Q1
What does democracy mean?
APower ultimately rests with the people
BPower rests only with a king
CNo elections take place
DPower rests only with the military
CBSEClass 9 (CBSE)Social ScienceCh 12 · Topic 1
Defining Democracy
Democracy is a form of government where power ultimately rests with the people, who choose their representatives through free and fair elect
Core concept
In a democracy, citizens have the right to vote, participate in decision-making, and hold their government accountable through regular, fair elections.
How it works
Key features of democracy include the rule of law (everyone, including leaders, follows the same laws), protection of fundamental rights, and freedom of expression.
Why it matters
Democracies can be direct (citizens vote directly on issues) or representative (citizens elect representatives to make decisions), with most modern democracies being representative.
Key detail
Democracy values pluralism, meaning diverse opinions, groups, and interests are respected, and decisions often reflect a balance between majority rule and minority rights.
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• Democracy means power ultimately rests with the people.
• Citizens vote for representatives through free elections.
• Rule of law means everyone follows the same laws.
• Democracy protects fundamental rights and free expression.
• Direct democracy means citizens vote directly on issues.
• Representative democracy means citizens elect representatives.
• Most modern democracies are representative.
• Democracy balances majority rule and minority rights.