Direct democracy

Evaluate the extent to which direct democracy is superior to indirect democracy. [30]

definition

direct democracy is a form of democracy where decisions are directly made by the public without their opinion being channeled through representatives.

Round 1: enhances democracy

In nature, direct democracy is more democratic because it gives the people a political voice.

demokratia - greek origin of word - people’s rule

all votes are weighted the same unlike in a representative democracy where some votes are wasted.

Round 1 counter: Tyranny of the majority

The majority voice can outweigh that of the minority if there are popular votes.

Tyranny of the majority in Switzerland after the banning of minarets in 2009 after a fear that the country was being overrun by religion

Round 2: people can vote how they want on issues

people can vote on every issue they want rather than voting for. party that is line with their views.

In 2021 several important issues were raised via e-petitions such as making it legal for night clubs to search guests on entry.

Round 2 counter: decreasee turnout

if there are many referendums on issues that the public aren’t interested in, they won’t vote.

increasing devolution to wales ref. turnout was 35.2%.

Round 3: increases political participation

People are more likely to educate themselves on political issues because they see that their votes matter.

Brexit made the common person more aware of the political environment that they were in.

Round 3 counter: easily influenced

people can often be manipulated with the use of marketing and adverts.

e.g. Brexit bus. The UK sends 350 million pounds per week to the European Union. This money would go back to the NHS. There is not evidence of this and it was aimed to get the vote of swing voters