question : Which of the following options shows that democracy has failed on these grounds ?
I. Corruption
II. Literacy rate
III. Economic inequality
IV. Legitimate government
Options:
(a) I,III & IV
(b) I, II & IV
(c) II, III & IV
(d) I, II & III
Answer : D

Question : Which of the following is the true meaning of 'Equal treatment of women' as a necessary ingredient of a democratic society?
(a) Women are always treated with respect.
(b) It is now easier for women to legally wage struggle for their rights.
(c) Most societies across the world are now increasingly women dominated.
(d) Women are now treated as equals in the political arena.
Answer : B

Question : The routine tales of _______ are enough to convince us that democracies are not free from any type of evil.
(a) economic growth
(b) development
(c) accountability
(d) corruption
Answer : D

Question : Which of the following options shows what can democracy lead to?
I. Handling of social differences
II. Secular society
III. Unequal economic development
IV. Harmonious social life
Options:
(a) I, III & IV
(b) I,II & IV
(c) II,III &IV
(d) I, II & III
Answer : D

Question : Democracy is based on the idea of:
(a) Majority
(b) Minority
(c) Deliberation and negotiation
(d) None of the above
Answer : C

Question : Study the picture and answer the question that follows : Which of the following aspect best signifies above image?
(a) Economic distribution
(b) Dignity and freedom of the citizens
(c) Accommodation of social diversity
(d) Economic growth and development
Answer : A

Question : How many countries of the world have democratic set up of government?
(a) More than hundred countries
(b) Less than hundred countries
(c) Less than fifty countries
(d) More than fifty countries
Answer : A

Question : Expected outcome of democracy is:
(a) Quality of government
(b) Economic well being
(c) Freedom and dignity
(d) All of the above
Answer : C

Question : Which South Asian country prefers dictatorship over democracy ?
(a) Bangladesh
(b) Pakistan
(c) Nepal
(d) Sri Lanka
Answer : B

Question : Which of the following is the least expectation from democracy?
(a) It cannot accommodate variations in social life
(a) It should produce a harmonious social life.
(a) It develops procedure to conduct competition.
(a) It reduces the possibility of violent tensions.
Answer : A

Question : Which of the following options shows that democracy attains people's happiness?
I. The government functions to represent general views.
II. It makes laws very quickly.
III. There is equal distribution of rights and liberties.
IV. It has better governance.
Options:
(a) I, III & IV
(b) I,II & IV
(c) II, III &IV
(d) I, II & III
Answer : A

Question : Identify the correct statement/s about decision-making in democracy:
I. It is based on norms.
II. It is based on procedures.
III. It is based on government's will.
IV. It is based on President's will.
Options:
(a) I & II
(b) II & III
(c) I & III
(d) II & IV
Answer : A

True / False

Question : The most distinctive feature of democracy is that its examination never gets over. (True/False)
Answer : True

Question : Democracy improves the quality of decision making. (True/False)
Answer : True

Assertion and Reasoning Based Questions

Mark the option which is most suitable :
(a) If both assertion and reason are true and reason is the correct explanation of assertion.
(b) If both assertion and reason are true but reason is not the correct explanation of assertion.
(c) If assertion is true but reason is false.
(d) If both assertion and reason are false.

Question : Assertion : Democracy improves the quality of decision making.
Reason : Democracy is just a form of government.
Answer : (b) It improves the quality of decision making because if any decision taken by the ruling party is wrong, the opposition party can interfere and correct it. The first step towards thinking carefully about the outcomes of democracy is to recognise that democracy is just a form of government. Both assertion and reason are true but reason is not the correct explanation of assertion.

Question : Assertion : Democracy enhances the dignity of the individual.
Reason : Over a hundred countries of the world today claim and practice some kind of democratic politics.
Answer : (b) Yes, Democracy enhances the dignity of the individual. We know that, over a hundred countries of the world today claim and practice some kind of democratic politics: they have formal constitutions, they hold elections, they have parties and they guarantee rights of citizens. Both assertion and reason are true but reason is not the correct explanation of assertion.

