CBSE Class 10 Democratic Politics Outcomes of Democracy Worksheet

 

Question. Modern Democracies maintain a Check and Balance System. Identify the correct option based on the Horizontal Power Sharing arrangement.
(A) Central Government, State Government, Local Bodies.
(B) Legislature, Executive, Judiciary.
(C) Among different social groups.
(D) Among different pressure groups.

Answer : B

Question. Study the picture and the answer the question that follows: 
Which of the following options best signifies this cartoon?
(A) Demand for separate state from Democratic government.
(B) Democratic Government is facing territorial issues with the bordering states.
(C) Democratic Government is coping with multiple pressures through accommodation.
(D) Democratic Government accepts demands based on a separate states.

Answer : C.

Question. Why is Democratic Government better thanother  alternatives? 
(A) It promotes equality among political parties.
(B) It helps in economic growth.
(C) It helps in creating a pollution-free environment.
(D) It promotes equality among citizens.

Answer : D.

Question. Which form of government is considered best? 
(A) Monarchy
(B) Democracy
(C) Communist
(D) Anarchy

Answer : B.

Question. What is meant by an Accountable government? 
(A) In an accountable a government, people have the right to elect the leaders to form government and if possible they participate in decision-making process.
(B) In an accountable government, people do not have the right to elect leaders.
(C) In an accountable government, people are a part of decision-making process.
(D) In an accountable government, only a privileged section of the society is allowed to vote.

Answer : A.

Question. What is meant by economic inequality? 
(A) It is a situation of equal distribution of Wealth.
(B) It is the unequal distribution of Income and opportunity between different groups in Society.
(C) It is the distribution of wealth on the basis of Gender.
(D) It is the distribution of wealth on the basis of education.

Answer : B.

Question. In which area does Democracy fail to achieve thesam e results as in Dictatorship? 
(A) Social development
(B) Economic development
(C) Political development
(D) Development on the basis of religion

Answer : B.

Question. Which system can reduce the possibility of tension and conflict among different groups of Society?
(A) Monarchy
(B) Anarchy
(C) Communism
(D) Democracy

Answer : D.

Question. Analyze the information given below, considering one of the following correct options:
"It is expected from a government that it should bring economic growth and development. But many democracies of the world are unable to fulfill this expectation because of population size, global situation, cooperation from other, countries, economic priorities, etc."
(A) Economic outcomes
(B) Economic growth and development
(C) Legitimate government
(D) Reduction of inequality and poverty

Answer : B.

Question. Analyze the information given below, considering one of the following correct options:
"Democracy stands much superior to any other form of government in promoting dignity and freedom of the individual. Every individual wants to receive respect from fellow beings. Often conflicts arise among individuals because some feel that they are not treated with due respect.
The passion for respect and freedom the basis of democracy."
(A) Dignity and freedom of disadvantaged groups.
(B) Dignity and freedom of women.
(C) Dignity and freedom of the citizens
(D) Accommodation of social diversity

Answer : C.

Question. Find the incorrect option from the following:
(A) Democracy enhances the dignity of the individual.
(B) It provides a method to resolve conflicts.
(C) Improves the quality of decision making.
(D) Allows room to make more mistakes.

Answer : D.

Question. Find the incorrect option from the following:
(A) Most societies across the world historically Female dominated societies.
(B) Long struggles by Women have created some sensitivity today.
(C) Respect and equal treatment of women areingre dients of a Democratic Society.
(D) That does not mean that Women are always treated with respect.

Answer : A.

Assertion and Reason Based MCQs

Directions : In the following questions, A statement of Assertion (A) is followed by a statement of Reason (R).
Mark the correct choice as:
(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 and R is true.

Question. Assertion (A): Transparency means openness, communication and accountability of the government.
Reason (R): Transparency is considered missing in a Democratic government.
Answer : C.

Question. Assertion (A): Bangladesh is a country where more than half of its population lives in luxury.
Reason (R): Sometimes the poor find it difficult to meet their basic needs of life, such as food, clothing, house, education and health.
Answer : D.

Question. Assertion (A): At least one fourth of the globe is still not under Democratic government.
Reason (R): Because the challenge for Democracy in these parts of the world is very stark.
Answer : A.

Question. Assertion (A): Power sharing is the spirit of Democracy.
Reason (R): As the Rights of the people are notlimited  to the Right to Vote, stand in elections and form Political Organizations.
Answer : B.

Question. Assertion (A): Democratic reforms are to be brought about principally through political practice.
Reason (R): Any proposal for political reforms should think only about what is a good solution but not care about who will implement it and how.
Answer : C.

Question. Assertion (A): The third challenge deepening of Democracy is usually not faced by every Democracy in one form or another.
Reason (R): This involves strengthening the country and practices of Democracy.
Answer : D.

