democracy essay with quotations

70 Quotes on Democracy that Capture the Spirit of Democracy

Quotes on Democracy, Democracy, the governance system that empowers citizens to participate in decision-making processes, has been a subject of contemplation and debate for centuries. From ancient philosophers to modern statesmen, individuals have shared profound insights, criticisms, and praises for this form of governance. Let’s explore some notable quotes on democracy and unravel their significance in today’s world.

• Related: 70 Best Election Day Quotes, Wishes, Messages & Captions

Contents Heading

Quotes on Democracy

“Democracy is the government of the people, by the people, for the people.” – Abraham Lincoln

“Democracy is not just a form of government; it’s a way of life.” – Jawaharlal Nehru

“The ignorance of one voter in a democracy impairs the security of all.” – John F. Kennedy

“Democracy is the only system that persists in asking powers to justify themselves.” – John Kenneth Galbraith

“Democracy is not perfect, but it’s the best system we have.” – Winston Churchill

“Democracy is based upon the conviction that there are extraordinary possibilities in ordinary people.” – Harry Emerson Fosdick

“The ballot is stronger than the bullet.” – Abraham Lincoln

“Democracy means government by discussion, but it is only effective if you can stop people talking.” – Clement Attlee

“Democracy cannot succeed unless those who express their choice are prepared to choose wisely.” – Franklin D. Roosevelt

“Democracy is the art of thinking independently together.” – Alexander Meiklejohn

“Democracy is not just a political concept, but a culture that empowers individuals and communities.” – Unknown

“Democracy is a journey of continuous improvement, always striving for a more inclusive and just society.” – Aung San Suu Kyi

“Democracy is not simply a form of government; it is a way of organizing and uplifting the human spirit.” – Rollo May

“Democracy is the embodiment of the principle that men were born to be free.” – Franklin D. Roosevelt

“Democracy is the only system capable of reflecting the humanist premise of equilibrium or balance.” – John Ralston Saul

“Democracy is not just about casting votes, but also about ensuring that every voice is heard and respected.” – Kofi Annan

“Democracy is a commitment to the dignity and potential of each individual.” – Tony Blair

“In a democracy, the well-being, individuality, and happiness of every citizen is important for the overall prosperity of the nation.” – Adlai E. Stevenson II

“Democracy is more than a set of rules; it is a culture that promotes dialogue, tolerance, and the pursuit of common goals.” – Bill Clinton

“The strength of a democracy lies in the ability of its citizens to question, engage, and actively participate in shaping its future.” – Barack Obama

“Democracy thrives on the diversity of voices and perspectives, enriching the fabric of society.” – Unknown

“Democracy is not just about majority rule; it’s about protecting the rights and dignity of minorities.” – Jimmy Carter

“The essence of democracy is the assurance that every individual counts, every voice matters.” – Hillary Clinton

“Democracy is a continual process of renewal, where citizens actively participate in shaping their collective destiny.” – Vaclav Havel

“Democracy is a garden that requires constant cultivation, nurturing, and protection.” – Desmond Tutu

“In a democracy, the power of governance emanates from the people and returns to them, ensuring accountability and transparency.” – Mary Robinson

“Democracy is not just about elections; it’s about fostering a culture of civic engagement and responsibility.” – Justin Trudeau

“The true test of democracy is not the perfection of its institutions but the empowerment of its people.” – Helen Clark

“Democracy is a reflection of our shared humanity, where every individual’s rights and freedoms are safeguarded.” – Ban Ki-moon

“The beauty of democracy lies in its ability to accommodate dissent, dialogue, and peaceful resolution of conflicts.” – Nelson Mandela

“Democracy is the cornerstone of human dignity, allowing individuals to assert their rights and shape their destinies.” – Ellen Johnson Sirleaf

“Democracy is not just a system of governance; it’s a promise of equality, justice, and opportunity for all.” – Michelle Obama

“The strength of democracy lies in its ability to adapt, evolve, and respond to the changing needs and aspirations of its citizens.” – Angela Merkel

“Democracy is a reflection of our collective belief in the inherent worth and potential of every human being.” – Jacinda Ardern

“In a democracy, the power of the people is not just a slogan but a living reality that shapes the course of nations.” – Emmanuel Macron

“Democracy is a journey towards a more perfect union, where we strive to bridge divides and build a society based on mutual respect and understanding.” – Joe Biden

“The soul of democracy lies in the free exchange of ideas, where truth emerges from the crucible of debate and discourse.” – Kamala Harris

“Democracy is a beacon of hope in a world often plagued by division, oppression, and injustice.” – Justin Welby

“The essence of democracy is not just in the exercise of rights but in the fulfillment of responsibilities towards one another and the common good.” – Pope Francis

“Democracy is not a spectator sport; it requires active participation, vigilance, and a commitment to upholding democratic values.” – Michelle Bachelet

“Democracy is the art of balancing competing interests while upholding the dignity and rights of every individual.” – Ellen DeGeneres

“In a democracy, disagreement is not a sign of weakness but a testament to the strength of diverse perspectives.” – Justin Trudeau

“Democracy is not just about what happens in the halls of power but also in the streets, where the voices of the marginalized are often heard the loudest.” – Malala Yousafzai

“The essence of democracy lies in the empowerment of the powerless, giving voice to the voiceless, and ensuring that every person has a seat at the table.” – Desmond Tutu

“Democracy is a commitment to the principle that government exists to serve the people, not the other way around.” – Bernie Sanders

“In a democracy, the measure of a society’s progress is not just its GDP but the well-being and happiness of its citizens.” – Narendra Modi

“Democracy is a journey towards a more inclusive and equitable society, where no one is left behind.” – Justin Welby

“The true strength of democracy lies in its ability to foster a culture of empathy, compassion, and solidarity.” – Dalai Lama

“Democracy is not just a system of governance; it’s a moral imperative rooted in the inherent worth and dignity of every individual.” – Cory Booker

“In the tapestry of democracy, every thread counts, weaving together a fabric of justice, equality, and freedom.” – Barack Obama

Quotes on Democracy serve as poignant reminders of its enduring relevance and the collective responsibility to uphold and strengthen democratic institutions. As we navigate the complexities of the modern world, let us heed the wisdom of past and present voices in shaping a more inclusive, equitable, and resilient democratic future.

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of follow-up comments by email.

Notify me of new posts by email.

Center Staff

State Network

• State Programs At-a-Glance

Board & Councils

• Board of Directors
• National Advisory Council

History of the Center

Annual Reports

• About the Program
• How to Use We the People
• Curriculum by Grade Level
• Simulated Hearings
• National & State Competitions
• 2024 National Finals
• 2024 National Invitational
• Professional Learning
• Supplemental Resources
• Level 3 Resources
• Level 2 Resources
• Level 1 Resources
• Program Impact
• State Competitions
• 2023 National Finals
• 2023 National Invitational
• Hearing Questions
• Scoring Rubric Videos
• Resource Center Level 3
• Resource Center Level 2
• Resource Center Level 1

• National Showcases
• Curriculum In Focus

• About the Toolkit
• How-To Use the Toolkit
• Principles of the Constitution
• Evolution of Political Parties
• Women's Rights
• Civil Rights in America
• Citizenship
• Civics Empowers All Students
• James Madison Legacy Project Expansion
• Project Citizen Research Program

Teacher Resources

• Self-Paced Courses
• The Constitution EXPLAINED Videos
• Constitution Day
• Bill of Rights
• Voting and Elections
• 60-Second Civics
• Quotations about Democracy

Civics Inquiry Lesson Plans

• Lower Voting Age
• Who Are We the People?
• Escaping Misinformation
• Has Dr. King's Legacy Been Fulfilled?

EAD Crosswalks

• We the People Level 1
• We the People Level 2
• We the People Level 3

Learn.Civiced.org

• We the People Open Course
• Strengthening Democracy Open Course

For Teachers

Resource Materials

• Civics Renewal Network
• Civics Teacher Corps
• EAD Champion
• WTP Alumni Network
• Ways to Give

Quotations about Democracy, Politics and Government, and Related Matters

Subscribe to our newsletter.

Center for Civic Education

5115 Douglas Fir Road, Suite J Calabasas, CA 91302

  Phone: (818) 591-9321

  Email: [email protected]

  Media Inquiries: [email protected]

  Website: www.civiced.org

• Our Programs
• Our Networks

Democracy in Pakistan Essay with Quotations

by Pakiology | Jul 23, 2024 | Essay | 1 comment

Explore the evolution, challenges, and progress of democracy in Pakistan in this in-depth essay . Gain insights into the nation’s rich history, the influence of the military, the pervasive issue of corruption, and the role of civil society in shaping Pakistan’s democratic landscape.

Title: The Evolution of Democracy in Pakistan: Challenges, Progress, and Prospects for the Future

Introduction.

Pakistan, a country characterized by its rich and diverse history, has embarked on a tumultuous journey in pursuit of democracy. Overcoming numerous obstacles, its citizens have tenaciously defended their democratic rights and worked diligently to forge a more equitable society. In this comprehensive essay, we delve into the current state of democracy in Pakistan, recognizing its historical context, addressing the persistent challenges it confronts, highlighting the progress made, and considering the prospects for the future.

The Historical Landscape

Democracy, at its core, is a system of government grounded in the principle of representation, allowing citizens to actively participate in decision-making processes that impact their lives. Regrettably, the implementation of democracy in Pakistan has been marred by a series of military coups and periods of martial law, intermittently disrupting its democratic trajectory. Despite these adversities, Pakistan now operates as a federal parliamentary republic with a president and prime minister at the helm.

The Military’s Influence: A Persistent Challenge

A major impediment to democracy in Pakistan has been the enduring influence of the military on the political landscape. Pakistan’s history is replete with instances of military interventions in civilian governance, including several coups and martial law declarations. This persistent interference not only undermines democratic principles but also erodes public trust in the democratic system. Additionally, intelligence agencies have faced accusations of wielding substantial influence in the political sphere, further eroding democratic institutions and processes.

Corruption as a Hindrance: A Deep-Seated Issue

Another significant challenge is the pervasiveness of corruption within Pakistan. Corruption has become deeply ingrained in the country, with numerous politicians and government officials implicated in embezzlement and bribery. This deeply rooted issue corrodes the legitimacy of the democratic process and erodes public trust in the government. The adverse effects of corruption are most acutely felt by marginalized communities, who suffer from a lack of essential public services and resources.

The Resilience of Democratic Aspirations: Signs of Progress

Despite these formidable challenges, the citizens of Pakistan persistently strive to defend their democratic rights and fortify democratic institutions. In recent years, the country has seen a notable rise in the number of civil society organizations dedicated to advocating for transparency, accountability, and the promotion of awareness regarding democratic rights and freedoms. Additionally, the media has played a pivotal role in promoting democratic values and holding the government accountable for its actions.

The Role of Civil Society

Civil society organizations have emerged as vital agents of change in Pakistan’s democratic landscape. They tirelessly work to bridge the gap between the government and the governed, acting as watchdogs for accountability and transparency. Through advocacy, awareness campaigns, and public mobilization, these organizations have managed to shine a spotlight on the pressing issues of democracy and governance in Pakistan. Their activities range from monitoring elections to exposing corruption and advocating for the rule of law.

Media as the Fourth Estate

The media in Pakistan has undergone a transformational journey, evolving into a vibrant fourth estate that plays a crucial role in promoting democratic values. While media outlets often grapple with challenges such as censorship and intimidation, they continue to serve as a check on government power and a forum for diverse voices. Investigative journalism has uncovered corruption scandals, challenged authoritarianism, and provided a platform for citizens to engage in political discourse.