Question : Assertion : Democracy can address all socio-economic and political problems.
Reason : Democracy is similar to dictatorship.
Answer : (c) Our interest and fascination for democracy often pushes us into taking a position that democracy can address all socio-economic and political problems. Democracy is not similar to dictatorship. Hence, assertion is true but reason is false. 

Read the extract and answer the questions that follows :

There are some things that democracy must provide. In a democracy, we are most concerned with ensuring that people have the right to choose their rulers and people will have control over the rulers. Whenever possible and necessary, citizens should be able to participate in decision making that affects them all.
Some people think that democracy produces less effective government. It is, of course, true that nondemocratic rulers do not have to bother about deliberation in assemblies or worry about majorities and public opinion. 

Let us think in terms of costs. Imagine a government that may take decisions very fast. But it may take decisions that are not accepted by the people and may therefore face problems.

Question : What is the basic outcome of democracy ?
Answer : The most basic outcome of democracy should be that it produces a government that is accountable to the citizens, and responsive to the needs and expectations of the citizens.

Question : Why there is delay in decision making in democracy?
Answer : (i) Non- democratic governments can be quick in decisionmaking and taking action. However, in a democracy, citizen’s decisions are taken into account and action is taken on the consent of the people.
(ii) Democracy is based on the idea of deliberation and negotiation. Therefore, there is bound to be some delay in decision making.

Question : Is the cost of time that democracy pays worth it?
Answer : (i) A democratic government may take more time than a non-democratic government to follow procedures before arriving at a decision.
(ii) But because it has followed procedures, its decisions may be both more acceptable to the people and more effective.
Therefore, the cost of time that democracy pays is perhaps worth it. 

Mark the option which is most suitable:
(a) Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A.
(b) Both A and R are true but R is not the correct explanation of A.
(c) A is true but R is false.
(d) A is false but R is true.

Question. Assertion: Democracy can address all socio-economic and political problems.
Reason: Democracy is similar to dictatorship.
Answer : (c) A is true but R is false.

Question. Assertion: Democracies are based on political equality.
Reason: All individuals have equal political right to elect representatives.
Answer : (a) Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A.

Question. Assertion: Dictatorships have slightly higher rate of economic growth.
Reason : Economic development depends on country's population size.
Answer : (c) A is true but R is false.

One Word Answer Type Questions

Question : Name one neighbouring country of India where democracy is preferred over dictatorship ?
Answer : Pakistan

Question : In the context of assessing democracy which among the following is odd one out. 
Democracies need to ensure :
(i) Free and fair elections.
(ii) Dignity of the individual.
(iii) Majority rule.
(iv) Equal treatment before law.
Answer : (iii) Majority rule.

Question : Which type of government addresses the needs and expectations of the people ?
Answer : Democratic.

Very Short Questions for Class 10 Social Science Outcomes of Democracy

Question : How does democracy produce an accountable government?
Answer : In an accountable government, people have the right to elect the leaders to form government and if possible they participate in decision making process.

Question : Why is economic growth better in dictatorship than in democracy?
Answer : Economic growth is better in dictatorship than in democracy because in democracy the leaders think about their profit only, the government is not very keen to remove poverty and develop the country economically. They are not accountable to citizens thus their economic. 

Question : Explain the basic outcomes of democracy.
Answer : The basic outcomes of democracy are :
(i) It helps in establishing a government which is accountable to the people and is responsive to their needs and expectations.
(ii) It is a legitimate form of government which runs according to the rules and regulations provided by the constitution.
(iii) There is transparency in the system i.e., people have the right to examine the process of decision making. 

Question : Is the decision making process slower in democratic government in comparison to that in other non- democratic forms of government?
Answer : Yes, decision making process is slower in democratic government in comparison to that in other non democratic forms of government. However, proper norms and procedures are followed for taking such decisions. Hence, the decision taken is acceptable by all and is the most effective. 

Question : How can democratic reforms be carried out by political conscious citizens if their needs are not taken care of by the government.
Answer : The most important concern should be to increase and improve the quality of political participation by ordinary citizens. Politically conscious citizens are aware about their duties and rights as entitled by the constitution, this gives them an upper hand for they are able to judge between right and wrong. They are also able to spread this awareness around by holding discussions or generally through the word of mouth and help in formation of Public opinion. 

