Representative and Direct Democracy

Paper 1 Politic

What is representative democracy?

A form of democracy by which voters elect representatives to make political decisions on their behalf

What is direct democracy?

A form of democracy by which citizens make political decisions for themselves

What are advantages of representative democracy?

Representatives are well informed and educated on political issues, representatives must balance conflicting interests so even minority groups are represented, clear accountability

What are the advantages of direct democracy?

Public are encouraged to engage with politics more, forced to be well informed with politics, referendums can be reduced to a simple yes/no decision, turnout is ofter higher- EU 2016 72% turnout

What are the disadvantages of representative democracy?

Representatives often have other interests and second jobs which could mean bias, Elitist Westminster bubble which could make them disconnected from constituents, representation of minorities in the house of commons is low (although women make up 35% now), votes for smaller parties essentially get wasted.

What are the disadvantages of direct democracy?

Tyranny of the majority, not practical in a modern state, many people aren’t sufficiently educated to make well informed decision.

Examples of direct democracy include

Referendums, recall of the MPs act 2015, e-petitions, consultative exercises, open primaries, election of the leadership of politcal parties.

How are representative democracy and direct democracy similar?

Both seek public opinion, both create legislature that represents the publics views, pressure groups that use direct democracy are a key part of the representative democracy.

Give an example where Direct Democracy was used?

Brexit referendum -52% for leave and 48% for remain

Scottish independence referendum 2014

Recall of MP Fiona Onansanya, Peterbrough, 2019