In conclusion, democracy in Pakistan remains an imperfect yet indispensable system, despite the numerous setbacks and challenges it has encountered. The people of Pakistan ardently safeguard their democratic rights, and the fortification of democratic institutions and processes is pivotal for the nation’s future. The enduring challenges posed by military influence, corruption, and public mistrust can only be surmounted through persistent efforts and sustained citizen engagement in the democratic process. As Pakistan continues its journey towards a more robust democracy, the world watches with hope and anticipation, recognizing the nation’s potential to overcome its challenges and achieve democratic excellence. The path may be long and arduous, but the resilience and determination of Pakistan’s people offer a promising outlook for the future of democracy in the country.

Quotes Related to Democracy

Here are a few quotes related to democracy and its challenges in Pakistan:

“A society that puts equality before freedom will get neither. A society that puts freedom before equality will get a high degree of both.” – Milton Friedman, Economist

“The greatest threat to democracy is not the enemies from without, but the enemies from within.” – Thomas Jefferson, Third President of the United States

“I believe that the real solution to the problems facing Pakistan lies in true democracy and the rule of law.” – Imran Khan, Former Prime Minister of Pakistan

“The price of freedom is eternal vigilance.” – John Philpot Curran, Irish Orator and Statesman.

Ask Your Questions

You might like, my favourite personality essay | 400 & 600 words.

Essay 1 (400 Words) : My Favourite Personality Is My Mother My favourite personality is my mother. She is kind,...

Why I Love Pakistan Essay | 400, 500 & 700 Words

400 Words Essay on Why I Love Pakistan With Quotation Pakistan is a country full of diversity and richness in culture,...

Problems of Karachi Essay | 200 & 500 Words

Explore the multifaceted challenges faced by Karachi in this comprehensive essay. From overpopulation to traffic...

A True Muslim Essay With Quotations 2023

A true Muslim essay is about the qualities of a true Muslim and how they embody the teachings of Islam in their daily...

Sir you have used a lot of bitter words in this essay which are enough to awake a nation.😭😭😭😭 But It’s reality I think inshallah one day we will achieve that original democracy which will prevent our basic rights and our motherland…..

Submit a Comment Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Submit Comment

• class-9-notes
• Friendship quotes
• Scholarships
• Science News
• Study Abroad
• Study in Australia
• SZABMU MDCAT
• UHS Past MCQs
• Universities

45,000+ students realised their study abroad dream with us. Take the first step today

Here’s your new year gift, one app for all your, study abroad needs, start your journey, track your progress, grow with the community and so much more.

Verification Code

An OTP has been sent to your registered mobile no. Please verify

Thanks for your comment !

Our team will review it before it's shown to our readers.

Essay on Democracy in 100, 300 and 500 Words

• Updated on  
• Jan 15, 2024

The oldest account of democracy can be traced back to 508–507 BCC Athens . Today there are over 50 different types of democracy across the world. But, what is the ideal form of democracy? Why is democracy considered the epitome of freedom and rights around the globe? Let’s explore what self-governance is and how you can write a creative and informative essay on democracy and its significance. 

Today, India is the largest democracy with a population of 1.41 billion and counting. Everyone in India above the age of 18 is given the right to vote and elect their representative. Isn’t it beautiful, when people are given the option to vote for their leader, one that understands their problems and promises to end their miseries? This is just one feature of democracy , for we have a lot of samples for you in the essay on democracy. Stay tuned!

This Blog Includes:

What is democracy , sample essay on democracy (100 words), sample essay on democracy (250 to 300 words), sample essay on democracy for upsc (500 words).

Democracy is a form of government in which the final authority to deliberate and decide the legislation for the country lies with the people, either directly or through representatives. Within a democracy, the method of decision-making, and the demarcation of citizens vary among countries. However, some fundamental principles of democracy include the rule of law, inclusivity, political deliberations, voting via elections , etc. 

Did you know: On 15th August 1947, India became the world’s largest democracy after adopting the Indian Constitution and granting fundamental rights to its citizens?

Also Read: Essay on Yoga Day

Also Read: Speech on Yoga Day

Democracy where people make decisions for the country is the only known form of governance in the world that promises to inculcate principles of equality, liberty and justice. The deliberations and negotiations to form policies and make decisions for the country are the basis on which the government works, with supreme power to people to choose their representatives, delegate the country’s matters and express their dissent. The democratic system is usually of two types, the presidential system, and the parliamentary system. In India, the three pillars of democracy, namely legislature, executive and judiciary, working independently and still interconnected, along with a free press and media provide a structure for a truly functional democracy. Despite the longest-written constitution incorporating values of sovereignty, socialism, secularism etc. India, like other countries, still faces challenges like corruption, bigotry, and oppression of certain communities and thus, struggles to stay true to its democratic ideals.

Did you know: Some of the richest countries in the world are democracies?

Must Read : Consumer Rights in India

Must Read: Democracy and Diversity Class 10

As Abraham Lincoln once said, “democracy is the government of the people, by the people and for the people.” There is undeniably no doubt that the core of democracies lies in making people the ultimate decision-makers. With time, the simple definition of democracy has evolved to include other principles like equality, political accountability, rights of the citizens and to an extent, values of liberty and justice. Across the globe, representative democracies are widely prevalent, however, there is a major variation in how democracies are practised. The major two types of representative democracy are presidential and parliamentary forms of democracy. Moreover, not all those who present themselves as a democratic republic follow its values.

Many countries have legally deprived some communities of living with dignity and protecting their liberty, or are practising authoritarian rule through majoritarianism or populist leaders. Despite this, one of the things that are central and basic to all is the practice of elections and voting. However, even in such a case, the principles of universal adult franchise and the practice of free and fair elections are theoretically essential but very limited in practice, for a democracy. Unlike several other nations, India is still, at least constitutionally and principally, a practitioner of an ideal democracy.

With our three organs of the government, namely legislative, executive and judiciary, the constitutional rights to citizens, a multiparty system, laws to curb discrimination and spread the virtues of equality, protection to minorities, and a space for people to discuss, debate and dissent, India has shown a commitment towards democratic values. In recent times, with challenges to freedom of speech, rights of minority groups and a conundrum between the protection of diversity and unification of the country, the debate about the preservation of democracy has become vital to public discussion.

Did you know: In countries like Brazil, Scotland, Switzerland, Argentina, and Austria the minimum voting age is 16 years?

Also Read: Difference Between Democracy and Dictatorship

Democracy originated from the Greek word dēmokratiā , with dēmos ‘people’ and Kratos ‘rule.’ For the first time, the term appeared in the 5th century BC to denote the political systems then existing in Greek city-states, notably Classical Athens, to mean “rule of the people.” It now refers to a form of governance where the people have the right to participate in the decision-making of the country. Majorly, it is either a direct democracy where citizens deliberate and make legislation while in a representative democracy, they choose government officials on their behalf, like in a parliamentary or presidential democracy.

The presidential system (like in the USA) has the President as the head of the country and the government, while the parliamentary system (like in the UK and India) has both a Prime Minister who derives its legitimacy from a parliament and even a nominal head like a monarch or a President.

The notions and principle frameworks of democracy have evolved with time. At the core, lies the idea of political discussions and negotiations. In contrast to its alternatives like monarchy, anarchy, oligarchy etc., it is the one with the most liberty to incorporate diversity. The ideas of equality, political representation to all, active public participation, the inclusion of dissent, and most importantly, the authority to the law by all make it an attractive option for citizens to prefer, and countries to follow.

The largest democracy in the world, India with the lengthiest constitution has tried and to an extent, successfully achieved incorporating the framework to be a functional democracy. It is a parliamentary democratic republic where the President is head of the state and the Prime minister is head of the government. It works on the functioning of three bodies, namely legislative, executive, and judiciary. By including the principles of a sovereign, socialist, secular and democratic republic, and undertaking the guidelines to establish equality, liberty and justice, in the preamble itself, India shows true dedication to achieving the ideal.

It has formed a structure that allows people to enjoy their rights, fight against discrimination or any other form of suppression, and protect their rights as well. The ban on all and any form of discrimination, an independent judiciary, governmental accountability to its citizens, freedom of media and press, and secular values are some common values shared by all types of democracies.

Across the world, countries have tried rooting their constitution with the principles of democracy. However, the reality is different. Even though elections are conducted everywhere, mostly, they lack freedom of choice and fairness. Even in the world’s greatest democracies, there are challenges like political instability, suppression of dissent, corruption , and power dynamics polluting the political sphere and making it unjust for the citizens. Despite the consensus on democracy as the best form of government, the journey to achieve true democracy is both painstaking and tiresome. 

Did you know: Countries like Singapore, Peru, and Brazil have compulsory voting?

Must Read: Democracy and Diversity Class 10 Notes

Democracy is a process through which the government of a country is elected by and for the people.

Yes, India is a democratic country and also holds the title of the world’s largest democracy.

Direct and Representative Democracy are the two major types of Democracy.

Related Articles

Hope you learned from our essay on democracy! For more exciting articles related to writing and education abroad , follow Leverage Edu .

Sonal is a creative, enthusiastic writer and editor who has worked extensively for the Study Abroad domain. She splits her time between shooting fun insta reels and learning new tools for content marketing. If she is missing from her desk, you can find her with a group of people cracking silly jokes or petting neighbourhood dogs.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Contact no. *

Very helpful essay

Thanks for your valuable feedback

Thank you so much for informing this much about democracy

Leaving already?

8 Universities with higher ROI than IITs and IIMs

Grab this one-time opportunity to download this ebook

Connect With Us

45,000+ students realised their study abroad dream with us. take the first step today..

Resend OTP in

Need help with?

Study abroad.

UK, Canada, US & More

IELTS, GRE, GMAT & More

Scholarship, Loans & Forex

Country Preference

New Zealand

Which English test are you planning to take?

Which academic test are you planning to take.

Not Sure yet

When are you planning to take the exam?

Already booked my exam slot

Within 2 Months

Want to learn about the test

Which Degree do you wish to pursue?

When do you want to start studying abroad.

September 2024

January 2025

What is your budget to study abroad?

How would you describe this article ?

Please rate this article

We would like to hear more.

• Teaching Resources
• Upcoming Events
• On-demand Events

What Is Democracy?

• Civics & Citizenship
• Social Studies
• Democracy & Civic Engagement
• facebook sharing
• email sharing

The following are some quotations about democracy:

“E pluribus unum.” (Out of many, one.) 

—MOTTO OF THE UNITED STATES 

“Democracy is based upon the conviction that there are extraordinary possibilities in ordinary people.” 

—HARRY EMERSON FOSDICK

“Democracy is a process, not a static condition. It is becoming, rather than being. It can easily be lost, but never is fully won. Its essence is eternal struggle.” 

—FEDERAL JUDGE WILLIAM H. HASTIE 

“Chief among our gains must be reckoned this possibility of choice, the recognition of many possible ways of life, where other civilizations have recognized only one.” 

—MARGARET MEAD 

“Democracy means not ‘I am as good as you are,’ but ‘You are as good as I am.’” 

—REV. THEODORE PARKER 

“The government is us; we are the government, you and I.” 

—THEODORE ROOSEVELT

“In a democracy, the highest office is the office of citizen.”

—SUPREME COURT JUSTICE FELIX FRANKFURTER

Get the reading

• document What Is Democracy? – PDF
• document “What Is Democracy? – Doc

How to Cite This Reading

Facing History & Ourselves, “ What Is Democracy? ”, last updated July 6, 2023.