Question :  List the various aspects and qualifications which help in giving a clear definition of democracy.
Answer : 1. The rulers elected by the people must take all the major decisions
2. Elections must offer a choice and fair opportunity to the people to change the existing rulers.
3. Choice and opportunity should be available to all the people on an equal basis
4. Besides political rights, some social and economical rights are offered to the citizens by the democracy.
5. Power sharing is the spirit of democracy and is necessary between government and social groups in a democracy.

Question : Is there more transparency in democracy in comparison to non-democratic governments?
Answer : Yes, there is more transparency in democracy in comparison to non-democratic governments. People can examine the process of decision making to check if it has been taken through the right procedure. However, this feature is missing in non-democratic form of governments where decision is imposed on the citizens without allowing them to know why and how it was taken. Moreover, democratic form of government is accountable to the people and there is a mechanism through which people can participate in the decision-making process whenever required. 

Question : What is democracy? Discuss its salient features.
Answer : Democracy is a form of government in which the people elect their representatives. In this way, 'it is the government of the people, for the people and by the people'. Its salient features are as follows:
(i) It promotes equality, liberty and fraternity among citizens.
(ii) It helps in improving the dignity of each individual through providing equal rights to all.
(iii) It helps in improving the quality of decision- making in the favour of public welfare
(iv) It offers a way for resolving conflicts among social groups peacefully
(v) It secures human rights 

Question : Why is democracy encouraged all over the world?
Answer : Democracy is encouraged all over the world due to the following reasons:
(i) It is the government that is elected by the people.
(ii) It is a legitimate form of government which runs according to the rules and regulations provided by the constitution.
(iii) It is the government where the people have chosen their representatives as per their choice and they have the power of not electing these representatives again if they are not working in the desired ways.
(iv) Here demands, needs and aspirations of every citizen are taken care of by the government.
(v) Each citizen gets equal rights and liberties.
(vi) The government ensures social justice in society.

Question : How can a democratic government be made accountable? Explain.
Answer : A democratic government can be made accountable by :
(i) Conducting discussions and negotiations.
(ii) Ensuring transparency.
(iii) Holding regular, free and fair elections.
(iv) Having an independent media. 

Question : Why do we expect a lot from a democratic government?
Answer : A democratic government is people’s own government. People have faith in it because it provides equal status to all and resolves conflicts among individuals in an amicable way. People wish to be ruled by representatives elected by them. They also believe that democracy is suitable for their country. When people get some benefits, they start expecting more which is quite natural.

Question : An ideal government would not only keep itself away from corruption but also make fighting corruption and black money a top priority.” Justify the statement by highlighting the values attached to it.
Answer : (i) An ideal government is always transparent. It decisions are based on norms and procedures. The citizens have the right and the means to examine the process of decision-making.
(ii) Corruption and black money are closely linked to each other. They flourish when the government grope them. Hence, it is the responsibility of the government to put these two closely linked issues on top priority and give punishment to all those who are indulged in them.
(iii) The government should give emphasis on building the character of its people. Only the men with high moral values will keep themselves away from corruption and money making business.

Question : How are complaints treated as testimony to the success of democracy? Explain.
Or
The fact that people are complaining is itself a testimony to the success of democracy. Justify the statement with appropriate points.
Answer : (i) Democracy supports dignity and freedom of the citizens. Every man wants to get respect from fellow persons in the society. A lot of conflicts take place among human beings because some feel they are not treated with due respect. The passion for respect and freedom are the basis of democracy.
(ii) Democracy in India has strengthened the claims of the disadvantaged and discriminated castes for equal status and equal opportunity.
(iii) As democracy passes one test, it produces another test. As people get some benefits of democracy, they ask for more and want to make democracy even better.
(iv) That is why, when we ask people about the way democracy functions, they will always come up with more expectations, and many complaints. The fact that people are complaining is itself a testimony to the success of democracy. 

