Introduction to Democracy, Representation, and Political Parties

Flashcards covering key political science terms and concepts discussed in the lecture, including models of representation, party types, and democratic theory.

Direct Democracy

A political system in which citizens vote directly on every policy and law, which can lead to voter disinterest, lack of policy expertise, and the absence of institutional protections for minorities.

Tyranny of the Majority

A vulnerability in direct democracy where a majority (50% plus one) can continuously outvote minorities and strip away their rights without constitutional mediation.

Constitution

The foundational text organizing the state, defining how the political system operates, and establishing long-term rules to secure the well-being of the people.

Representation as a Mandate

A model of representation where elected officials are strictly required to implement specific constituent demands, rendering parliamentary compromise and coherent policymaking impossible.

Representation as a Trustee

A model of representation in which elected officials owe their constituents their personal judgment and discretion rather than strict obedience to popular opinion.

Sectarian Party

A political party that operates solely to advance the interests of one specific group, region, or demographic, excluding all other groups.

Single-Party State

A system of government where a single political party resides at the core of the political structure and utilizes the state apparatus as a tool for its own ends.

Hannah Arendt's Onion Model

A conceptual model of a totalitarian single-party state where surrounding social layers—including the state, civil society, and the economy—encircle and serve the central party core.