You might also be interested in…

10 questions for the future: student action project, 10 questions for the present: parkland student activism, getting to know the 10 questions, 10 questions for young changemakers, how to read the news like a fact checker, confronting apartheid, voting rights in the united states, the hope and fragility of democracy in the united states, what happened during the insurrection at the us capitol and why, #iftheygunnedmedown, the impact of identity, the power of images, inspiration, insights, & ways to get involved.

Talk to our experts

1800-120-456-456

• Democracy Essay for Students in English

Essay on Democracy

Introduction.

Democracy is mainly a Greek word which means people and their rules, here peoples have the to select their own government as per their choice. Greece was the first democratic country in the world. India is a democratic country where people select their government of their own choice, also people have the rights to do the work of their choice. There are two types of democracy: direct and representative and hybrid or semi-direct democracy. There are many decisions which are made under democracies. People enjoy few rights which are very essential for human beings to live happily. 

Our country has the largest democracy. In a democracy, each person has equal rights to fight for development. After the independence, India has adopted democracy, where the people vote those who are above 18 years of age, but these votes do not vary by any caste; people from every caste have equal rights to select their government. Democracy, also called as a rule of the majority, means whatever the majority of people decide, it has to be followed or implemented, the representative winning with the most number of votes will have the power. We can say the place where literacy people are more there shows the success of the democracy even lack of consciousness is also dangerous in a democracy. Democracy is associated with higher human accumulation and higher economic freedom. Democracy is closely tied with the economic source of growth like education and quality of life as well as health care. The constituent assembly in India was adopted by Dr B.R. Ambedkar on 26 th November 1949 and became sovereign democratic after its constitution came into effect on 26 January 1950.

What are the Challenges:

There are many challenges for democracy like- corruption here, many political leaders and officers who don’t do work with integrity everywhere they demand bribes, resulting in the lack of trust on the citizens which affects the country very badly. Anti-social elements- which are seen during elections where people are given bribes and they are forced to vote for a particular candidate. Caste and community- where a large number of people give importance to their caste and community, therefore, the political party also selects the candidate on the majority caste. We see wherever the particular caste people win the elections whether they do good for the society or not, and in some cases, good leaders lose because of less count of the vote.

India is considered to be the largest democracy around the globe, with a population of 1.3 billion. Even though being the biggest democratic nation, India still has a long way to becoming the best democratic system. The caste system still prevails in some parts, which hurts the socialist principle of democracy. Communalism is on the rise throughout the globe and also in India, which interferes with the secular principle of democracy. All these differences need to be set aside to ensure a thriving democracy.

Principles of Democracy:

There are mainly five principles like- republic, socialist, sovereign, democratic and secular, with all these quality political parties will contest for elections. There will be many bribes given to the needy person who require food, money, shelter and ask them to vote whom they want. But we can say that democracy in India is still better than the other countries.

Basically, any country needs democracy for development and better functioning of the government. In some countries, freedom of political expression, freedom of speech, freedom of the press, are considered to ensure that voters are well informed, enabling them to vote according to their own interests.

Let us Discuss These Five Principles in Further Detail

Sovereign: In short, being sovereign or sovereignty means the independent authority of a state. The country has the authority to make all the decisions whether it be on internal issues or external issues, without the interference of any third party.

Socialist: Being socialist means the country (and the Govt.), always works for the welfare of the people, who live in that country. There should be many bribes offered to the needy person, basic requirements of them should be fulfilled by any means. No one should starve in such a country.

Secular: There will be no such thing as a state religion, the country does not make any bias on the basis of religion. Every religion must be the same in front of the law, no discrimination on the basis of someone’s religion is tolerated. Everyone is allowed to practice and propagate any religion, they can change their religion at any time.

Republic: In a republic form of Government, the head of the state is elected, directly or indirectly by the people and is not a hereditary monarch. This elected head is also there for a fixed tenure. In India, the head of the state is the president, who is indirectly elected and has a fixed term of office (5 years).

Democratic: By a democratic form of government, means the country’s government is elected by the people via the process of voting. All the adult citizens in the country have the right to vote to elect the government they want, only if they meet a certain age limit of voting.

Merits of Democracy:

better government forms because it is more accountable and in the interest of the people.

improves the quality of decision making and enhances the dignity of the citizens.

provide a method to deal with differences and conflicts.

A democratic system of government is a form of government in which supreme power is vested in the people and exercised by them directly or indirectly through a system of representation usually involving periodic free elections. It permits citizens to participate in making laws and public policies by choosing their leaders, therefore citizens should be educated so that they can select the right candidate for the ruling government. Also, there are some concerns regarding democracy- leaders always keep changing in democracy with the interest of citizens and on the count of votes which leads to instability. It is all about political competition and power, no scope for morality.

Factors Affect Democracy:

capital and civil society

economic development

modernization

Norway and Iceland are the best democratic countries in the world. India is standing at fifty-one position.

India is a parliamentary democratic republic where the President is head of the state and Prime minister is head of the government. The guiding principles of democracy such as protected rights and freedoms, free and fair elections, accountability and transparency of government officials, citizens have a responsibility to uphold and support their principles. Democracy was first practised in the 6 th century BCE, in the city-state of Athens. One basic principle of democracy is that people are the source of all the political power, in a democracy people rule themselves and also respect given to diverse groups of citizens, so democracy is required to select the government of their own interest and make the nation developed by electing good leaders.

FAQs on Democracy Essay for Students in English

1. What are the Features of Democracy?

Features of Democracy are as follows

Equality: Democracy provides equal rights to everyone, regardless of their gender, caste, colour, religion or creed.

Individual Freedom: Everybody has the right to do anything they want until it does not affect another person’s liberty.

Majority Rules: In a democracy, things are decided by the majority rule, if the majority agrees to something, it will be done.

Free Election: Everyone has the right to vote or to become a candidate to fight the elections.

2. Define Democracy?

Democracy means where people have the right to choose the rulers and also people have freedom to express views, freedom to organise and freedom to protest. Protesting and showing Dissent is a major part of a healthy democracy. Democracy is the most successful and popular form of government throughout the globe.

Democracy holds a special place in India, also India is still the largest democracy in existence around the world.

3. What are the Benefits of Democracy?

Let us discuss some of the benefits received by the use of democracy to form a government. Benefits of democracy are: 

It is more accountable

Improves the quality of decision as the decision is taken after a long time of discussion and consultation.

It provides a better method to deal with differences and conflicts.

It safeguards the fundamental rights of people and brings a sense of equality and freedom.

It works for the welfare of both the people and the state.

4. Which country is the largest democracy in the World?

India is considered the largest democracy, all around the world. India decided to have a democratic Govt. from the very first day of its independence after the rule of the British. In India, everyone above the age of 18 years can go to vote to select the Government, without any kind of discrimination on the basis of caste, colour, religion, gender or more. But India, even being the largest democracy, still has a long way to become perfect.

5. Write about the five principles of Democracy?

There are five key principles that are followed in a democracy. These Five Principles of Democracy of India are -  secular, sovereign, republic, socialist, and democratic. These five principles have to be respected by every political party, participating in the general elections in India. The party which got the most votes forms the government which represents the democratic principle. No discrimination is done on the basis of religion which represents the secular nature of democracy. The govt. formed after the election has to work for the welfare of common people which shows socialism in play.

Home — Essay Samples — Government & Politics — Forms of Government — Democracy

Essays on Democracy

Democracy essay topics and outline examples, essay title 1: the evolution of democracy: historical origins, principles, and contemporary challenges.

Thesis Statement: This essay explores the historical roots of democracy, its foundational principles, and the contemporary challenges it faces in the context of modern societies.

• Introduction
• Origins of Democracy: Ancient Greece and Beyond
• Democratic Principles: Rule of Law, Freedom, and Participation
• Democracy in Practice: Case Studies of Democratic Nations
• Challenges to Democracy: Populism, Authoritarianism, and Erosion of Institutions
• Electoral Systems: Voting Methods and Representation
• Media and Democracy: The Role of Information and Misinformation
• Conclusion: Safeguarding Democracy in the 21st Century

Essay Title 2: The Democratic Experiment: Comparative Analysis of Democratic Systems Worldwide

Thesis Statement: This essay conducts a comparative analysis of democratic systems in different countries, highlighting variations in practices, governance structures, and outcomes.

• Democratic Models: Presidential vs. Parliamentary Systems
• Democratic Variations: Federalism and Unitarism
• Elections and Representation: Proportional vs. First-Past-the-Post Systems
• Citizen Participation: Direct Democracy and Referendums
• Case Studies: Analyzing Democracies in Europe, Asia, and the Americas
• Democratic Challenges: Corruption, Voter Suppression, and Civic Engagement
• Conclusion: Lessons Learned from Global Democratic Experiences

Essay Title 3: The Digital Age and Democracy: Technology, Social Media, and the Shaping of Political Discourse

Thesis Statement: This essay examines the influence of technology and social media on democratic processes, including their impact on political communication, public opinion, and election outcomes.

• The Digital Revolution: Internet Access and Political Engagement
• Social Media Platforms: Their Role in Disseminating Information and Disinformation
• Filter Bubbles and Echo Chambers: The Polarization of Political Discourse
• Online Activism: Grassroots Movements and Their Impact
• Regulation and Ethics: Balancing Free Speech and Accountability Online
• Case Studies: Examining Elections and Political Campaigns in the Digital Age
• Conclusion: Navigating the Intersection of Technology and Democracy

Defending Privacy: a Pillar of Autonomy and Democracy

The concepts and fundamental principles of democracy, made-to-order essay as fast as you need it.

Each essay is customized to cater to your unique preferences

+ experts online

What is Functioning Democracy and Its Specification

The concept of democracy and non-democracy, the importance of participation for democracy, the challenges to democracy in "twelve angry men", let us write you an essay from scratch.

• 450+ experts on 30 subjects ready to help
• Custom essay delivered in as few as 3 hours

Strengthening Democracy Through Ensuring The Rights of The Marginalised

Role of civil society in democracy today, the government’s right to rule and citizens’ duty to obey in a democracy, the sacrifices of creating democracy, get a personalized essay in under 3 hours.

Expert-written essays crafted with your exact needs in mind

Digital Democracy and Internet Freedom

Effectively composed parliament through proper electoral system, discussion on whether prisoners should have right to vote, comparing and contrasting analysis of the maximalist and minimalist democracy, democracy: the influence of interest groups on political decisions through lobbying, the possibility of countries in the middle east to ever become democratic, the present situation with democracy in bangladesh, the controversial question of the use of civil disobedience as a method of protest in a democracy, the "bull moose" campaign of 1912, the american constitution as not the only possible basis for the democratic system, successful consolidation of democracy in nigeria & india, evaluation of plato's view of democracy, nigeria’s democracy in the era of fake news, political significance of social media, research of how loss of reputation has played a major role in the decline of indian national congress, the age of jacksonian democracy in america, questioning democracy in thoreau's and melville's works, how pluralist democracy are affected by pressure groups, the state of democracy in africa, abolishing the electoral college: a case for popular vote, relevant topics.

• Andrew Jackson
• Abraham Lincoln
• Electoral College
• Fire Safety
• John F. Kennedy

By clicking “Check Writers’ Offers”, you agree to our terms of service and privacy policy . We’ll occasionally send you promo and account related email

No need to pay just yet!

We use cookies to personalyze your web-site experience. By continuing we’ll assume you board with our cookie policy .