Question : “Democracy is seen to be good in principle but felt to be not so good in practice.” Justify the statement.
Answer :  Democracy is seen to be good in principles but not so good in practice because of the following reasons :
(i) The decision making process in democracy is time-taking.
(ii) The tyranny of the majority sometimes over rides the minority.
(iii) Corruption and red-tapism often tarnishes the functioning of democracies.
(iv) An illiterate and uniformed electorate fails to give itself a legitimate and accountable government.
(v) The role of dynastic politics dominates political cultures which goes against the very concept of democracy. 

Question : Evidence shows that in practice, many democracies did not fulfill the expectations of producing economic development in the country. Validate the statement with the help of relevant example.
Answer :  (i) If we consider all democracies and all dictatorships for the fifty years between 1950 and 2000, dictatorship has slightly higher rate of economic growth.
(ii) Economic development depends on several factors : country’s population size, global situation, cooperation from other countries, etc.
(iii) However, the difference in the rates of economic development between less developed countries with dictatorships and democracies is negligible.
(iv) Overall, it cannot be said that democracy is a guarantee of economic development. But we can expect democracy not to lag behind dictatorships in this respect.
(v) With small difference in the rates of economic growth between countries under dictatorship and democracy, it is better to prefer democracy as it has several other positive outcomes. Such as- the decisions are taken after a consensus is formed. The economic development is more likely to be broad based and benefit larger section of the society. In a democracy the people are citizens and not subjects. 

Question : “A public expression of dissatisfaction with democracy shows the success of democratic project.” Justify the statement.
Answer : “A public expression of dissatisfaction with democracy shows the success of democracy.
(i) It shows that people have developed awareness and the courage to ask questions.
(ii) When people look critically at the government, democracy becomes better.
(iii) When people complain, government begins to perform better.
(iv) They value their democratic rights and make use of it. 

Question : How are the democratic governments better than the other forms of government? Compare.
Answer :  The democratic governments are better than other forms of governments:
(i) They hold regular elections, while it is not the case in other form of governments.
(ii) They guarantee rights to citizens, while it is not the case in the other form of governments.
(iii) Such government accommodates social diversities, while this does not happen in other forms of government. 

Question : Discuss any three factors that describe the successful working of democracy in India.
Answer :  Factor for the success of democracy is India:
(i) Transparency of functioning with implementation of RTI Act.
(ii) It provides legitimacy as regular elections are held in India.
(iii) Government accommodates social diversity.
(iv) It provides dignity and freedom to the citizens with many fundamental rights. 

Question : Establish the relationship between democracy and development.
Answer : In general there is a healthy relationship between democracy and development. However,
(a) Experience from poor countries show that economic growth under dictatorship regime has been slightly faster. However such societies lack positive social aspects of personal dignity and freedom.
(b) It can be said that in democracies, opportunities for economic growth are available to a large section of the population. This indicates that the chances of economic inequality is reduced.
(c) A democratic government is more likely to spend resources on public projects such as education, health, public transport, etc. which has a positive effect on the population. Thus holistically democracy scores much more than dictatorship.
(d) Democracy provides better conflict resolution by discussion and negotiation; rather than through violent means which destroys public resources, property and morale of the people. 

Question : Analyse any three values that make democracy better.
Answer : (a) Freedom of expression is granted in a democratic nation. For example, the role of media. It allows people to form groups, and indulge in peaceful protests to vent their grievances.
(b) It ensures transparency in its functioning, such as the recent introduction of the Right to Information Act.
(c) It enhances dignity of the individual. Democracies ensure rights to the individuals which allow them to develop to the fullest potential. Example: Fundamental Rights. 

Question : What are the expected outcomes of democracy? Explain.
Answer :  The expected outcomes of democracy are as follows :
(i) The government is accountable to the people.
(ii) The government is responsive to the needs of the people.
(iii) Economic growth and development reducing all forms of inequality and end of poverty is expected.
(iv) Accommodating all social diversities happen.
(v) It ensures dignity and freedom of the individuals. 

Question : Describe the favorable condition generally provided to people under a democratic rule.
Answer : Favorable conditions generally provided to people under a democratic rule are :
(i) It promotes dignity to citizens irrespective of caste, creed and religion.
(ii) It ensures freedom of the individual to express himself or herself.
(iii) It provides reservation for women and other advantages for discriminated groups so that they come up fast.  