Case-based MCQs

I. Read the given extract and answer the questions that follow: 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 options:

Question. People’s Right to choose their Rulers is called as the:
(A) Right to Initiate
(B) Right to Plebiscite
(C) Right to Vote
(D) Right to Referendum

Answer : C.

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.

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.

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.

II. Read the given extract and answer the questions that follow:

If Democracies are expected to produce good governments, then is it not fair to expect that they would also produce development? Evidence shows that in practice many democracies did not fulfil this expectation. 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 the 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. Overall, we cannot say that democracy is a guarantee of economic development. But we can expect democracy not to lag behind dictatorship in this respect. When we find such significant 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.

Answer the following MCQs by choosing themost  appropriate options:

Question. Between Democracies and Dictatorships, who had a slightly higher rate of economic growth?
(A) Democracies
(B) Dictatorships
(C) Both
(D) None of them

Answer : B.

Question. The difference in the rates of economic development between less development countries with Dictatorships and Democracies is:
(A) Very vast
(B) Slightly noticeable
(C) Very low
(D) Negligible

Answer : D.

Question. What is meant by Economic Inequality?
(A) It is a situation of equal distribution of wealth.
(B) It is the unequal distribution of income and opportunity between different groups in society.
(C) It is the distribution of wealth on the basis of gender.
(D) It is the distribution of wealth on the basis of education.

Answer : B.

Question. Which Development depends on country's population, size, global situation and cooperation from other countries?
(A) Social Development
(B) Financial Development
(C) Economic Development
(D) Political Development

Answer : C.

III. Read the given extract and answer the questions that follow: 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 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. Sometimes they find it difficult to meet their basic needs of life, such as food, clothing, house, education and health. 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. The situation is much worse in some other countries. In Bangladesh, more than half of its population lives in poverty. People in several poor countries are now dependent on the rich countries even for food supplies.

Answer the following MCQs by choosing the most appropriate options:

Question. Democracies are based on Political:
(A) Consequences
(B) Equality
(C) Diversity
(D) Leaders

Answer : B.

Question. Which Country’s more than 50% population lives in poverty?
(A) Myanmar
(B) Pakistan
(C) Bangladesh
(D) India

Answer : C.

Question. In which manner does the share of poor people affects the total income of a Democratic Country?
(A) Decreasing
(B) Constant
(C) Increasing
(D) None of these

Answer : A.

Question. People in poor countries are dependent on the rich countries for ___________.
(A) Food
(B) Clothing
(C) Education
(D) All of the above

Answer : D.

 

Very Short Answer Type Questions

Question. How can Democratic reforms be carried out by politically conscious citizens?
Answer : Democratic reforms can be carried out by politically conscious citizens by increasing and improving the quality of political participation i.e., active participation in the functioning of the government. 

Question. How can democratic reforms be carried out by movement?
Answer : Democratic reforms carried out by movements increase and improve the quality of political participation. 

Question. Which form of government is better – Democratic or Non-democratic?
Answer : Democratic government.

Question. What is meant by transparency?
Answer : To examine the process of decision-making in a Democracy is known as transparency.

Question. How can you say that Democracies are based on Political Equality? 
Answer : Democracy gives political equality by granting every individual the Right to vote.

Question. What do you understand by Economic growth? 
Answer : Increase in domestic production and Services leading to all round growth in people's standard of living is known as Economic growth.

Short Answer Type Questions

Question. Establish the relationship between Democracy and Development.
OR
Explain the relationship between Democracy and Development. 
Answer : The relationship between Democracy and Development are: Democracies are expected to produce development. Development depends upon many factors, i.e., size of the population, global situation, cooperation from other countries, etc. In democracies, time is taken on discussion and reaching a decision. So, it is slow, but it is not unjust or inappropriate. 

Question. When is Democracy considered successful? Explain.
Answer : Democracy is considered to be successful when:
(i) The Rulers elected by the people take all major decisions and not the rich and powerful.
(ii) The Elections offer a free choice and opportunity to the people.
(iii) The choice available to all the people is based on political equality. 

Question. “Some people think that democracy produces a less effective government." Analyse the statement.
Answer : It is true 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 majorities and public opinion.
(ii) They can be very quick and efficient in decisionmaking and implementation.
(iii) But Democracy is based on the idea of deliberation and negotiation. So, some delay is bound to take place.
(iv) Most democracies fall short of elections that provide a fair chance to everyone.
(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 majority of their population

Question. State any three merits of Democracy. 
Answer : Merits of Democracy are as follows:
(i) Democracy assures equality in every sphere of life like political, social and economic.
(ii) It upholds basic individual liberties like freedom of speech, etc.
(iii) Due obedience to laws.