• Instructions Followed To The Letter
• Deadlines Met At Every Stage
• Unique And Plagiarism Free

423 Democracy Essay Topic Ideas & Examples

🏆 best democracy topic ideas & essay examples, 🥇 most interesting democracy topics to write about, 👍 good essay topics on democracy, ✅ simple & easy democracy essay titles, 📌 democracy writing prompts, 🔍 good research topics about democracy, ❓ essay questions about democracy.

• Democracy as the Best Form of Government The implication of this is that all the citizens have an equal voice in the way a nation is governed. This atmosphere, in turn, perpetuates the general growth of a nation.
• Differences and Similarities Between Democracy and Authoritarian Government Essay This implies that the citizens have a way of participating in the formation of the rules and laws by which they are governed. The laws that govern the rights of people and the economy are […]
• What Is the Relationship Between Capitalism and Democracy? The importance of the roles played by the stock market in the capitalistic economy is related considerably to the aspects of democracy and free market.
• Does Democracy Require Equality of Income or Wealth? While wealth equality as the presence of equivalent opportunities to exert political power appears to be the essential factor in establishing democracy, income equality as the opportunity to build wealth is also a factor.
• Leadership Styles: Democratic, Autocratic and Laissez-Faire According to McNichol and Hamer, the participative approach, compared to the other styles, enhances the productivity of employees for a prolonged period of time as it encourages cooperation and increases staff morale. As a democratic […]
• Michelle Obama American Dream Speech Analysis – Michelle’s purpose was to introduce her husband as man who was more concerned about the common citizens’ concerns and who was willing and able to help everyone to realize his/her American dream because he himself […]
• Social Media and Democracy For example, in 2009, during the Iran elections, citizens were able to comment on Facebooks and Youtube, and the whole world was able to follow the election proceedings.
• Democracy in the Philippines Our organizational policy we introduced in the Philippines is the same as the policies we introduced on other countries, i.e, we wanted to be a part in promoting tourism in the country by promoting the […]
• Democratic Governance Concept The United States proves to be a main player in the promotion of democratic governance in countries where conflict dictatorship and war is involved.
• Concept of Democratic Education Theory The learners have greater voice on what to learn and are involved in discussing the content and the structure of their curriculum.
• Plato and Aristotle: Criticisms of Democracy To speak of it in our present time, there are only a few people who are given the power of ‘sound judgement about what is right and what is wrong’ and should have the power […]
• Similarities and Differences Between Communism and Democratic Socialism This is because, according to the proponents of both ideologies, in Capitalist countries, the majority of ordinary citizens are denied the right to have a fair share in the national wealth.
• The Democratic Peace Theory: Merits and Demerits Chioza et al.say that among the reasons that makes it possible to intertwine the democratic peace theory with the liberal theory is that many countries are in dire need of peace. There is a good […]
• Importance of News in Democracy The journalists are always on the lookout for areas of socio political and economic importance with the aim of reporting to the people in order to attract the required responses which may alter the sociopolitical […]
• Democratic vs. Autocratic Leadership Styles Thus, one of the main advantages of the democratic model is that all individuals who are affected by a certain situation have an opportunity to outline their views and participate in decision-making.
• Democracy and Dictatorship As a matter of fact, the paths above show some means that connect political and economic composition of a community to a political institution. The panorama of the existing democracy in this path is weak […]
• Democratic Leadership Styles and Patient Outcomes Democratic leadership positively impacts patient outcomes as it influences nurses to participate in all processes of the organization and contribute to its development.
• “Democracy for the Few” by Michael Parenti In order to consolidate their control over the information that is provided to the representatives of the general public, corporations also started to influence the context of the advertisements.
• Democracy in Modern World All these events in the world history strengthened the thought that democracy is the only right and progressive form of authority in a state that will finally bring the overall population of the state to […]
• Descriptive Meaning of Democracy This term is however modified in meaning nowadays and it can be used in various applications; that is, it is used in a variety of ways depending on the time of use, the place where […]
• Propaganda in the Democratic Society The article focuses on the effects of propaganda on the democracy. In the article, he focuses on his experiences in the media industry with respect to the past and the present news.
• Success or Failure of Democracy In terms of equality in democracy, Tocpeuville observes that this becomes the form of government in a democracy since no one becomes right than the other.
• Leadership Styles: Democratic and Collective The difference between Democratic and Collective Participative styles, however, lies in the role of the leader in decision-making.
• The Taisho Democracy Period in Japanese History The dawn of the Taisho Democracy was marred with uncertainty because the previous emperor was one of the best that Japan has ever had.
• “American Democracy is Doomed” by Matthew Yglesias The author argues that the American constitution is ineffective in finding solutions to political disagreements that could lead to the collapse of the country’s political system.
• To What Extent Is Burma Democracy? This paper, therefore, examines the extent of democracy in Burma with the reference to the political engagement of pro-democratic leaders, the Burma political system, political history, political instability, the influence of the military on the […]
• How Does Revolutionary Communism Compare With Democratic Socialism? Revolutionary communism holds it that the capitalism would never let go of their hold on community and political power and as such, only a violent revolution can result in the changes that communism calls for.
• Modernization and Its Correlation With Democracy The thesis statement In order to understand modernization-democracy link, the advantages and disadvantages concerning the issues’ interdependence, it is necessary to analyze the reasons of the processes of modernization and the ways they transformed democratic […]
• Democracy, Political Power, and Public Policy Issues 1 Now, the question of balance between democracy and political power is as relevant as it was decades ago, being the center of the debate in the United States and the rest of the world.
• Democratic Society: Basic Values and Priorities Political equality is another concept that exists within the domain of democracy about the political rights that should be given to all members of a democratic society.
• Becoming a Citizen in a Democratic Society The government has not helped the situation as it has denied the parents the opportunity to discipline the children by allowing children to report cases of punishment to the police.
• The Possibility of Democracy and Development Within the African State This infiltration of arms and weapons into the hands of civilians undermines development and democracy in the continent. This attempt to impose the whole concept of democracy, as it were, in America in a single […]
• Democracy: Definition, Types, Systems and Benefits Democracy is a type of governance where people participate in making laws and rules; “it is the political regime where people will become the law of the country”.
• Public Speaking in a Democracy Public speaking actually matters for a democracy, because it is a good and sometimes the only chance to save democracy that is eroding now, to improve communicative skills, and to underline the problems that prevent […]
• Structures of Direct Democracy in California Others may argue that the proposition is a strength of direct democracy because it allows for the people’s will to be directly expressed and implemented.
• A Dream Deferred and Democracy by Langston Hughes But if they over dry, they will become hard to chew and lose all the nutrition, This warns us of the consequences that may befall us if we sit there and wait for conditions to […]
• What Is Democratic Consolidation? It is important to note that regimes in the ‘gray zone” are those that are in the third wave of democratization.
• Three Important Features of our Democracy The system of governance is accountable to the people meaning that the leaders have to be concerned about the rule of law and defense of the fundamental rights of their citizens.
• Are Propositions, Recalls, and Referendums Democratic? According to this kind of leadership, a government is a social body retrieving its authority from the population and should always promote the will of the masses, especially the majority.
• In a Democratic Britain, the Monarchy Is an Anachronism The presence of the queen as the head of state instils a sense of responsibility and ethics among the political leaders.
• Robespierre From Democracy to Totalitarianism Consequently, as a result of the failure of the constitutional monarch and the foreign wars that threatened the French Jacobins, the Committee of Public Safety was constituted in part of the new Republic, on April […]
• Citizenship Education and Democracy In simple terms, the role of educators is to teach children to be true citizens who can contribute to the evolvement of their countries.
• Failed Democracy in Pakistan and Nigeria The occurrence of military coups in the past is something that explains why those in leadership positions have failed to implement powerful mechanisms to support democracy and meet the demands of the greatest number of […]
• Community Engagement in Democracy Building The first form of community engagement is the effort made by public administrators aimed at encouraging communities to participate in social and political processes.
• Organizational Theory: Democratic Leadership Taylorism is based on the theory of scientific management and the idea that output is linked to payment. Moreover, the framework implies the presence of a string hierarchy, which can be damaging to the morale […]
• Types of Democracy Known to Modern Society In conclusion, some of the types of democracy are representative, participatory, and deliberative. Deliberative is a rather intriguing form of democracy, where people are randomly chosen to express views.
• Stock Market Performance During Republican and Democratic Presidencies To compare the stock market performance during Republican and Democratic presidencies, the stock market data for the S&P 500 index over the past few decades were computed.
• The Democrats and the Whigs of 1830-1840 The Jacksonian Democrats and the Wigs were interested in American society’s modernization and economic development. However, the parties had different views on achieving economic efficiency and prosperity and the role of government in the economy.
• Democratic Development in Colombia vs. Peru After a downturn in 2015 and a boom in 2009 due to the global financial crisis of 2008, the country’s economy is back on track as of 2016 and is riding the rising tide that […]
• Emerging Democracy and Education in South Africa In the process of education reformation, the example of South Africa can be used to demonstrate the ability to shape the democratic mindset of the population by increasing the focus on critical thinking and civic […]
• American Democracy: Role of Anger The fact that the incident on January 6 was followed by a number of occasions where agents were seen engaged in sensitive operations makes it feasible to comprehend the explanation behind the public’s mistrust of […]
• Populism and Its Influence on Democracy Essentially, it explores the connections shared between Populism and authoritarianism and the potential democratic setbacks that might arise from the rise of authoritarian Populism.
• Women’s Rights: Democratic Perceptions Therefore, it is proper to claim that women would not be able to exercise their rights and freedoms as frequently without the efforts of Democrats.
• The Work “Republic” by Plato: Arguments for Democracy The primary argument that democracy is worse than timarchy and oligarchy derives directly from the text of Republic, where Socrates agrees that only tyranny is worse than democracy.
• Democracy: The Influence of Freedom Democracy is the basis of the political systems of the modern civilized world. Accordingly, the democracy of Athens was direct that is, without the choice of representatives, in contrast to how it is generated nowadays.
• The Article “Plato on Democracy and Expertise” by R. W. Sharples The central message permeating the writing is that the rigidity of truth on which the conceptual model of democracy is built is a problem since any system needs to acknowledge the malleability of the underlying […]
• Is a Secret Ballot a Basic Tenet of Democracy? The Supremacy Clause establishes that federal laws, constitutions, and regulations take precedence over state laws.”This Constitution, and the Laws of the United States…under the Authority of the United States, will be the supreme Law of […]
• Encouraging Voter Participation in Democratic Election Process The voting process should be concerned with high voter turnout rather than trust since losing legislatures is responsible for the lack of trust among voters in the entire process.
• Processes of Democratization in Spain, Portugal, and Greece Kornetis and Cavallaro claim that the processes of democratization resulted in the collapse of “the Francoist regime, the Salazar-Caetano regime of Estado Novo, and the Colonels’ military dictatorship in Greece “.
• Democracy and Its Crucial Features The equality of income and wealth remain the central issue of democracy, since, though democratic societies strive to egalitarianism, they fall short of ensuring equal income and wealth to everyone.
• Can the Democrats Win Back Rural Voters? The article used the Movement Lab approach to be able to win back the rural voters. The article relates to voting and election topic because it deals with voter turnout and strategies to be used […]
• Threat of Cyber Operations to Democracy and National Security Among its most important characteristics include the recognition of individual’s dignity, respect for equality, faith in the rule of the majority, and respect for the rights of the minority.
• Women’s Rights and the Advancement of Democracy The degree of citizen involvement in the political process, including the participation of various social groups in political parties and decision-making bodies, determines the quality of democracy in addition to the structure of current political […]
• Aspects of Democratic Regimes In the textbook, Dickovick and Eastwood, democratic regimes are described as ones where people individually and groups have the ability to voice and contest their ideas, as well as the opportunity to shape political life […]
• Characteristics of American Democracy Conversely, American democracy allows everyone and anybody to have the same opportunities regardless of the situation it is about, based on equal rights in the United States.
• Democrats Caught in Election-Year Gambit With Bloated Gas Prices These Midterms would be one of the most consequential in history as they will likely decide the political gridlock and demonstrate the voter confidence in the party that wins the majority.
• Abstracts for “Democracy: What’s It Good For?” and “The New Concert of Powers” The subject of the essay Democracy: What’s It Good For? is related to the issues of democracy in terms of its efficiency regarding the misinformation and irrationality of people’s choices.
