1. Democracy and Political Systems

Democracy

A system of government where citizens vote to choose representatives or make decisions.

Democracy example

In UK general elections, people vote for MPs to represent them in the House of Commons.

Dictatorship

One person or group holds total power and citizens have little political choice.

Dictatorship example

North Korea has controlled elections and opposition is banned.

Representative Democracy

A system where citizens elect representatives to make decisions for them.

Representative Democracy UK example

UK voters elect MPs to debate and pass laws in Parliament.

Direct Democracy

A system where citizens vote directly on important issues or laws.

Direct Democracy example

The 2016 EU referendum asked voters whether the UK should leave the EU.

Liberal Democracy

A democracy with protected rights such as free speech, fair elections and an independent judiciary.

Liberal Democracy UK example

The UK protects rights such as free speech, free press and peaceful protest.

Rights

Basic freedoms protected by law such as voting, speech and a fair trial.

Responsibilities

Duties citizens should follow such as obeying laws, paying tax and respecting others.

Equality

The principle that everyone should be treated fairly and protected from discrimination.

Freedom

The ability to make choices and express views within the law.

Rule of Law

The principle that everyone, including the government, is subject to the law.

Participation

When citizens take part in democracy through voting, petitions or campaigning.

Tolerance

Respecting people with different beliefs, cultures and opinions.

Why is participation important in a democracy

It gives citizens influence and makes government more accountable.

Why is the rule of law important

It prevents abuse of power and ensures fairness.

Why are rights important in a democracy

They protect citizens from unfair treatment by the state.

Why are responsibilities important

Rights work best when citizens act responsibly and respect others.

Why is equality important

It helps create a fair society with equal opportunities.

Why is tolerance important

It reduces conflict and supports social cohesion in diverse societies.

Advantage of representative democracy

Decisions can be made by elected people with more time and expertise.

Disadvantage of representative democracy

Representatives may ignore promises or not reflect public opinion.

Advantage of direct democracy

Citizens have a direct say on major issues.

Disadvantage of direct democracy

Voters may decide complex issues without full information.

Difference between direct and representative democracy

Direct democracy uses public votes on issues, representative democracy uses elected politicians.

How does liberal democracy limit power

It uses free elections, rights protections and an independent judiciary.

What is the risk of dictatorship

Power is concentrated and rights are often limited.

Case study Scottish Independence Referendum (2014)

A vote on whether Scotland should remain in the UK.

Why was the 2014 Scottish referendum significant

16 and 17 year olds could vote for the first time.

Result of the 2014 Scottish referendum

52% voted to stay in the UK.

How does voting support democracy

It allows citizens to choose leaders and hold them accountable.

How do petitions support participation

They allow citizens to raise issues and pressure decision

How does free press support democracy

It informs citizens and holds those in power to account.

How does an independent judiciary support democracy

It ensures laws are applied fairly without political interference.

Example of equality law in the UK

The Equality Act 2010 protects people from discrimination.

Why might turnout matter in elections

High turnout can make results seem more legitimate.

One criticism of referendums

They can reduce complex issues to a simple yes or no choice.