Question. "Transparency is the most important feature of Democracy." Analyse.
Answer : Transparency is the most important feature of Democracy:
(i) Democracy ensures that decision-making will be based on certain norms and procedures.
(ii) So, a citizen who wants to know if a decision was taken through correct procedures can find this out.
(iii) The citizen has the right and the means to examine the process of decision-making. This is known as transparency.

Question. Discuss any three factors that describe the successful working of democracy in India.
Answer : The factors which are responsible for the Successful Working of Democracy in India are:
(i) In India, there is an autonomous Election Commission. Free and fair elections are held periodically. The people elect their representatives through the Election Procedure.
(ii) The local governments take care of the issues about their regions. The Panchayati Raj system enables people to participate in governance.
(iii) Freedom of press and media enables the people to be well informed about governmental activities.
(iv) In India, there are a large number of Political Parties with different bases. They compete with each other to get public support. They participate in the Democratic process.
(v) In India, an independent judiciary is very important for the success of Democracy.

Question. What are the expected Outcomes of Democracy? Explain. 
Answer : The expected Outcomes of Democracy are as follows:
(i) A government that is chosen and accountable to the people is called a Democratic government.
(ii) A government that is responsive to the needs of the people.
(iii) Economic growth and development reducing all forms of Inequality and end of Poverty.
(iv) Accommodating all social diversities.
(v) Ensuring the dignity and freedom of the individuals.

Question. Examine the Political Outcome of Democracy.
Answer : (i) Right to the citizens to choose their leaders and keep a check on them.
(ii) If required people can participate in decisionmaking either directly or through indirectly or through Representatives
(iii) It produces an accountable, responsive and legitimate government. 

Question. “Democratic governments in practice are known as accountable.” Support the statement with arguments.
Answer : Democratic governments in practice are accountable because:
(i) It is right to expect Democracy to form a government that follows procedures and is accountable to the people. (ii) It is also expected that the Democratic government develops mechanisms for citizens to take part in decision making whenever they think it is fit.
(iii) The democratic government is accountable to the people. If it ignores the will of the people, they will not elect their ruler in the next General Election.
(iv) The procedures and Decision-making process should be transparent for a democratic government to be accountable to the people.

Question. “Democratic government is Legitimate government.” Support the statement with arguments.
OR
Why is Democratic government known as Legitimate government?
Answer : (i) A Democratic government is called a Legitimate government because it is the people’s government.
(ii) It may be slow, less efficient and not very responsive and clean, but it is people’s government.
(iii) There is overwhelming support for the idea of democracy all over the world. People of South Asia, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, India, Pakistan and Nepal do not doubt the suitability of democracy for their own country.
(iv) People wish to be ruled by representatives elected by them. Democracy’s ability to generate its support makes it more legitimate. (Any three)

Question. Why has Political Funding become a threat to Democracy?
Answer : Most the political parties are dependent on money given by big business houses. That’s why, the poor and middle classes do not agree to participate in the electoral process. Hence, a majority of people keep away from politics and have little voice in politics.

Question. How is Democracy accountable and responsible to the needs and expectations of the Citizens? Analyse.
OR
How does a democracy produce an accountable, responsive and legitimate government?
Answer : Democracy produces an accountable, Responsive and Legitimate government as:
(i) People have the right to choose their Rulers and have control over the Rulers.
(ii) Whenever possible and necessary, they should participate in decision-making on issues that affect them all.
(iii) Democracy produces a government, which is accountable to the citizens.
(iv) Democracy is based on the idea of liberation and negotiation.
(v) Decision-making is based on norms and procedures and its transparency.

Question. How is Democratic government known as Responsive government? Explain with an example.
Answer : A Democratic government has to be responsive to the needs of its citizens.
(i) Through pressure groups, and public protests, the democratic government can check the popularity of its decisions and mechanism of administering justice. (ii) A government that can respond to grievances faster can avoid confrontation and provide good governance.

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 open public debates. (Any three)

Question. ‘It may be reasonable to expect from a Democratic government that is attentive to the needs and demands of the people and is largely free of corruption.’ Explain this statement in three points.
Answer : Corruption of government:
(i) Democracies often frustrate the needs of people and often ignore the demands of the majority.
(ii) The routine tales of corruption are enough to convince us that democracy is not free from this evil.
(iii) But a Democratic government is people’s own government and pays heed to their demands.
(iv) People have believed that democracy will be attentive and make policies that will free the country from corruption. (Any three)

Question. How Democracies have been able to reduce Poverty? Elaborate. 
Answer : Democracies do not appear to be very successful in reducing economic inequalities. Although the majority of voters constitute the poverty ridden group, 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 of the countries where people depend upon rich countries for food supplies. But even then, democracy is favoured because it provides the opportunity to change the rulers.