• Corruption in Infrastructure of the Democratic Republic of Congo The mining companies are negatively affected by rampant corruption and a culture of everyday transactions, which has resulted in the misappropriation of public funds.
• Corruption in the Democratic Republic of Congo This is a comprehensive report published by the IMF that examines in tremendous detail the corruption, policy, and frameworks of governance and corruption in the DRC.
• Struggles of Democracy: Social Insurance Programs There are always segments of people in the society who struggle more than the general population, and by taking measures, the government increases the economic growth and general well-being.
• The UK Parliament and Democratic Legislature The critical point about the UK Parliament is the importance of tradition in its structure and functioning, affecting the selection process, the arrangement of power, and the communication between the members of the Parliament.
• Jackson Democracy: Transformation of American Conservatism Andrew Jackson was the 7th president of the United States of America, his term of office lasted from 1829 to 1837.
• The Meaning of Liberal Democracy in the US The establishment of diplomatic relations with the USSR during Roosevelt’s presidency was an important event in the history of the two states and the entire history of the world.
• Democracy in Ancient Greece and Today From the lecture, I discovered that the word democracy partly originates from the word demes which means the small division of the bigger sections that Athens was divided into during the ancient time.
• The Diplock Courts and the Democratic Society The legal definition of the term is still ambiguous, but the best definition is considered to be the achievement of ideological, political, economic, or religious goals by violent means.
• “Korean Film: History, Resistance, and Democratic Imagination” by Min et al. The key message of the article in question is that Korean film culture is complex and heterogeneous, but it has yet to receive at the time of writing the attention it deserves from the progressive […]
• Jury Service as an Essential Part of the Democracy A Jury Service is an integral part of the U.S.judicial branch, due to which people can make responsible decisions and understand that their opinion is essential to the state.
• Democracy, Republicanism, and Liberalism in 19th Century Mexico and Colombia They emphasized the role of Mexico and its republican, democratic, and liberal principles in those changes. They started to imitate the political principles in Europe and the U.
• The Democratic Radicals and Conservatives Struggle of American Government The roots of the American government can be traced back to the aftermath of the American civil war and the results of the American War of Independence.
• Zinn’s and Schweikart’s Beliefs on American Democracy Namely, Zinn’s personal assumptions concerning the problem of racism and colonialism as the cornerstone of inequality in the U.S.are represented clearly in the book.
• Trust and Democracy Overview It will create a status quo where the American model of democracy that has been recognized and revered in the world is no longer a democracy but merely an illusion of one.
• Racial Democracy in Brazil Racial democracy in Brazil is a phenomenon connected to the idea that racial differences encourage individuals to look for a broad identity that would include every population presented in the country.
• Democratic Republic of Congo’s Refugee Crisis The refugee crisis in the Democratic Republic of Congo is one example of how refugees suffer because of poor healthcare access and the inability to provide for themselves.
• Plato’s Views on Democracy Plato’s point of view appeared to me as a more appealing out of the two presented opinions on the best course for a political regime within a country.
• How to Make People Who Support Democrats Believe in Aliens The ones who are convinced in their existence the way they trust the course of actions proposed by Democrats help overcome the threat for the stability of the government.
• “After War: The Political Economy of Exporting Democracy” by Coyne The reason for this is that the United States has used the excuse of protecting democracy when interfering in the internal affairs of different states.
• “Engendering Democracy in Brazil” by Sonia Alvarez In addition, the review integrates information acquired from essays by Barbara Nelson and Saint-Germain regarding gender equality and the electoral participation of women in democratic processes.
• Deliberative Democracy as an Improvement of Democratic Participation More specifically, the schools of a democratic system of most significant interest are deliberative democracy and democratic participation. At the same time, deliberative democracy realizes the political interest of every citizen in a thorough discussion.
• America’s Voting Democracy: Failing After All Even though the United States did not start as a democracy and it took hundreds of years to ensure voting rights for the general populations in its entirety, these are still not the grounds to […]
• Theories of Global Politics. Democracy Effectiveness In the classical theme of ancient Athenian society, it is the representation of the ‘will of the people’ and had to include the views of all citizens in the decision making matters.
• Democratic Rule and Educated Citizenry They may think it is simply a matter of taxing big business in order to get something for the whole town, when, in reality, the higher tax will result in lower needed investment in the […]
• How Social Media Could Threaten Democracy The next paragraph of this law will state that an organization must prove that it is based in the country to run a politically related ad on social media.
• Russia’s Contemporary Political Regime not Democratic Following the collapse of the Soviet Union, Boris Yeltsin was elected the first president of the Russian Federation on the 12th in June 1991. Some argue that the idea of politics as a mean for […]
• The Internet is a Democratic Technology As opposed to what in the media channels of communication where the information let out to the public is filtered and influenced by what the government want the people to know, the Internet is free […]
• Democratic Principle: The Constitution of the US The two major democratic principles are closely interrelated and the parties involved into them can actually change places from time to time: the minority has the right to become the majority, thus the latter becomes […]
• International Political Economy, Democratization, and Terrorism IPE describes the global power dynamics that control international trade and finance, fuel globalization, and wealth distribution across the globe. Sachs argues that globalization and the emergence of political economics have led to the increased […]
• The New State of Israel: A Block to the Development of Democracy Since the infamous Palestine conflict is rooted deeply in political, cultural, social, and religious misconceptions between the Jewish and the Muslim residents of the area, the advocacy of the current Israeli strategy concerning the emphasis […]
• Internet Function and Potential in a Democratic Society This situation is comparable to the Medieval Age before the introduction of printing in the 1440s. The church and the courts monopolized books, and the population had no chance to learn an alternative opinion on […]
• Who Governs? Democracy and Power in an American City’ by Robert Dahl A political stratum is defined as a group of individuals who take an active position in the political life of the country.
• Democratic Presidential Nominees for 2020 American society is a complex concept with many determinants, and the election of the President in the country is one of the most significant events because it shows the achieved progress and preferred values.
• Truthful Information for Building a Democracy Democracy is defined as the rule of the people, by the people for the people. Greenberg and page argue that for a democratic government to be established, information is of the essence.
• Francis Fukuyama: Can Liberal Democracy Survive the Decline of the Middle Class? Then, the author shifts to explaining the importance of the existence of a strong and abundantly represented in the society middle class layer as it is a foundation for all the democratic values in the […]
• Democracy in Asia India and the Price of Peaceful Change In his last kick, Gandhi decided to encourage the Indians to make their own salt, which was the most taxed by the British government.
• Israel as the Jewish and Democratic State: Can It Be Possible? However, the historical evaluation of the situation in Israel and the development of the Israel-Palestinian conflict that led to the Israel war of independence in 1948 and continues today shows that it is not an […]
• Ancient Democracy: Review All of the Athenians were involved in the process of selecting the candidates for the positions of the Archons the advisors to the ruler of the city.
• The Democratic Presidential Debate The part of the debate concerning the immigration policies and the candidate’s views of them is highly representative of the overall rhetorical strategies in use.
• “Inequality, Democracy, and the Environment” by Downey Liam Downey examines in his work Inequality, democracy, and the environment, the nature of these problems and tries to explain the causes of their occurrence.
• Organizational Culture: Democratic Leadership Democratic leadership would be an effective approach to leading others in the workplace because members of a group are allowed to offer their ideas that are applied to solve problems.
• Differences Between the Democrats and Republicans The activin expression in a marrow stromal cells is however regulated by the incubation with the necrosis factor of the tumor and the interleukin 1 alpha.
• Democracy Emergence in Ancient Greece and Why Plato Was Opposed to It The result of this war was the defeat of Athens by Sparta at the end of the fifth century which led to the overthrow of many democratic regimes.
• Democracy: Forms, Requirements and Homosexuality Democracy exists in two major forms there is the liberal democracy which is a very capitalistic economic approach in nature while the other form is a socialist democracy that embraces economic aspects like subsidies and […]
• Democratic Governance and Policy Networks The contribution of each of these actors was valuable for improving the quality of legislation which became the result of the collaborative work of the interested parties.
• Rape as a Weapon of War: Democratic Republic of Congo While some researchers argue that the occurrence of wartime rape, with its frequency, savagery and systematic organization during these times, is inherently entwined with the nature of the conflicts, most of them emphasize that the […]
• A Government and Basic Democratic Requirements to It In pluralism, the people who make policies are the top government officials and they do not involve the public. The relevance of involvement in the implementation of government policies is not clear to the citizens.
• “Jihad Versus Mcworld” by Benjamen Barber: Tribalism and Globalism Threat to Democracy The forces of Jihad and the forces of McWorld are fighting for sovereignty and neither supports democracy. It is the decentralization of confederations that may save democracy, according to Barber.
• Parliamentary Democracy: Will of the People Representation The party with the majority votes is sought to be representing the will of the people. In The will of the people: Notes towards a dialectical voluntarism, Peter Hallward states that the will of the […]
• Terrorism and Liberal Democracy: What We Should Know When confronted with external coercion like global terrorism, democracies react like a pendulum by first of all providing security and then vacillating back in the direction of moderation, the quest of lenience, and the encouragement […]
• Is the Constitution Supportive of Today’s Democracy? Additionally, one of the dominant elements in most constitutions is the principle of democracy which refers to the government by the people for the people themselves.
• Jihad vs. Mcworld Article: How Globalization Hinders Democracy In the recent past, most economies in the world have been adopting strategies aimed at increasing democracy in all areas of the economy i.e.political, economic, social, etc.globalization is one of the factors that influence the […]
• Benjamin’s Concept of Democracy Against Bennett’s Propositions on News and Democracy However, what seems good to many seems to work better and much more acceptable, from this point of view it is fair to reiterate Churchill’s pronouncement that, the present democracy is the best of all […]
• Democratic Transition in Asian Communities As long as the authorities in some Asian countries are elected, democracies in these countries still lack the characteristics which can be associated with democracy in other parts of the world.”In other words, if a […]
• The Sources of Leadership and Democracy in Britain Also, the powers of the British Government are derived from the appeal or iron authority of the British rulers to the party blocs rather than from the power of the influence of the leaders to […]
• Democratization Theories at the Present Political Map The world history witnessed a great number of changes in the political state of countries, in the form of ruling and the change as well as the form of power in every state existing nowadays.
• Democracy Is the Best Form of Government for All the World’s Inhabitants The challenge to the leaders, therefore, is to provide good leadership and governance to reciprocate the good work of the voters.
• Democratic Empowerment via Village Elections During Imperial China The villager assembly oversees the progress of the VCs and ensures that the decisions they make are for the common good of the rest of the villagers.
• Anti-Democratic Movement and Path of Democratization According to Lijphart, the Westminster model of democracy provides a throughout insight into the essence of democracy not only in the United Kingdom but in the rest of the world as well.
• Democrats vs. Republicans: Who Is Superior? The differences between the democratic regimes and the republicans have been described using all sorts of criteria. Under democrats, the lower 20% of the population tends to match the income growth of the top 5%.
• Study of Liberal Democracy In the true sense of liberal democracy, the government is chosen by the voters, and in this sense, the government should answer to the people.
• Torture and Democratic Society 1948, United Nations General Assembly, after the second world war adopted the Universal declaration on human rights, which prohibits the use of torture or any other form of inhuman or demeaning treatment or punishment In […]
• The State, Democracy and Globalization In order for people to understand the government there should be a system of communicating the state policies to the local individuals.
• Ideology of Race and the New Democratic Nation His main argument in this matter is that whilst racism did not at first lead the colonists in enslaving the blacks, the concept of the native hereditary inferiority on the component of Africans and African […]
• Ideology of the Democratic Party The Democratic Party of USA is the oldest political party in the world. Dilemma and destiny: the Democratic Party in America.
• Comparing Democracy Effort Between Mali and the USA Abraham Lincoln defined it as a government of the people, for the people and by the people. The main function of the judiciary in Mali is the protection and guard of human rights and freedoms.
• Venezuela: A Democracy Under Siege This essay will critically evaluate Venezuela in different aspects in the following order : democratic principles and the constitution, political systems, economic policies and institutions, the media, and civil societies to show how Chavez is […]
• A Critique on Deliberative Democracy The belief that the United States of America is a democratic country automatically create the assumption that it is a government by the people, for the people, and of the people as laid down by […]
• Will China Become Democratic in Near Future? China, being one of the countries yet truly to begin the process of democratization, stands on a point that future progress will be important not only for the people in China but also for the […]
