Definition:

Democracy refers to a political system in which government is form by the people, exercised

either directly or through elected representative.

What is democracy?

People elected government. There is freedom of speech. There is no one party government in

the country. People have right to give vote to elect their representatives. The common people,

considered as the primary source of political power. The principles of social equality and

respect for the individual within a community.

Principals of democracy

Free elections are used to select representatives of the people.

The powers of government are based on the consent of the governed.
Public questions are decided by the will of the majority.
Rule of law guarantees rights and freedoms. Freedom to live or travel anywhere in the

country.
Freedom to work at any job for which one qualifies.
Freedom to marry and raise a family.
Freedom to receive free education in public schools.
Freedom to join a political party, union, or other legal group.

Merits of democracy
 Ethical Defense: Democracy recognizes the worth of a man. It rejects the right of one

or a few to rule over the others. Under democracy the community as a whole is the

custodian of sovereignty of state.

Common Welfare: The government will respond to the needs of all since power of

sovereignty vests in all. Those who are excluded from power are also denied the

privileges of power. It is only in democracy that a citizen is at once the subject and the

ruler and "just government is government by consent of the governed.

Rule of Law: It is only in democracy that the rule of persons and classes is replaced

by the "rule of law"; where fundamental rights are guaranteed and treated as

limitations upon the government.

Democracy develops the Spirit of Patriotism: As J.S. Mill puts it, "Democracy

strengthens the love of country because citizens feel that the government is their own

creation and the rulers their servants rather than masters".

Responsible to the People: It is subject to regular and constant criticism and popular

pressure. It alone provides responsibility of the rulers. The party in power can retain

power only by invoking the approval of popular support which can be possible only if

it serves popular interests. The opposition parties keep a check and watch upon the

ruling party. The latter has always to explain its policy and convince the electorate of

its soundness. All decisions are to be arrived at by discussion, argument and

persuasion. Democracy avoids suppression of thought and action.

Equality: It ensures equality and liberty. There are no ruler and ruled. All are citizens.

People can live and regulate their lives according to their needs and choice. 9.

Education: Democracy has an immense educative value. J.S. Mill rightly pointed out

that a citizen who has no vote is either a malcontent or an indifferent citizen." Citizens

in democracy participate in the election of parliaments in the process of law making,

and in the execution of laws. The ruling and opposition parties constantly educate the
 people. The voter gets many opportunities to be politically educated at panchayat,

local, provincial and central levels.

Demerits of democracy:

Quantity rather than Quality: It lays emphasis on quantity as opposed to quality.

Every person whether stupid or genius is treated equal while inequality is a biological

phenomenon. It turns into government by "the ignorant and the intellectual."

Inefficiency: It very often raises inefficiency. The political leaders are more busy with

forming political alliances and thereby maintaining their positions rather than looking

after the administration.

Corruption: It raises corruption like 'spoils system', 'lobbying', 'log-rolling', etc.

Unhealthy political compromises are made, partnerships are formed throwing all

principles to winds thereby. Privileges and power are distributed among the supporters

of the regime rather than given to those who deserve. Democracy thus encourages

discrimination, jobbery and favoritism.

Political Parties: It leads to formation of political parties which mislead, misinform

and misguide the electorate. They distort issues, falsify facts, appeal to emotions,

make falser and Ideal promises.

Expensive: It is very expensive type of government. Parliaments, cabinets, election

machinery are all a costly affair and a burden on the tax payer. Millions of money are

spent on the election.