Question. How is Social diversity accommodated in Democracy? Explain with examples.
OR
What are the two conditions to accommodate Social diversities in a Democracy? Mention any one exception to this.
OR
What are the conditions under which Democracies accommodate Social diversities? 
Answer : (i) It is necessary to understand that democracy is not simply ruled by the majority. The majority always needs to work with the minority so that governments function to represent the general view.
(ii) It is also necessary that rule by majority does not become rule by the majority community in terms of religion or race or linguistic group. The exception is Sri Lanka where majoritarianism is followed. 

Question. “Democracy accommodates Social diversities.” Support the statement with examples.
Answer : Democracy accommodates social diversities:
(i) Democracies develop a procedure to conduct their competition. This reduces the possibility of social tensions becoming explosive or violent.
(ii) No society can fully and permanently resolve conflicts among different groups. But we can certainly learn to respect these differences and can evolve a mechanism to negotiate these differences.
(iii) Ability to handle social differences, divisions and conflicts is thus, a definite plus point of democratic regimes.
(iv) Example: Belgium has successfully negotiated differences among its ethnic population. This reduces the possibility of tensions.

Question. Explain the condition under which dignity and freedom of the citizens can be promoted.
Answer : The conditions are as follows:
(i) To promote the dignity and freedom of the citizens, all individuals should be treated as equals. Once this principle is recognised, it becomes easier for individuals to wage a struggle against what is not acceptable legally and morally.
(ii) Claims of the disadvantaged and discriminated against for equal status and equal opportunity should be strengthened. Inequalities and atrocities lack moral and legal foundations. 

Question. Describe the favourable conditions generally provided to people under a Democratic rule. 
Answer : Favourable conditions generally provided to people under a Democratic rule are:
(i) It promotes dignity to everyone irrespective of caste, creed and religion.
(ii) It ensures the freedom of the individual.
(iii) It provides equal status and opportunity.
(iv) It provides positive reservation for Women and other advantages for discriminated groups. (Any three)

Question. Explain any three weaknesses of Democracy. 
Answer :
(i) Democracies take more time in Decision-making.
(ii) Democracies fall short of elections that provide a fair chance to everyone and subjecting every decision to public debate.
(iii) The routine tales of corruption are enough to convince that democracies are not free of evil.

Question. Explain the ways in which Democracy can be redefined to make democracy more effective.
Answer : Ways in which democracy can be redefined to make democracy more effective:
(i) Ensures that views of the minority are respected.
(ii) Eliminates caste, religion and gender-based discrimination.
(iii) People enjoy extensive rights from right to vote to participate in elections.
(iv) People enjoy social and economic rights. (Any three)

Long Answer Type Questions

Question. "Democracy is based on the idea of deliberation and negotiation". Examine the statement. 
Answer : Democracy is based on the idea of deliberation and negotiation:
(i) Democracy gives importance to deliberation and public opinion.
(ii) The Democratic government will take more time to follow procedures before arriving at a decision.
(iii) Its decisions may be both more acceptable to the people and more effective.
(iv) Democracy ensures that decision making will be based on norms and procedures.
(v) Transparency as persons have the right and the means to examine the process of decision making.
(vi) It follows procedures and is accountable to the people.
(vii) The democratic government develops mechanisms for citizens to hold the government accountable.
(viii) Democratic government follows mechanisms for citizens to take part in decision making whenever they think fit. (Any other relevant point)

Question. Describe any five Outcomes of Democracy. 
Answer : Five Outcomes of Democracy:
(i) Accountable, responsive and legitimate government.
(ii) Economic growth and development.
(iii) Reduction of inequality and poverty.
(iv) Accommodation of social diversity.
(v) Dignity and freedom of the citizens.
(vi) Any other relevant point to be explained. (Any five points to be explained.)

Question. Describe any five factors that make Democracy a better form of government than other alternatives. 
OR "Democracy is a better form of government than any other form of government". Justify the statement.
OR “Democracy is a better form of government than any other form of government.” Analyse the statement with arguments.
OR How are the Democratic governments better than the other forms of governments? Compare.
OR Why do we feel that Democracy is a better form of government than any other form? Explain.
Answer : Democracy is better form of government than other alternatives:
(i) Promotes equality among citizens.
(ii) Enhances the dignity of the individual.
(iii) Improves the quality of decision making.
(iv) Provides a method to resolve conflicts.
(v) Allows room to correct mistakes.
(vi) Any other relevant point. (Any five points to be discussed)

Question. "A Democratic government is efficient and effective." Analyse the statement.
OR “The cost of time that Democracy pays is perhaps worth it.” Justify.
Answer : (i) 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.
(ii) In contrast, the Democratic government will take more time to follow procedures before arriving at a decision.
(iii) However, because it has followed procedures, its decisions may be more acceptable to the people and more effective. So, the cost of time that democracy pays is perhaps worth it. 