• Relationship Between Democracy and Violence in Colombia The escalating violence in the 1980s has in fact, watered-down Colombia’s democratic governance mainly because of the country’s incapacity to tame the violence.
• Relationship Between Democracy and the State If leaders are not visionary and their ideas are not cohesive, the situation leads to the formation of splinter groups within the state, a condition that is unbefitting for the health of a democracy.
• The Role of Education in Democracy Propaganda is in itself an aspect of education where the Public Information Committee provided some knowledge on the certain issues surrounding the war in order to win public support.
• Democracy Threats in Australia Governance as the rule of the people by the people has been more subjected to the teachings of democracy that have been adopted as a form of governance.
• Modern China – Is True Democracy Still a Dream? There is a dormant-volcano kind of “sub-terranean tensions” that seem to herald the beginning of the end for communism in China.
• The Battle Over Democracy Within Burma However, the military government in Burma remained controlling the political affairs and economy of the country which made the condition of the people to get worse.
• The Synergy Between Capitalism and Democracy Democracy and its success: Democracy refers to a political system in which the political part of the government is elected through adult suffrage.
• The Nature of Democracy in the Period 1871-1914 Moreover, the doctrine emphasized the essence of human rights, such as treatment of every citizen equally notwithstanding gender, race or class, the essence of the rule of law and the essence of having a government, […]
• Elitism and Democracy Relations Essentially the crux of the theory emphasizes the influence and role of a small elite percentage of the total population of a country in holding immense power in running the affairs of that state irrespective […]
• American Imperialism and Democracy It comes with increased control as well as the subjection of the conquered to the rules and the demands of the conqueror.
• Democrats and Rebuplicans Political Campaigns However, due to the fact that the American economy was at a dying point, Barrack Obama promised that if he was elected the president, he would consider various factors in the matter of taxation.
• Democracy: The Greatest Gift Enlighten-Ica Can Give The president of the United States of Enlighten-ica gives a speech about combating terrorism and putting an end to it once and for all.
• Classical Political Thought. Democracy in Plato’s Republic During Plato’s life, the democratic constitution set the seal on the work of the tyranny, for it ensured the exclusion of the large landowner from a predominating influence on politics, and it put effective power […]
• Elements of Democracy and Constitutionalism A country’s system of governance, which may be termed as democratic, should carry in its constitution the empowerment to reflect the freedom of the people to choose, as well as other issues, the rule of […]
• Aspect of Democracy in Seattle The Seattle Convention Centre in the city was the setting of the final session of the World Trade Organization of the millennium.
• Democracy and Dictatorship in Ancient Greece and Today Recalling the speech of Thucydides, democracy is when the power is in the hands of not a minority but of the whole people when all are equal before the law when political life is free […]
• Habermas’s Theory of Democracy His views are widely regarded as crucial in such issues as economic and social development, the role of the responsible intellectual, the issues of the Holocaust, the roots of authoritarian power, and the prospects for […]
• The Level of Democracy in Singapore and Thailand It is worth noting that since the collapse of Russia and seeming the end of the communism empire, most countries in East Asia like China and Vietnam have been slowly moving to more democratic governments […]
• Democratic Breakdown in Latin America Alternatively, what was the role of leadership and political choice in causing the breakdown of the democratic regime in Latin America?
• Canada as a Liberal Capitalist Democracy It includes also the re-organization of the enterprises in order to make a profit, for instance, changing management of the enterprise or adding new departments in the organization.
• Democracy Within the Realm of a Republic The two systems have been in conflict since antique times, and are of special evidence in the actual and in the philosophic histories of antique Greece, particularly in the writings of Plato and Aristotle.
• Urban Democracy and Capitalism For example, surveys show that people increasingly identify with the planetary scale, the local scale, and a whole series of spaces in between.
• Democratic Party in the US: History and Analysis The Whigs and the Democrats strongly opposed each other’s beliefs, public policies, and supporters.of the many issues the Whigs and the Democrats disagreed on, slavery, banking, and tariffs were the most prominent arguments.
• Democratic Consolidation in Africa
• Public Opinion: The Image of Democracy by Lippmann
• Democracy and Freedom in Pakistan
• Success of Democracy in US: Comparative Approach for Explaining
• Enemies of American Democracy
• Democracy Development in the World up to 1500 CE
• Greek Legacy in a Contemporary Democratic State
• Republican Versus Democrat Political Beliefs
• Strangers in the US Democracy
• Is Democratization Leading to a More Secure World?
• Federalists and Democrats in the 19th Century
• “Terror and Democracy at the Age of Stalin” by Goldman
• Globalization and Democratization Effects on Libya
• Western Liberal and Democratic Values
• UNDP and USAID: Source Evaluation
• “Democracy and International Relations in Asia” by Acharya
• Democratic Globalization and Its Benefits
• ‘Democrats, Republicans Agree on a Budget Deal’ by Silverleib and Cohen
• Comparative Democratization and Dictatorships
• Technology and Democratic Education
• Democracy Promotion and Humanitarian Intervention
• Media and Democracy: Free Press and Fake News
• Empire and Democracy Conflict by Thucydides
• Democracy: Perception and Application
• Democracy and Oligarchy: the Meaning of Equality
• Democracy in Sudan: Key Factors
• Earth Democracy: Beyond Dead Democracy and Killing Economies
• Democracy in Egypt: Key Factors
• Politics of the Democratic Republic of Congo
• Globalization Impact on Africa’s Democratization Process
• Democratic Deficit in the European Union
• Democracy Concerns and Exaggerated Challenges
• Constitutional Amendments to Expand Democracy
• Struggle for Democracy: President Interview
• The United States of America and Its Democracy
• Okuma Shigenobu and Modern Democracy in Japan
• Federalists vs. Democratic-Republicans in the US
• Ruling America: Wealth and Power in a Democracy
• The United States Promoting Democracy in Africa
• Democratic Leadership, Value System, Followership
• Tunisian Transition to Democracy and Its Specificities
• Kuwait’s Democratization and Its Challenges
• Democratic Consolidation in Asia
• Leader Selection in Liberal Democratic Minimalism
• American Democracy’ History: Turner’s Thesis
• Teaching Standards, Democracy and World Learning
• Religious Fundamentalism’ and Democracy’ Comparison
• American Democracy and Equality Criticism
• Founding Fathers as Democratic Reformers
• Egyptian Democracy and Citizens’ Readiness for It
• Why Japan Was Able to Build a Successful Democracy?
• Democracy and Religion: Modern Theories
• Democratic Transitions: Weaknesses and Challenges
• Democracy and Peaceful International Relations
• Democracy: Features and Impact on Peace
• American Democracy: Federal Government vs. States’ Rights
• The Taliban Insurgency: Democracy in Dangerous Places
• Human Development: Democratization and Economy’ Relations
• Democracy Promotion: Unilateralism vs. Multilateralism
• US Promotion of Democracy: Tools and Approaches
• Political Corruption as a Trigger of Democracy
• Democracy in the United States System
• Can Democracy Be Successfully Exported by Force?
• Youth Participation in Democracy: China
• Chinese Democratic Dictatorship Essence
• Sustainable Democracy in Developing Countries
• Democracy Versus Other Forms of Government
• The US’s Democracy Features
• Egypt Democratization Process
• Chinese Democracy in the Documentary “Please Vote for Mes”
• Democracy and Wealthy Americans Policy
• The History of Democracy in Libya
• The Development of America’s Democracy
• American Democracy and Society
• Democrats and Republicans Comparative Analysis
• Democracy and Religion in Turkey Government
• The Centripetal Theory of Democratic Governance
• Can Judicial Review Be Reconciled With Democracy?
• Canadian Social Democracy Historical Evolution
• America’s Democracy History: Constitutional Perspectives
• China’s Democracy Movement
• Machiavelli’s Views on Democratization and Their Relation to Modern Politics
• Peace and Democracy: US Impact in the Middle East
• Outbreak Democratic Institutions
• Major Shifts in the Politics of Republican and Democratic Parties
• The National Curriculum for England and Wales From an Ideal Democratic Learning Society Perspective
• The Foundation of Democracy: Waiting for the King to Come
• Economic and Political Liberalism and Democracy
• Possibility of Attaining a Democracy in the Middle East
• Conflicts in Syria Present No Opportunity for Future Democratization
• Democracy and Global Peace
• Principles of Democratic Structuring
• Form of Political Ideology: Social Democracy
• Is Sectarianism an Obstacle to the Democratization of Iraq?
• Islam and Democracy in Egypt
• Copyright and Democratic Governance
• How Chinese Cultural Revolution Influenced Modern Democracy in China
• Should Democracy Be Adopted by All Nations?
• “The Globalization Paradox: Democracy and the Future of the World Economy” by Rodrik, D
• Liberal Democracy, Anti-Semitism and the Holocaust
• Partial Democracy and Governance Assessment in Egypt
• Rohr and Rosenbloom on Democracy
• How Does Turkey’s Greater Democratization Influence the Handling of the Cyprus Dispute?
• Is Majority Rule Democratic?
• Danish Aid to Africa: Implication for Civil Society & Democracy
• What Is More Valuable in a Liberal Democracy: Positive or Negative Liberty?
• Democracy and Economic Growth: Asia-Pacific Region Experiences
• FDR’s New Deal: Democratic Platform
• Capitalism, Democracy and the Treaty of Waitangi are Three Ways Through Which We in Aotearoa ‘Organise’ Ourselves
• Taxes, Capitalism, and Democracy: Karl Marx vs. Plato
• Amu Chua: How Exporting Free Market Democracy Breeds Ethnic Hatred and Global Instability
• Democracy Measures in United Kingdom, France, Japan and China
• Democracy and Power in Online World
• Democracy and Custom in Samoa
• Brazil: Embracing Structural Changes to Consolidate Democracy
• Democracy Strategy for the Middle East Countries
• Democratic Racism in Canada
• The Liberal Position of Democrats and Republicans
• Social Construction of “Race” and “Racism” and Its Relationship to Democratic Racism in Canada
• Views of American Muslims on Democracy
• The Probability for Libya to Become a Democracy
• Ancient Greek Democracy That Still Makes People Strive for Perfection
• The Concept of Democracy by Force
• Unitary Versus Adversary Democracy
• Rapid Growth as a Destabilizing Force to Effective Democracy
• Can Democracy Be Spread by Force?
• Democratization Process in Argentina
• Democratic Governments Role in the Global Economy
• The Main Impacts of the Civil War in the Democratic Republic of Congo
• What Is ‘Liberal Representative Democracy’ and Does the Model Provide an Appropriate Combination of Freedom and Equality?
• Transition to Democracy in Latin America
• Democracy in Canada
• Understanding Greek Culture’s Influence on Democratic Ideas
• The Complex Term of Democracy
• How Development Leads to Democracy
• The Relationship Between Democracy and Islam in Indonesia
• Democracy System of Government
• History of Athenian Democracy
• Democratic Influence on Public Policies
• Democratization and the Indigenous Languages of Mexico and Venezuela
• The Required Freedom and Democracy in Afghanistan
• The Need for Ethical Leadership and Governance in Democracy
• The Democratic Process in Canada: The Role Played by Political Parties
• China’s Democracy Perspective and Practice
• History of the Role of Democracy in the World
• Democracy in the Policy of United States of America
• Democracy’s Problems and Principles
• Was Kant Wrong to Argue that Democracy Brings Peace Between States?
• In What Ways Did American Culture Become More Democratic in the Early 19th Century
• Is America a True Democracy?
• Islam, Democracy and the West Summary
• Inequality and American Democracy
• Democracy in America: Critical Summary
• Government and Democracy
• American Political Culture History
• What Makes Democracy Succeed or Fail?
• Democracy Movement in the Middle East
• Euro Zone Crisis: Does It Contribute to Democratic Deficit?
• Influence of the American Media in Promotion of Democratic Values in the United States of America
• Was Saddam Hussein’s Execution an Essential Point in Establishing Democracy in Iraq?
• The Democracy Promotion in the Middle East by US
• Democracy in the Aristophane’s Work “The Acharnians”
• The Main Threat to the Modern Democracy
• New “Act on Democracy and Human Rights in Belarus” Passed by the US Congress
• Africa Regional Conference: Should Democracy Be Promoted in Africa?
• Fake Democracy and Patriotism: “Give Me Liberty” by Naomi Wolf
• The Spread of Democracy
• Democracy Concepts and Principles
• Does Political Participation Challenge Democracy or Enhance It?
• Modern American History: In Pursuit of Democracy
• Democracy in Indonesia, Thailand and Vietnam
• Internet and Democracy in US
• The Rise of Democracy
• The Democratic Party vs. the Republican Party as Organizing Political Structures
• Modernization and Democracy
• America and Democracy, at Home and Abroad, During and Just After the First World War
• An Analysis of Kirkpatrick Jennet’s Uncivil Disobedience: Studies in Violence and Democratic Politics
• Democrat or Republican: Political Party Preferences
• Democracy and Its Types
• What True Majority Democracy Is About?
• American Government, Balancing Democracy and Rights
• Modernization and Democratization
• Socialism & Democracy: Fundamental Believes and Concepts
• Democratic and Undemocratic Elements of the Constitution
• What Are the Differences Between Democracy and Dictatorship?
• Why Is the Oldest Democracy in Asia Doomed to Failure?
• What Can Valid Criticisms Be Made of Liberal Democracy?
• Why Isn’t Democracy Slowing Down the Rise in Inequality?
• What Effect Does Facebook Have on Democracy?
• Why Does Unregulated Capitalism Undermine the Legitimacy of Liberal Democracy?
• Why Does the Kuwaiti Parliament Misunderstanding the Idea of Democracy for Women?
• What Is the Relationship Between Political Democracy and Economic Growth?
• What Factors Affect the Survival of a Liberal Democracy?
• Why Can Burma not Have a Democracy?
• What Is the Connection Between Economic Inequality and Democracy?
• What Is True Majority Democracy Is About?
• How Has the Magna Carta Affected American Democracy?
• What Are the Pros and Cons of Pressure Groups on Democracy in the United Kingdom?
• How Does the Population of the United States Fight for Democracy?
• What Challenges Are Posed by International Terrorism to Democracy?
• What Hope Can Democracy Bring to S&T Policy Making in Latin America?
• What Is the Relationship Between Democracy and Religion?
• Why Japan Was Able To Build a Successful Democracy?
• What Is the Role of Political Parties in Democracy?
• Why Does Democracy Facilitate Development?
• What Are the Defining Elements of Democracy Politics?
• Why Does the American Democracy Not Work?
• Why Did Democracy Develop in Britain After 1850?
• What Characteristics Are Vital for a Democracy To Succeed?
• What Are the Unique Traits of Athenian Democracy?
• Where Is Indian Democracy Heading Today?
• What Is the Role of Cultural Factors in Moving a Country Towards Liberal Democracy?
• What Was Wrong With the Ancient Athenian Democracy?
• Dictatorship Topics
• Capitalism Paper Topics
• Individualism Topics
• Cultural Relativism Questions
• Human Rights Essay Ideas
• Utilitarianism Research Ideas
• Conservatism Essay Titles
• Economic Inequality Questions
• Chicago (A-D)
• Chicago (N-B)

