Chapter 7
Outcomes of Democracy
Democracy’s Outcomes
Democracy is a form of government that creates opportunities for the citizen to achieve
their goals.
Democracy should produce a government that is both accountable and responsive to the
needs and expectations of the citizens
In a democracy, decisions are debated and negotiated upon. This makes them more
acceptable and effective as compared to the other forms of government.
Democracy is also a transparent form of government where citizens can question and
enquire regarding the functioning of the government.
However, democratic governments are not very efficient when it comes to sharing
information with people.
A democratic government is people’s own government as people wish to be ruled by
the representatives elected by them.
Performance of Democracy
Economic growth and development
Between 1950 and 2000, dictatorship as compared to democracy, has a higher
rate of economic development. However, democracy is still preferred as it has
several other positive outcomes.
Reduction of inequality and poverty
Democracies are based on political equality but huge economic disparities.
Accommodation of social diversity
Both the majority and the minority opinion must be considered for the efficient
functioning of a democracy.
Rule of majority should not prevail in the fields of religion, language or race.
Dignity and freedom of the citizens
Democracy promotes dignity and freedom to individuals.
Unequal factions of the society such as women and the people from
discriminated castes and classes are also given equal status and opportunity of
participation in the democratic process.
Outcomes of Democracy
Democracy’s Outcomes
Democracy is a form of government that creates opportunities for the citizen to achieve
their goals.
Democracy should produce a government that is both accountable and responsive to the
needs and expectations of the citizens
In a democracy, decisions are debated and negotiated upon. This makes them more
acceptable and effective as compared to the other forms of government.
Democracy is also a transparent form of government where citizens can question and
enquire regarding the functioning of the government.
However, democratic governments are not very efficient when it comes to sharing
information with people.
A democratic government is people’s own government as people wish to be ruled by
the representatives elected by them.
Performance of Democracy
Economic growth and development
Between 1950 and 2000, dictatorship as compared to democracy, has a higher
rate of economic development. However, democracy is still preferred as it has
several other positive outcomes.
Reduction of inequality and poverty
Democracies are based on political equality but huge economic disparities.
Accommodation of social diversity
Both the majority and the minority opinion must be considered for the efficient
functioning of a democracy.
Rule of majority should not prevail in the fields of religion, language or race.
Dignity and freedom of the citizens
Democracy promotes dignity and freedom to individuals.
Unequal factions of the society such as women and the people from
discriminated castes and classes are also given equal status and opportunity of
participation in the democratic process.