Question. Describe the importance of Democratic government as an accountable and legitimate government.
Answer : Importance of Democratic Government:
(i) It produces a government that is accountable to citizens.
(ii) It responses to the needs and expectations of citizens.
(iii) It ensures that decision making will be based on norms and procedures for transparency making it accountable.
(iv) It has great success in setting up regular and free elections.
(iv) Democracy’s ability to generate its own support is the most positive feature.

Question. "Democracies do not appear to be very successful in reducing economic inequalities". Justify the statement.
OR “Democracies are not appearing to be very successful in reducing economic inequalities.” Analyse the statement.
Answer : Success of Democracies in reducing economic inequalities:
(i) We find growing economic inequalities in democratic countries.
(ii) A small number of ultra-rich enjoys a highly disproportionate share of wealth and incomes.
(iii) Their share in the total income of the country has been increasing.
(iv) The Income of the poor has been decline sometimes they find it difficult to meet their basic needs of life.
(v) Though Democracies gradually reducing the number of poor from poverty and hunger.
(vi) Any other relevant point to be justified.

Question. "Democracy has failed to reduce Economic Inequality and Poverty." Do you agree? Give arguments in support of your answer. 
Answer : In actual life, Democracies do not appear to be reducing inequalities.
(i) The poor constitute a large proportion of our voters and no party likes to lose their votes, yet democratically elected governments have not addressed the question of poverty as one would have expected them to.
(ii) The people in several poor countries are now dependent on rich countries even for food supplies.
Arguments in support:
(i) It enhances the dignity of the individuals.
(ii) It improves the quality of decision-making.
(iii) It provides a method to resolve conflicts.

Question. “Democracy plays an important role to accommodate Social diversity.” Support the statement with examples. 
Answer : Democracy accommodates Social Diversities:
(i) Democracy develops a procedure to conduct competition between various social groups.
(ii) Democracy ensures that every citizen has a chance of being in majority at some point in time.
(iii) In a democracy, different communities can peacefully voice their grievances.
(iv) In democracy the majority needs to work with minority and therefore special rights are provided to minorities.
Example:
(i) Belgium has successfully negotiated differences among its ethnic population. This reduces the possibility of tensions.
(ii) In countries like India, accommodation of social division has been done by providing political power to certain backward classes. 

Question. "Respect and equal treatment of Women are necessary ingredients of a Democratic Society". Examine the statement.
Answer : Respect and equal treatment of women are necessary ingredients of a Democratic Society.
(i) Economic independence or access to an inherited or self-generated income is considered to be the major means of empowering Women.
(ii) Equal political and civil rights as men.
(iii) Ways of autonomy and freedom.
(vi) Distributive justice to reduce inequalities in resources and power.
(v) Love, universal brotherhood, sincerity, honesty and integrity of character, firm attitude of rendering help. (vi) Removing social evils including violence, torture, humiliation, etc. (Any five points to be explained)

Question. "Democracy stands much superior to any other form of government in promoting dignity and freedom of the individual." Justify this statement.
OR
"Democracy is very important for promoting dignity and freedom of the citizens." Support this statement with arguments.
OR
“Democracy stands much superior in promoting dignity and freedom of the citizens”. Justify the statement.
OR
Explain with examples, how the dignity and freedom of citizens are best guaranteed in a Democracy.
Answer : Democracy stands much superior to any other form of government in promoting dignity and freedom of the individual:
(i) Every individual wants to receive respect from fellow beings.
(ii) The passion for respect and freedom are the basis of Democracy.
(iv) Democracy in India has strengthened the claims of the disadvantaged and discriminated groups for equal status and equal opportunities.
(v) It provides methods to resolve conflicts.
(vi) Any other relevant point. (Any five points to be explained)

Question. “Democracies lead to peaceful and harmonious life among Citizens.” Justify this statement.
Answer : Democracy leads to peaceful and harmonious life among citizens:
(i) Democracy accommodates various social divisions.
(ii) Democracy reduces the possibility of tensions becoming explosive and violent.
(iii) Ability to handle social differences and conflicts among different groups is a plus point of Democracy.
(iv) Democracy develops procedure to conduct healthy competitions among different groups in a society.
(v) Democracy respects differences and provides mechanism to resolve them.
(vi) Democracy always accommodates minority view.
(vii) Any other relevant point.

