Direct Democracy

Direct Democracy

Form of democracy in which the public is consulted directly on issues instead of through representatives

• Referendums are a mechanism of direct democracy

Key features of direct democracy

• People being directly consulted on democratic decisions

• Active in decision making

• Resolve constitutional issues

Examples of direct democracy

• First used in Ancient Greece

• Used in Switzerland

  • Used in referendums - use for UK politics, relevant example

Advantages of direct democracy

• Allows the citizens’ voices to be heard

• Give voice to people shut out of the political process

• Allows the citizens to make their voice directly heard

• No wasted votes

• End reliance on a political class

• Pure representation of class on each issue

Disadvantages of direct democracy

• Tyranny of the majority

• Infringe upon rights of minority groups

• Easily abused by those who advocate in favour of hate and discrimination

• Less efficient/practical

• Citizens are asked to participate in politics constantly

  • Not experts on every issue - have to simplify complex issues

  • Votes less motivated to turn out