Question : Describe the role of citizens in a democracy.
Answer :  The role of citizens in a democracy are as follows :
(i) Citizens must exercise their rights and freedom to get benefited from democratic set-up.
(ii) They must be aware of their rights and duties.
(iii) They should be aware of the local issues and greater problems the country is facing.
(iv) They must cooperate in maintaining law and order.
(v) People must be sensitive to the needs and interest of others.  

Question : Which values make democracy better than any other form of governments? Explain.
Answer :  Democracy means rule of people. That is of the people, for the people and by the people. Democracy is a form of government in which all eligible citizens participate equally—either directly or through elected representatives. Values it represent are :
(a) Freedom to citizens.
(b) Democracy represents the views and opinions of all the citizens of the country, whether in majority or minority.
(c) Solving conflicts and quarrels by discussion and negotiation.
(d) Dignity to the people of every section of the society. 

Question : “Some people think that democracy produces a less effective government.” Analyse the statement.
Answer :  It is true that some people think that democracy produces a less effective government because :
(i) Non-democratic rulers do not have to bother about deliberation in assemblies or worry about public opinion.
(ii) They can be very quick and efficient in decision making and implementation.
(iii) But democracy is based on the ideal of deliberation and negotiation. So some delay is bound to take place.
(iv) Some democracies fall short in providing a fair chance to everyone in selecting their leaders.
(v) Democratic governments do not have a very good record when it comes to sharing information with citizens.
(vi) Democracies often frustrate the needs of the people and often ignore the demands of a section of its population.  

Question : Does democracy help in promoting peaceful and harmonious relationships among the people?
Answer : Social differences exist in all societies, but democracy helps in promoting peaceful and harmonious relationships among the people of different religions, classes, castes and creeds. It offers political equality to all regardless of the group to which they belong. Though it is not possible to eliminate the social conflict entirely in all societies, yet, democracy helps in accommodating social diversities. It helps in promoting the dignity of an individual, women and ensures equality for discriminated and deprived sections of the society. People learn to respect those from different groups and learn to negotiate the social differences peacefully and through consititutional means. 

Question : Discuss the expected outcomes of democracy.
Answer : The expected outcomes of democracy are as follows:
(i) It enables the people to choose their representatives through a fair and free system.
(ii) People get varied options of forming opinion through a multi-party system, where in they can select their representatives as per their choice.
(iii) It helps in establishing a government which is accountable to the people.
(iv) The elected government is responsive to the needs and expectations of the people.
(v) It is a legitimate form of government which runs according to the rules and regulations provided by the constitution.
(vi) There is transparency in the system, i.e., people have the right to examine the process of decision-making.
(vii) People get freedom of expression.
(viii ) People are provided with fundamental rights which help in ensuring equality among the citizens.
(ix) The judiciary is impartial and independent in order to safeguard the rights of the people.
(x) There is a strong opposition party which acts as a watchdog to keep the working of the ruling party on track.
(xi) There is freedom of media and press.
(xii) The constitution has a written set of rules to demarcate the powers between the Centre and the States.
(xiii ) The integrity, unity and sovereignty of the country is maintained.
(xiv ) People are watchful and they participate actively in the decision-making process of government. 

Question : Is corruption a serious problem for Indian democratic system?
Answer : Yes, corruption is a serious problem for Indian democratic system. Corruption refers to getting money in exchange of offering unfair means to attain favours. Leaders offer money to win the elections. Wealthy people support the political parties for getting favours in return. It is often found that political leaders and high officials misuse their power and position for gathering money. There are numerous examples of cases of corruption in India, like Hawala Kand, Bofors Scandal, Fodder Scam, etc. However, this doesn't indicate that non-democratic governments are free from corruption. Moreover, on getting revealed, the offender legally gets severe punishments. It also doesn't mean that democratic form of government is less efficient than nondemocratic ones. As people elect their representatives in democracy, they have the power to not to elect the ruling government in case of dissatisfaction. In fact, complaints of the people are a testimony of the success of the system as the people believe that the system can be changed. Hence, democracy helps in making the people active citizens instead of being passive subjects.