Question. "Complaints are treated as testimony to the success of Democracy." Justify this statement.
OR How are complaints treated as testimony to the success of Democracy? Explain.
Answer : Complaints are treated as testimony: It shows that people have developed awareness and the ability to expect and to look critically at power holders and the high and the mighty. A public expression of dissatisfaction with democracy shows the success of the democratic project. It transforms people from the status of a subject into that of a citizen. (To be assessed as a whole.)

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 the Democratic project” as:
(i) It shows that people have developed awareness and the ability to expect.
(ii) People look critically at power holders. They want to make democracy better.
(iii) They come up with expressions and complaints.
(iv) They value their Democratic rights.

Question. Describe the role of citizens in a democracy.
Answer : The Role of citizens in a Democracy are as follows:
(i) Citizens exercise their rights and freedoms and get benefited from the Democratic setup.
(ii) They must be aware of their Rights and Duties.
(iii) They should be aware of the issues and problems the country is facing.
(iv) They must cooperate in maintaining law and order.
(v) People must consider other‘s needs and interests also.

Question. "Democracies lead to peaceful and harmonious life among citizens." Support the statement with examples. 
Answer : Democracies lead to peaceful and harmonious life among Citizens:
(ii) Democracy reduces the possibility of tensions becoming explosive and violent.
(iii) Ability to handle social differences and conflicts among different groups is a plus point of Democracy.
(iv) Democracy develops a procedure to conduct healthy competitions among different groups in a Society.
(v) Democracy respects differences and provides a mechanism to resolve them.
(vi) Democracy always accommodates minority views. (Any five)

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 in practice because of the following reasons:
(i) The decision-making process in a Democracy is time-taking, whereby justice delayed is justice denied.
(ii) The tyranny of the majority overrides the will of the Minority.
(iii) Corruption and red-tapism dominate the functioning of Democracies.
(iv) An illiterate and uninformed electorate fails to give itself a legitimate and accountable government.
(v) The role of charismatic leaders and dynastic politics dominates political cultures.

Question. “Democratic government is legitimate government?” Support the statement with arguments.
Answer:
Democratic government is a legitimate government. It may be slow, less efficient, not always very responsive or clean. However, a democratic government is peoples’ own government. That is why there is an overwhelming support for the idea of democracy all over the world. People’s wish to be ruled by representatives elected by them. As a democratic government is peoples’ own government, they believe that democracy is suitable for their country as it is a legitimate government. Democracy’s ability to generate its own support is itself an outcome that cannot be ignored.

Question.“Democracy accommodates social diversities.” Support the statement with examples.
Answer:
“Democracy accommodates social diversities” in the following ways:
1. Democracies develop a procedure to conduct their competition. This reduces the possibility of these tensions becoming explosive or violent.
2. No society can fully and permanently resolve conflicts among different groups. However, we can certainly learn to respect these differences and can evolve mechanism to negotiate these differences.
Example, Belgium has successfully negotiated differences among ethnic population. This reduces the possibility of tensions.
3. Ability to handle social differences, divisions and conflicts is thus a definite plus point of democratic regimes.

Question. Analyse any three values that make democracy better.
Answer:
We feel that democracy is a better form of government than any other form of government because:
1. Democracy promotes equality among citizens.
2. It enhances dignity of individual. It promotes dignity of women and strengthens the claims of the disadvantaged.
3. It improves the quality of decision-making. There is transparency in a democracy.
4. It provides methods to resolve conflicts.
5. Democracy allows room to correct mistakes.

Question. On the basis of which values will it be a fair expectation that democracy should produce a harmonious social life? Explain.10.
Answer:
No society can fully and permanently resolve conflicts among different groups. However, we can certainly learn to respect these differences and evolve a mechanism to negotiate the differences.Belgium is an example of how successfully differences were negotiated among ethnic groups.
Therefore, democracy is best suited to accommodate various social divisions as it usually develops a procedure to conduct their competition. However, the example of Sri Lanka shows how distrust between two communities turned into widespread conflict. Thus, a democracy must fulfil the following conditions and be based on these values in order to achieve a harmonious social life—
1. Majority and minority opinions are not permanent. Democracy is not simply rule by majority opinion. The majority needs to work with minority so that government may function to represent the general view.
2. Rule by majority does not become rule by majority community in terms of religion or race or linguistic groups, etc.
3. Democracy remains democracy so long as every citizen has a chance of being in majority at some point of time. No individual should be debarred from participating in a democracy based on religion, caste, community, creed and other such factors.

Question. Why do we feel that democracy is a better form of government than any other form? Explain.
Answer: Democracy is a better form of government than any other form because:
1. It is based on the idea of deliberation and negotiation. Thus the necessary delay in implementation.
2. Decisions are acceptable to people and are more effective.
3. A citizen has the right and the means to examine the process of decision-making. There is transparency in a democracy.
4. Democratic government is a legitimate government, people’s own government.
5. Ability to handle differences, decisions and conflicts is a positive point of democratic regimes.
6. Democracy has strengthened the claims of the disadvantaged and discriminated castes for equal status and equal opportunity.

