CBSE Class 10 Social Science (Political Science) Chapter 5 Outcomes of Democracy Notes, Download PDF

How do we assess democracy’s outcomes?

Democracy is better because it:

• Promotes equality among citizens;
• Enhances the dignity of the individual;
• Improves the quality of decision-making;
• Provides a method to resolve conflicts; and
• Allows room to correct mistakes

Accountable, responsive and legitimate government

In a democracy, individuals possess the fundamental right to select their leaders and exert influence over their government. This empowerment is achieved through active citizen participation in decision-making processes, resulting in a government that is accountable to the people and receptive to their aspirations and demands.

Central to democracy is the adherence to established norms and procedures in decision-making, guaranteeing transparency and fairness. Any citizen curious about the legitimacy of a particular decision can readily access information on the processes followed. Moreover, citizens enjoy the freedom to engage in decision-making whenever they desire, ensuring their voices are consistently heard.

A democratic government is essentially a government of the people, by the people, and for the people. The populace desires representation through elected officials, cementing the notion that it is their own government, working to fulfil the will and interests of those who have chosen them to lead.

Economic growth and development

While the dictatorial regime may have shown slightly improved economic growth compared to some other systems, this advantage diminishes when considering only impoverished nations. In such cases, there is little discernible difference in economic outcomes.

It is essential to recognize that even within democratic countries, a significant degree of inequality can exist. Despite democratic principles, disparities in wealth and opportunities persist, affecting various sections of society, particularly the less privileged.

Moreover, access to opportunities often remains unequal for the poorer segments of society, creating additional challenges in their pursuit of social and economic advancement. This indicates that while democracy can be a valuable framework for governance, it does not guarantee uniform prosperity or equal opportunities for all citizens.

Reduction of inequality and poverty

• Dictatorial regimes have had a slightly better record of economic growth. But when we compare their record only in poor countries, there is virtually no difference.
• There can be a very high degree of inequalities within democracies..
• There is often inequality of opportunities available to the poorer sections

Accommodation of social diversity

No society can fully and permanently resolve conflicts among different groups.

Ability to handle social differences, divisions and conflicts is thus a definite plus point of democratic regimes.

• Democracy is not simply rule by majority opinion. The majority always needs to work with the minority so that governments function to represent the general view.
• It is necessary that rule by majority does not become rule by majority community in terms of religion or race or linguistic group, etc. Rule by majority means that in case of every decision or in case of every election, different persons and groups may and can form a majority.

Dignity and freedom of the citizens

• Democracy stands much superior to any other form of government in promoting dignity and freedom of the individual.
• The passion for respect and freedom are the basis of democracy.
• This has been achieved to various degrees in various democracies.
• For societies which have been built for long on the basis of subordination and domination, it is not a simple matter to recognise that all individuals are equal.
• 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.
• Democracy in India has strengthened the claims of the disadvantaged and discriminated castes for equal status and equal opportunity. It is the recognition that makes ordinary citizens value their democratic rights.
• Expectations from democracy also function as the criteria for judging any democratic country.
• As people get some benefits of democracy, they ask for more and want to make democracy even better.
• That is why, when we ask people about the way democracy functions, they will always come up with more expectations, and many complaints.
• 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.