IvyPanda. (2024, March 2). 423 Democracy Essay Topic Ideas & Examples. https://ivypanda.com/essays/topic/democracy-essay-examples/

"423 Democracy Essay Topic Ideas & Examples." IvyPanda , 2 Mar. 2024, ivypanda.com/essays/topic/democracy-essay-examples/.

IvyPanda . (2024) '423 Democracy Essay Topic Ideas & Examples'. 2 March.

IvyPanda . 2024. "423 Democracy Essay Topic Ideas & Examples." March 2, 2024. https://ivypanda.com/essays/topic/democracy-essay-examples/.

1. IvyPanda . "423 Democracy Essay Topic Ideas & Examples." March 2, 2024. https://ivypanda.com/essays/topic/democracy-essay-examples/.

Bibliography

IvyPanda . "423 Democracy Essay Topic Ideas & Examples." March 2, 2024. https://ivypanda.com/essays/topic/democracy-essay-examples/.

By the People: Essays on Democracy

Harvard Kennedy School faculty explore aspects of democracy in their own words—from increasing civic participation and decreasing extreme partisanship to strengthening democratic institutions and making them more fair.

Winter 2020

By Archon Fung , Nancy Gibbs , Tarek Masoud , Julia Minson , Cornell William Brooks , Jane Mansbridge , Arthur Brooks , Pippa Norris , Benjamin Schneer

The basic terms of democratic governance are shifting before our eyes, and we don’t know what the future holds. Some fear the rise of hateful populism and the collapse of democratic norms and practices. Others see opportunities for marginalized people and groups to exercise greater voice and influence. At the Kennedy School, we are striving to produce ideas and insights to meet these great uncertainties and to help make democratic governance successful in the future. In the pages that follow, you can read about the varied ways our faculty members think about facets of democracy and democratic institutions and making democracy better in practice.

Explore essays on democracy

Archon fung: we voted, nancy gibbs: truth and trust, tarek masoud: a fragile state, julia minson: just listen, cornell william brooks: democracy behind bars, jane mansbridge: a teachable skill, arthur brooks: healthy competition, pippa norris: kicking the sandcastle, benjamin schneer: drawing a line.

Get smart & reliable public policy insights right in your inbox. 

• Quote of the Day
• Picture Quotes

Democracy Quotes

Standart top banner.

We the people are the rightful masters of both Congress and the courts, not to overthrow the Constitution but to overthrow the men who pervert the Constitution.

Our country's founders cherished liberty, not democracy.

What can the schools do to defend democracy? Should they preach a specific political doctrine? I believe they should not. If they are able to teach young people to have a critical mind and a socially oriented attitude, they will have done all that is necessary.

Truth is relative. Truth is what you can make the voter believe is the truth. If you're smart enough, truth is what you make the voter think it is. That's why I'm a Democrat. I can make the Democratic voters think whatever I want them to.

The Greeks had invented democracy, built the Acropolis and called it a day.

A newspaper is a device for making the ignorant more ignorant and the crazy crazier.

Dictatorship naturally arises out of democracy, and the most aggravated form of tyranny and slavery out of the most extreme liberty.

Democracy is nothing but the Tyranny of Majorities, the most abominable tyranny of all, for it is not based on the authority of a religion, not upon the nobility of a race, not on the merits of talents and of riches. It merely rests upon numbers and hides behind the name of the people.

The cornerstone of democracy rests on the foundation of an educated electorate.

The common vice of democracy is disregard for morality.

Propaganda is to a democracy what violence is to a dictatorship.

In politics, an organized minority is a political majority.

The ballot is stronger than the bullet.

The ignorance of one voter in a democracy impairs the security of all.

People often say that, in a democracy, decisions are made by a majority of the people. Of course, that is not true. Decisions are made by a majority of those who make themselves heard and who vote - a very different thing.

Democracy cannot succeed unless those who express their choice are prepared to choose wisely. The real safeguard of democracy, therefore, is education.

The government, which was designed for the people, has got into the hands of the bosses and their employers, the special interests. An invisible empire has been set up above the forms of democracy.

If one meets a powerful person--Adolf Hitler, Joe Stalin or Bill Gates--ask them five questions: "What power have you got? Where did you get it from? In whose interests do you exercise it? To whom are you accountable? And how can we get rid of you?

Remember, democracy never lasts long. It soon wastes, exhausts, and murders itself. There never was a democracy yet that did not commit suicide.

In a democracy, the majority of the citizens is capable of exercising the most cruel oppressions upon the minority.

If pigs could vote, the man with the slop bucket would be elected swineherd every time, no matter how much slaughtering he did on the side.

The job of a citizen is to keep his mouth open.

Democracy without morality is impossible.

He who allows oppression shares the crime.

An imbalance between rich and poor is the oldest and most fatal ailment of all republics.

last adds STANDART BOTTOM BANNER

Send report.

• The author didn't say that
• There is a mistake in the text of this quote
• The quote belongs to another author
• Other error

Democracy quotes by:

• H. L. Mencken Journalist
• Abraham Lincoln 16th U.S. President
• James Madison 4th U.S. President
• Woodrow Wilson 28th U.S. President
• Mahatma Gandhi Civil rights leader
• Noam Chomsky Linguist
• Franklin D. Roosevelt 32nd U.S. President
• Aristotle Philosopher
• Alexis de Tocqueville Historian
• Winston Churchill Former Prime Minister of the United Kingdom
• Gilbert K. Chesterton Writer
• Thomas Jefferson 3rd U.S. President
• John F. Kennedy 35th U.S. President
• Edmund Burke Statesman
• Plato Philosopher
• George Bernard Shaw Playwright
• Ronald Reagan 40th U.S. President
• John Dewey Philosopher
• Gore Vidal Writer
• Louis D. Brandeis Former Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States

Top Authors

Get Social with AzQuotes

Follow AzQuotes on Facebook, Twitter and Google+. Every day we present the best quotes! Improve yourself, find your inspiration, share with friends

SIDE STANDART BANNER

• Javascript and RSS feeds
• WordPress plugin
• ES Version AZQuotes.ES
• Submit Quotes
• Privacy Policy

Login with your account

Create account, find your account.