Question. Why do we feel that democracy is a better form of government than any other form of government?
Explain
Or
How do you feel that democracy is better than any other form of government?
Explain.
Or
“Democracy is more effective than its other alternatives.” Justify the statement."
Answer:
We feel that democracy is a better form of government than any other form of government because:
1. Democracy promotes equality among citizens.
2. It enhances dignity of individual. It promotes dignity of women and strengthens the claims of the disadvantaged.
3. It improves the quality of decision-making. There is transparency in a democracy.
4. It provides methods to resolve conflicts.
5. Democracy allows room to correct mistakes.

Question. How do democracies accommodate social diversity? Explain with examples.
Or
Explain the conditions in which democracies are able to accommodate social diversities.
Or
“Democracies lead to peaceful and harmonious life among citizens”. Support the statement with suitable examples.
Answer:
No society can fully and permanently resolve conflicts among different groups. However, we can certainly learn to respect these differences and evolve a mechanism to negotiate the differences.
Belgium is an example of how successfully differences were negotiated among ethnic groups.
Therefore, democracy is best suited to accommodate various social divisions as it usually develops a procedure to conduct their competition. However, the example of Sri Lanka shows how distrust between two communities turned into widespread conflict, and thus a democracy must fulfil the following two conditions in order to achieve a harmonious social life:
1. Majority and minority opinions are not permanent. Democracy is not simply rule by majority opinion. The majority needs to work with minority so that government may function to represent the general view.
2. Rule by majority does not become rule by majority community in terms of religion or race or linguistic groups, etc.
3. Democracy remains democracy so long as every citizen has a chance of being in majority at some point of time. No individual should be debarred from participating in a democracy on the basis of religion, caste, community, creed and other such factors..

Question. “Most destructive feature of democracy is that its examination never gets over.” Support the statement with appropriate arguments.14.
Answer:
Suitable arguments:
1. As people get some benefits of democracy, they ask for more.
2. People always come up with more expectations from the democratic set up.
3. They also have complaints against democracy.
4. More and more suggestions and complaints by the people is also a testimony to the success of democracy.
5. A public expression of dissatisfaction with democracy shows the success of the democratic project.

Question. “Democracy is seen to be good in principle but felt to be not so good in practice.” Justify the statement.
Answer:
If we look at some of the democratic policies being implemented in more than one hundred countries of the world, democracy seems to be good. For example, having a formal Constitution, holding regular elections, guaranteeing the citizens certain rights, working for the welfare of the people etc. make us advocate that democracy is good.
However, if we look in terms of social situations, their economic achievements and varied cultures, we find a very big difference in most of the democracies. The vast economic disparities, social injustice based on discrimination, standard of life, sex discrimination, etc. create many doubts about the merits of democracy. Whenever some of our expectations are not met, we start blaming the idea of democracy.
Since democracy is a form of government, it can only create conditions for achieving our goals if they are reasonable

 

 DEMOCRATIC POLITICS

CHAPTER: 7 – OUTCOMES OF DEMOCRACY

1 “Democracy is better form of government than other forms of governments”. Justify the statement.

2 Evaluate the most basic outcome of democracy as the people will have the right to choose?

OR

Is democratic government efficient and effective?

OR

‘Democracy is an accountable, responsive and legitimate form government’. Explain (CCE QUESTION- March-2011)

1. Most basic outcomes 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.

2. 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. So, the cost of time that democracy pays is perhaps worth it.

3. 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 decisionmaking. This is known as transparency.

4. 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.

3 How do we measure the outcomes of democracy?

Ans:

1. Regular free and fair elections, open public debate of major policies, legislations and ‘Right to Information’ about the government and it’s functioning.

2. Democracies have had greater success in setting up regular free and fair elections and in setting up conditions for open public debate.

3. In other terms it may be reasonable to expect from a democracy a government that is attentive to the needs and demands of the people and is largely free of corruption.

4. ‘Democratic government is legitimate government’. It may be slow, less efficient, not always very responsive or clean. But democratic government is people’s own government. So there is an overwhelming support for the idea of democracy all over the world.

4 Assess the economic growth and development in democratic countries.

5 Study the table given below and answer the questions that follow:

Rates of economic growth for different countries, 1950 – 2000

i. What is the rate of economic growth of all dictatorial regimes?

ii. Mention any two reasons why economic growth rate alone cannot be a reason to reject democracy.

