Democracy and Political Participation in the UK

These flashcards cover key concepts related to democracy, political participation, and the structures that facilitate governance in the UK.

What does the term democracy mean?

Democracy derives from Greek words meaning 'power of the people.'

What are the two main types of democracy described in the notes?

Direct democracy and representative democracy.

How does direct democracy operate?

Citizens vote on all issues directly, bypassing representatives.

What is representative democracy?

A system where citizens elect officials to make decisions on their behalf.

What are some challenges faced by direct democracy?

Low turnout, emotional decision-making, and majority rule overshadowing minority interests.

What is representation in the context of representative democracy?

It describes how individuals stand in for others in the political process.

What is a constituency?

A group of voters who elect representatives to legislative bodies.

What levels of constituency representation exist in the UK?

Ward/parish councils, parliamentary constituencies, national assembly constituencies, metropolitan authorities, and European Parliament constituencies.

Why is accountability important in representative democracy?

It ensures that representatives are responsible for their actions.

What does legitimacy refer to in a governmental context?

The belief that government actions are acceptable to citizens.

What is pluralism in relation to political power?

A theory that emphasizes the wide distribution of political power throughout society.

What is the role of the Queen in the UK parliamentary democracy?

The Queen serves as the ceremonial head of state.

What is the 1998 Human Rights Act?

It incorporates the European Convention on Human Rights into UK law.

What does political party membership indicate?

It is a measure of political participation among citizens.

What is non-participation in the political process?

The absence of citizens from political activities, particularly in voting.

What is pressure group activism?

It aims to influence policy through political means without seeking political office.

What are outsider pressure groups?

Groups that are not regularly consulted by the government and rely on public opinion.

What is a think tank?

A public policy research organization that influences government policy.

What is the current voting age in the UK?

18.

What is an e-petition?

A tool that allows UK citizens to request government action on specific issues.