ThinkRankOutcomes of Democracy
Overview
This chapter evaluates democracy by its outcomes, focusing on accountability, equality, and the quality of decision-making.
Learning Objectives
- Identify expected outcomes of democracy
- Explain accountability and legitimacy
- Recognize limits and challenges
Key Concepts
Accountability and Transparency
Elected leaders must answer to citizens, making decisions more transparent.
Dignity and Equality
Democracy values citizen dignity and political equality, though social inequalities may remain.
Decision-Making Quality
Democracy may be slower but allows debate and correction of mistakes.
Economic Outcomes
Economic growth in democracies may be uneven, and inequality is a persistent challenge.
Legitimacy
Democratic governments enjoy legitimacy because they are elected by people.
Welfare and Rights
Democracies often create schemes for education, health, and social security to improve lives.
Responsiveness
Public pressure, elections, and media push governments to address citizen demands.
Key Terms
Examples
Peaceful Transfer of Power
Elections allow leaders to be changed without violence.
Public Debate
Policies are discussed and criticized openly before adoption.
Quick Check
- What are the key outcomes of democracy?
- Why is accountability important?
- What limits the success of democracy?