(CBSE QUESTION- August,2009) (Answer this Q/A in your class work book)

6 How does the democratic government address the problem of economic inequality?

Ans:

a) ‘It is reasonable to expect democracies to reduce economic disparities’. 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 economic inequalities.

b) 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.

c) Those at the bottom of the society have very little to depend upon. Their incomes have been declining. Sometimes they find it difficult to meet their basic needs of life, such as food, shelter and clothing.

d) The poor constitute a large proportion of our voters and no party will like to lose their votes. Yet democratically elected governments do not seem to be as keen to address the problem of poverty as we expect.

7 How does democracy lead to peaceful and harmonious life among citizens? Explain

OR

Is democracy a better form of government to resolve social differences? Explain

a) ‘It is fair to expect that democracy can produce a harmonious social life’. No society can fully and permanently resolve conflicts among different groups. But we certainly learn to respect these differences and we can also evolve mechanisms to negotiate the differences. Democracy is best suited to produce this outcome.

b) Non-democratic regimes often turn a blind eye to or suppress internal social differences. Ability to handle social differences, divisions and conflicts is thus a plus point of democratic regimes. (CBSE QUESTION- March 2009)

8 What are the conditions under which democracies accommodate social diversities?

OR

Explain with examples how democracy can accommodate diversity. (CCE QUESTION- March-2011)

Ans:

1. Democracy is simply not the rule of the majority. In democracy the majority works with minority and the government represents the general view of citizens.

2. Rule by majority does not mean that it should be the rule of the majority community, race or linguistic groups. Different persons or groups get to be a majority at some point of time in the decision making process or during elections in a democracy. Example; Sri Lanka 

9 How does democracy promote dignity and freedom of the citizens? Explain

Ans:

1. Democracy stands much superior to any other form of government in promoting dignity and freedom of the individual.

2. Democracies throughout the world have recognized the passion for respect and freedom of the individual.

3. Most of the societies across the world were historically male dominated societies; respect and equal treatment of women are necessary ingredients of a democratic society.

4. Democracy in India has strengthened the claims of the disadvantaged and discriminated castes for equal status and equal opportunity.

10 What is the most distinctive feature about democracy?

Ans:

a) The most distinctive feature about democracy is that its examination never gets over. As democracy passes one test, it produces another test.

b) When people get some benefits of democracy, they ask more and want to make democracy even better.

c) So, when we ask people about the functioning of democracy, they will always come up with more expectations, and many complaints.

d) The fact that people are complaining is itself a testimony to the success of democracy.

e) People have developed awareness and ability to expect and to look critically at power holders and high and the mighty.

11 Point out what shows the success of democratic projects? Examine its importance.

Ans:

a) A public expression of dissatisfaction with democracy.

b) It transforms people from status of a subject into that of a citizen.

c) Most individuals also believe that their vote makes a difference to the way the government is run and to their own self- interest.

12 Why is democratic government known as legitimate government? Explain. CCE Question (Board – March, 2014)

13 What are the main features of democracy? CCE Question (Board – March, 2015)

14 “Democracies are not appearing to be very successful in reducing economic inequalities”. Analyse the statement. (SA 2 EXAM – March, 2016) 

15 “Democracy is accountable and responsive to the needs and expectations of the citizens.” Evaluate the statement. (SA 2 EXAM –Compartment, July-2017 with Board Answer)

Ans:

1. Democracy is accountable and responsive to the needs and expectations of the citizens:

2. The most basic outcome of democracy is that it produces a government that is accountable to the citizens, and responsive to the needs and expectations of the citizens

3. Economic growth and development –level of economic development is slow because of delay in decision making.

4. Accommodation of social diversity – majority should work with minority. Dignity and freedom of citizens-every individual wants to receive respect from fellow beings. Equality of women.

16 Which values can help to strengthen democracy? Explain your views. (SA-2 EXAM –Compartment, July-2017 with Board Answer)

Ans:

Value that can help to strengthens democracy:

(i) Creating a sense of sincerity/ accountability commitment.

(ii) Socio economic equality.

(iii) Active participation of people in political affairs.

(iv) Developing the value of tolerance.

(v) Respect to each other.

17 Which values make democracy better than any other form of government? Explain. (SA-2 EXAM –March-2017 (Foreign) with Board Answer)

Values of Democracy:

i. Values of social justice, equality, fraternity.

ii. Transparency.

iii. Legitimacy.

iv. Importance to public opinion.

v. Provides rights to people.

vi. Feeling of collective belonging.

vii. Secularism and tolerance.

viii. Feeling of integrity and dutifulness.

ix. Respecting minorities.

x. Any other relevant point.

18 Explain the three factors that are crucial in deciding the outcome of politics of socialdivisions. (CBSE-MARCH 2018) (3X1=3)

Please click on below link to download CBSE Class 10 Democratic Politics Outcomes of Democracy Worksheet