Direct Democracy

Direct democracy

a form of govt in which all laws, bills and cabinet positions are determined by the direct vote of the population. It can also be called ‘full democracy’ or ‘pure democracy’

In practice

Swiss cantons use direct democracy, where citizens can propose changes to the constitution or challenge laws passed by parliament

Referendums

where the public vote on a specific issue (Brexit referendum)

How has direct democracy changed recently?

Modern technology has increased opportunities for direct democracy. This is seen through online voting or petitioning for legislative changes

Key Theorists

Jean-Jacques Rousseau, a strong advocate for direct democracy

Robert Dahl, he coined the term ‘polyarchy’ as a more realistic form of democracy

Controversies and criticisms of direct democracy

the use of referendums can be controversial as they reduce key issues to a yes/no question

can cause tyranny of the majority (majoritarianism)

potential for vote manipulation and the argument that the average citizen may lack the necessary understanding to make informed decisions on complex political issues

supporters of direct democracy

direct democracy increases political engagement and accountability

they also contend that it ensures actions are taken by the government more accurately reflect the will of the people

distinction between direct democracy and representative democracy

representative democracy is the most common form of democracy in national govts, including the UK. In this system, citizens elect representatives to make decisions on their behalf