Question : How are complaints treated as testimony to the success of democracy?
Answer : The complaints of the people are a testimony of the success of the system as the people believe that the system can be changed. When a democratic system is able to clear one exam, the expectations of the people rise and they expect more and more, to make the system even better. This is the reason for which people often complain about a democratic system, when they are not satisfied. People complain as they are aware about what's happening around them and trust that the system can improve if they approach higher authorities. Thus, a democratic system empowers the people from being mere subjects to enlightened citizens.

Question : Can you think of what and how the government knows about you and your family (for example ration cards and voter identity cards)? What are the sources of information for you about the government?
Answer : Census survey is conducted after every ten years for gathering demographic date regarding age, gender, education, caste and religion of the people. At the time of birth, death or marriage; registrations are done at the government institutions. Such a census data and birth/death certificates help in maintaining the demographic data about citizens of a country.
The citizens of a country can also acquire information regarding the working of the government through :
(i) Right to Information.
(ii) Candidates manifesto declared before elections regarding the policies and decisions taken by the government.

Question : Differentiate between Democracy and Dictatorship.
OR
How are the democratic governments better than other forms of governments? Compare.
Answer : Yes, the democratic governments are better than other forms of governments due to the following reasons:

Question : Cartoons below tell us about the disparities between the rich and poor. Should the gains of economic growth be evenly distributed ? How can the poor get a voice for a better share in a nation ? What can the poor countries do to receive a greater share in the world’s wealth ?

Answer : Yes, economic gains should be distributed evenly to eliminate economic inequalities. The poor gets a voice for a better share in a nation through their representation and participation in the decision-making process. The poor countries can receive a greater share in the world's wealth when they eliminate their mutual differences and internal conflicts.
Moreover, they have to hone the professional skills of the natives and have to exploit the natural resources and develop their technologies.

Question :  Democracy is a rule of the majority. The poor are in majority. So democracy must be a rule of the poor. How can this not be the case?
Answer : The rule of majority means that rule by majority views, it doesn't refer to majority in terms of religion, caste or wealth. In elections, any group can form a majority. Forming a different majority group by poor will further divide the society and can lead to conflicts. Democracy provides a chance to any one to form a majority at any point of time.

Question : Explain the characteristics of Democracy?
Answer : 1. Elected representatives
2. Elections
3. Civil liberties
4. Rules of law
5. Independent judiciary
6. Organized opposition parties
7. Freedom of religion of culture

Question : Give arguments to support or oppose the following assertions: 
(i) Industrialised countries can afford democracy but the poor need dictatorship to become rich.
(ii) Democracy can't reduce inequality of incomes between different citizens.
(iii) Government in poor countries should spend less on poverty reduction, health, education and spend more on industries and infrastructure.
(iv) In democracy all citizens have one vote, which means that there is absence of any domination and conflict.
Answer : (i) This argument is wrong as example of various poor countries have revealed great economic progress under democracy. A democratic system offers political equality to the poor. The economic resources are also distributed in a way to ensure the welfare and upliftment of the poor sections of the society.
(ii) This statement is wrong as democratic system offers basic amenities and healthcare facilities to the poor for improving their living standards. Hence, it helps in lowering the inequalities of wealth between different citizens.
(iii) Along with spending on industries and infrastructure, the government should also spend on eradication of poverty and improving healthcare and educational facilities. This will help in producing educated, well informed and productive citizens who will contribute towards the growth and development of the country. Moreover, such citizens will also prove to be an asset for industrial and infrastructural development.
(iv) One vote for everyone ensures political equality among citizens. However, it doesn't ensure absence of domination or conflict. Although, there are conflicting interests and domination between different groups of the society, yet, democracy provides ways to resolve them.

Souce/Case Based Questions 

Question : Read the extract given below and answer the following questions: 

Now look at the other side - democracy ensures that decision making will be based on norms and procedures. So, a citizen who wants to know if a decision was taken through the correct procedures can find this out. She has the right and the means to examine the process of decision making. This is known as transparency. This factor is often missing from a non-democratic government. Therefore, when we are trying to find out the outcomes of democracy, it is right to expect democracy to produce a government that follows procedures and is accountable to the people. We can also expect that the democratic government develops mechanisms for citizens to hold the government accountable and mechanisms for citizens to take part in decision making whenever they think fit. 

Answer the following MCQs by choosing the most appropriate option: 

(i) Which of the following is a useful device to see the transparency in government?
(a) RTE
(b) RTI
(c) ITR
(d) ITI
Answer : (b) RTI. 

(ii) Find out the incorrect statement about democracy:
(a) Government is accountable, responsible and legitimate
(b) Transparency means people can see the process of decision making
(c) Citizens are most powerful and can know about every decision of government
(d) Democracy is the only form of government where people can take part in decision making
Answer : (c) Citizens are most powerful and can know about every decision of government. 

(iii) Which of the following is not the merit of democracy?
(a) Transparency
(b) Accountability
(c) Participation of people in decision making
(d) Lot of time is used to minimize mistakes
Answer : (d) Lot of time is used to minimize mistakes. 

(iv) Which of the following is not a device used by government to keep watch on people?
(a) PAN
(b) Aadhar Card
(c) Right to information
(d) Bank account details
Answer : (c) Right to information.

Question : Read the source given below and answer the questions that follow:

If you consider all democracies and all dictatorships for the fifty years between 1950 and 2000, dictatorships have slightly higher rate of economic growth. The inability of democracy to achieve higher economic development worries us. But this alone cannot be reason to reject democracy. As you have already studied in economics, economic development depends on several factors: country's population size, global situation, cooperation from other countries, economic priorities adopted by the country, etc. However, the difference in the rates of economic development between less developed countries with dictatorships and democracies is negligible. Democracies are based on political equality. All individuals have equal weight in electing representatives. Parallel to the process of bringing individuals into the political arena on an equal footing, we find growing number of economic inequalities. A small number of ultra-rich enjoy a highly disproportionate share of wealth and incomes. Not only that, their share in the total income of the country has been increasing. Those at the bottom of the society have very little to depend upon. Their incomes have been declining. In actual life, democracies do not appear to be very successful in reducing economic inequalities. The poor constitute a large proportion of our voters and no party will like to lose their votes. Yet democratically elected governments do not appear to be as keen to address the question of poverty as you would expect them to. The situation is much worse in some other countries. In Bangladesh, more than half of its population lives in poverty.

Answer the following MCQs by choosing the most appropriate option:

(i) What type of nation have higher rate of economic growth asrefl ected between 1950 and 2000?
(a) Democracy
(b) Dictatorship
(c) Monarchy
(d) Communist
Answer : (b) Dictatorship

(ii) The difference in the rates of what type of developmentbet ween less developed countries with dictatorship and democracies is negligible?
(a) Social development
(b) Political progress
(c) Historical development
(d) Economic development
Answer : (d) Economic development

(iii) How are democracies based on political equality?
(a) Democracies lead to a just distribution of goods and opportunities.
(b) Democracies do not appear to be very successful in reducing economic inequalities.
(c) All individuals have equal weight in electing representatives.
(d) It promotes dignity and freedom of the individual.
Answer : (c) All individuals have equal weight in electing representatives.

(iv) In which country more than half of population live in poverty?
(a) Bangladesh
(b) India
(c) Japan
(d) Poland
Answer : (a) Bangladesh 

Question : Read the sources given below and answer the questions that follow:

Over a hundred countries of the world today claim and practice some kind of democractic politics: they have formal constitutions, they hold elections, they have parties and they guarantee rights of citizens. While these features are common to most of them, these democracies are very much different from each other in terms of their social situations, their economic achievements and their cultures. Clearly, what may be achieved or not achieved under each of these democracies will be very different.

(i) Explain the fascination for democracy amongst various countries.
Answer : Fascination about democracy amongst various countries is because:
1. It gives its people freedom of life and freedom of speech.
2. A democratic country has a strong economic system and all the people get equal opportunities.

(ii) Explain democracy on the basis of expected and actual outcome.
Answer : The actual democracies on the basis of expected and actual outcomes are explained below:
1. Regular, free and fair elections, open public debate on major policies and legislations.
2. Citizens right to information about the government and its functioning.
Democracies on the basis of actual outcomes are explained below:
1. Holding elections that offer a fair chance to everyone.
2. Not all decisions are discussed in a public debate.
3. Sharing information with people rarely happens.
4. Democracies have never been free of corruption and government has failed to pay attention to the needs and expectations of people.

Question : Read the extract given below and answer the following questions:

Take the case of dignity of women. Most societies across the world were historically male dominated societies. Long struggles by women have created some sensitivity today that respect to and equal treatment of women are necessary ingredients of a democratic society. That does not mean that women are actually always treated with respect. But once the principle is recognised, it becomes easier for women to wage a struggle against what is now unacceptable legally and morally. In a non-democratic set up, this unacceptability would not have legal basis because the principle of individual freedom and dignity would not have the legal and moral force there. The same is true of caste inequalities. Democracy in India has strengthened the claims of the disadvantaged and discriminated castes for equal status and equal opportunity. There are instances still of caste-based inequalities and atrocities, but these lack the moral and legal foundations. Perhaps it is the recognition that makes ordinary citizens values their democratic rights.

Answer the following MCQs by choosing the most appropriate option:

(i) The reason behind the discrimination of women in all fields is:
(a) They are less literate.
(b) They never claimed their rights.
(c) Most of the societies are patriarchal.
(d) They are less efficient as compare to men. 
Answer : (c) Most of the societies are patriarchal.

(ii) Why democracy is having better chance to remove caste discrimination ?
(a) In non-democracy, rulers are not getting the feedback.
(b) In democracy, people are having rights to express their feelings.
(c) In democracy, they can claim for equality and dignity.
(d) In democracy, people are more aware about caste related problems.
Answer : (c) In democracy, they can claim for equality and dignity.

(iii) Which of the following is not correct about Indian caste system?
(a) Castism is present in the society from ancient time.
(b) Now, condition is better than before.
(c) Laws played important role to remove caste based discrimination.
(d) More stringent laws are needed for total removal of castism.
Answer : (d) More stringent laws are needed for total removal of castism.

(iv) Find out the incorrect statement from the following:
(a) Now the condition of women is much better.
(b) Men have easily accepted the changes in the society.
(c) Still gender based discrimination is a big challenge.
(d) Feminist organisations have played important role to establish gender equality.
Answer : (b) Men have easily accepted the changes in the society.

Source/Extract Based Questions

Read the given extract and answer the following questions.

In a democracy, we are most concerned with ensuring that people will have the right to choose their rulers and people will have control over the rulers. Whenever possible and necessary, citizens should be able to participate in decision making, that affects them all.
Therefore, the most basic outcome of democracy should be that it produces a government that is accountable to the citizens, and responsive to the needs and expectations of the citizens. Some people think that democracy produces less effective government. It is, of course, true that non-democratic rulers are very quick and efficient in decision making and implementation,whereas, democracy is based on the idea of deliberation and negotiation. So, some delay is bound to take place.
But, because it has followed procedures, its decisions may be both more acceptable to the people and more effective. Moreover, when citizens want to know if a decision was taken through the correct procedures, they can find this out. They have the right and the means to examine the process of decision making. This is known as transparency. This factor is often missing from a non-democratic government. There is another aspect in which democratic government is certainly better than its alternatives: democratic government is legitimate
government. It may be slow, less efficient, not always very responsive, or clean. But a democratic government is people’s own government.

Answer the following MCQs by choosing the most appropriate option.

Question :  People’s right to choose their own rulers is called as the—
(a) Right to Initiate
(b) Right to Plebiscite
(c) Right to Vote
(d) Right to Referendum
Answer : (c) Right to Vote.

Question :  Which of the following options helps in promoting transparency in the governance?
(a) Right to education
(b) Right to information
(c) Right against exploitation
(d) Right to speech and expression
Answer : (b) Right to information.

Question :  _______ make/s the government legitimate.
(a) Credibility of politicians
(b) People's movements
(c) Free and fair elections
(d) Holding of powers
Answer : (c) Free and fair elections.

Question :  Decisions in a democracy are more acceptable to the people because they are—
(a) Taken swiftly and implemented quickly
(b) Taken by giving privileges to the people
(c) Taken through elites' votes
(d) Taken after following due processes
Answer : (d) Taken after following due processes.