Essay on Democracy with Outline and Quotations

Essay on democracy for matric, intermediate and graduation | merits and demerits.

In this essay on democracy , we will discuss the advantages and disadvantages of democracy in any country. We will try to find out that, is Democracy is the best form of Government? Democracy Essay is also very important for the Examinations of 10th class, 2nd Year and Graduation Annual Exams. Here you will find 2 examples of Essay For more English Essays you can go here .

Essay on Democracy Vs Dictatorship with Quotations and Outline

• A successful and popular form of government.
• A mechanism of choosing the representatives by voting.
• A change in government is brought about by peaceful methods.
• The guardian of fundamental rights.
• Causes of the weak democratic system.
• Dictatorship is the rule of one man.
• Conclusion.

Democracy is a successful popular form of government in modern times. It is a modern type of government where the “Public Will” is expressed. The dictum, “ Some are born to rule and others to obey.” is rejected. Abraham Lincoln once defined democracy as:

 “Government of the people, by the people, for the people,  shall not perish from the Earth.”

Democracy is a mechanism through which people choose their representatives by voting their political parties in a democratic country. The party which wins by the majority of the opposition in the “Legislative Assembly. In the assembly, important, issues are put up, discussed and decided by voting.

In a democratic system, people elect their own rulers. If they do not serve them well for one term, they will not be elected again. The ministers are responsible for the legislature and as soon as they lose trust, they are made to resign. Thus, a change in government is brought about by peaceful methods.

“The voice of the people is the voice of God”

In a civil society, democracy is the guardian of equality, liberty and the fundamental tighs of the people. It makes all the citizens interested in national affairs by giving them a feeling of participation and a sense of responsibility. Everyone enjoys freedom of thought, action and speech. The four pillars of democracy are the rule of law, freedom of opinion, freedom of association and freedom of the press. Bernard Shaw has defined democracy as:

“A social order aiming at the greatest available welfare of the whole  population and not for a class.”

Unfortunately, democracy could not flourish in Pakistan because of political immaturity, economic insecurity and institutional instability. Sectarianism, illiteracy a caste system have deteriorated our social and political system. At the time of elections, the voters are either bribed or threatened to give their votes in favour of illegible and irresponsible candidates. Power is abused for the promotion of selfish ends. Corruption and favouritism are rampant. In this way, the lawmakers become law-breakers. Moreover, the continual military interventions also destabilize the democratic system of the country.

                        “The cure for the evils of democracy is more democracy.”

Dictatorship is the rule of one man who exercises absolute power. The dictators usually belong to well-organised political parties or the security forces of the country. They come to rescue the people but make them more miserable than before. In a dictatorship, the fundamental rights of civil society are suspended. Criticism is silenced and the opposition is ruthlessly suppressed. In this way, it creates frustration suffocation in society.

In spite of its demerits, democracy is a reasonable, useful and successful system of government. It is based on consent and not force, persuasion and not dictation. On the other hand, in spite of a few merits dictatorship is a curse to humanity.

                        “Democracy isn’t perfect, I just  don’t know a better system.” (Winston Churchill)

2. Advantages and Disadvantages of Democracy Essay for Class 10, 2nd Year and Graduation

Democracy may be defined in the words of Abraham Lincoln:

“Government of the people, for the people and by the people.”

Thus democracy is a public kind of government. All classes of people from a layman to a lord take part in democracy. That is why this form of government is widely liked by nations all over the world. It is the most favourite form of government of this age. Many people like democracy for its favourable features. They are as follows.

Advantages of Democracy

Democracy impedes the way of cruel rulers. As people themselves elect their rulers, they do not vote for stern savages. They try to elect those people who are polite and cultured. Then these kind rulers ever try to solve the problems of their voters. They work for the welfare of the state.

Democracy prevents wars. War is a necessary evil. But in this age of nuclear weapons, a war would mean a wholesale killing of humans. Democratic rulers do not take the risk of wars. Rather they try to resolve their disputes through diplomatic dialogues. Thus democracy indirectly prevents wars.

Democracy brings about the prosperity of the state. The elected members of the ruling class know that they have come to the throne by the votes of the masses. Therefore, they try to satisfy their voters otherwise they know that people would not cast their votes in favour of them in the next election.

Democracy tends to foster human development. It works for the better health of the masses. It generates opportunities for education. It tries to enhance human facilities. It tries to promote better living conditions.

Democracy promotes political culture and democratic values. People know the power of their votes. They participate effectively in the political process. They make their views about the political policies of various political parties. They have got full right to accept or reject policy. Thus the democratic process is decided by the people and not by the political organizations.

Democracy safeguards the fundamental interest of people. It helps people to exercise their legal and political rights. It creates a sense of pride in the masses that they are living under the laws of their own choice. Thus, people become law-abiding. Democracy also creates an environment of political equality. All citizens enjoy equal rights and privileges.

Disadvantages of Democracy

Being popular is no guarantee for a thing to be asserted as good. So, we cannot say that democracy is the only form of good government. It has advantages as well as disadvantages. Some of the disadvantages of democracy are discussed below.

Democracy brings about inequalities in economic and social resources. People with greater resources naturally win the election and come to power. They influence the political system and the economic policies of the state to their advantage. Thus they hinder a satisfactory level of political equality. They try to oblige the workers of their political party. Thus democracy causes inequality and injustice.

Democracy is also dangerous when the majority of corrupt and dishonest people come into power. They misuse their powers and authority. They have won the election by the dint of their social status and wealth. Thus their first preference is to earn money many times greater than the money they have spent during the election.

If we analyze democracy from the point of view of our country, we come to know that it has never been successful in our country. The main reasons are lack of education, the lack of political sense and interruption from non-political elements. No government has ever been given a chance to run its affairs smoothly. But in spite of all this, if our political leaders pay some heed to the golden rules of Islamic democracy, they would be successful rulers indeed.

In this Essay, we discussed everything about the Advantages and Disadvantages of democracy . Furthermore, Essay on democracy is very important if you are preparing selective and choosey essays for 2nd year and graduation. You can also try Mobile Phone Essay .

• More In English Essays

Essay Writing 101: The Basics That Every Writer Should Know

Students and Social Service Essay with Quotations

Load Shedding in Pakistan Essay – 1200 Words

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

• Privacy Policty
• Terms of Service
• Advertise with Us

Democracy of Pakistan (English Essay With Outlines in 1200 Words)

English Essay on Democracy of Pakistan For College Students Democracy of Pakistan has suffered through several setbacks and challenges, but recent developments in the country have sparked a sense of optimism for change in the future.

Pakistan is a vibrant and resilient country. Democracy, despite its many flaws, has brought a lot of changes to the society and it is the only option for Pakistan. There are many positive changes being brought by democracy but one of the most significant problems is the lack of political awareness.

Pakistan is one of the largest Muslim countries in the world, but has recently faced serious internal issues and political instability. This essay explores the history of democracy in Pakistan and the challenges it faces.

Table of Contents

What is Democracy?

Democracy is the political system in which the people have the power to choose their own leaders.

Types of Democracy

Democracy is a system of government in which the people are sovereign, that is to say they have the power to rule. It is usually assumed that all modern democracies are liberal democracies. This is true in the sense that most democracies claim to be liberal and many are in fact liberal in their practice. However, there are a number of different types of democracy. Some of these are more liberal than others, and some are more authoritarian than others.

Pros & Cons of Democracy

There are many pros and cons to democracy. On the positive side, it allows for a high degree of public participation in government, which can lead to better policy decisions. Additionally, democracies often have low levels of corruption, because elected officials are held accountable by their constituents.

However, democracies also have their fair share of problems. For example, they can be more volatile and prone to political instability than other types of governments. And while they may offer citizens a greater level of freedom and civil rights than some other systems, they can also be less efficient in delivering these benefits.

Democracy Vs Dictatorship

Democracy is a system of government where citizens have the power to make decisions about their own lives. This system is based on the principle that all people have the right to participate in the political process and have their voices heard.

Dictatorship is a system of government in which one person or group has total control over all aspects of society. This system is based on the principle that one person or group can be trusted to protect the interests of the population and make wise decisions for them.

Democracy of Pakistan

The current form of democracy in Pakistan is a parliamentary democracy. The Parliament is bicameral and consists of the Senate and the National Assembly. The Senate is made up of 100 members, who are elected for six-year terms.

The Prime Minister is the head of government and is appointed by the National Assembly. The Cabinet is the executive branch of the government and is responsible for the day-to-day running of the country. The judiciary is independent and consists of the Supreme Court, High Courts, and District Courts.  The head of the executive branch is the President.

According to the theory, democracy in Pakistan consists of three layers of government: federal, provincial and local. The central layer is represented by the federal government, while the provincial governments are the regional counterparts. The local governments are the last layer, and represent the community or the people.

Challenges For Democracy in Pakistan

Democracy of Pakistan in facing following challenges;

1. How can the government protect the rights of its citizens and ensure that they are able to express their views freely?

2. How can the government ensure that all eligible citizens can participate in the political process and have their voices heard?

The government can try to ensure that all eligible citizens can participate in the political process by providing information about the relevant candidates and the voting process. Additionally, the government can try to create a conducive environment in which citizens can freely express their views.

History of Democracy of Pakistan

Pakistan is one of the most diverse countries in the world, with a population that spans all social and economic strata. The country’s complex history has led to a variety of political systems and ideologies. Democracy has been an official policy of the government since 1973, but prior to that, various forms of government had operated in Pakistan. The first democratic system was established during the British Raj, when elected representatives from each province convened a legislative assembly to draft a constitution. However, this assembly was dissolved by the British authorities just four years after its establishment. The second attempt at establishing democracy took place following independence in 1947. However, due to disagreements between Prime Ministers and Presidents, democracy was not fully established until 1973. Since then, successive governments have enacted various constitutional amendments to expand the rights of citizens and form a more democratic system. Pakistan has a long and tumultuous history of democracy. The first democratic elections in the country were held in 1979. However, the country has had a number of periods of military rule, which have been followed by periods of democracy.

Future of Democracy in Pakistan

Pakistani democracy is in a state of flux. The country has been through multiple transitions, including from military dictatorship to parliamentary democracy and then to an elected civilian government in 2008. However, the country faces several challenges that could undermine its future as a democracy.

The most pressing issue facing Pakistani democracy is the lack of trust in institutions. According to a 2018 poll by the Pew Research Center, only 22 percent of Pakistanis say they have a great deal or fair amount of trust in the government to do what is right, down from 53 percent in 2006. This dwindling trust is likely due to years of instability and corruption – both within institutions and among politicians – which has led to disillusionment among citizens. To make matters worse, this lack of faith has created an environment where extremist groups can thrive.

Despite these challenges, Pakistani democracy is still in relatively good shape overall. The current government – which was elected in 2018 after years of political instability and corruption – is considered to be relatively stable, and there have been no major crises or violence linked to the democratic process so far. In addition, the country’s judiciary is considered to be independent and effective, which helps to ensure that the rule of law is upheld.

Key Features of Democracy of Pakistan

1. The Constitution of Pakistan was adopted in 1956.

2. Pakistan is a federal parliamentary republic.

3. The Head of State is the President, who is elected by the Parliament for a five-year term.

4. The Supreme Court is the highest judicial body in Pakistan.

5. There are three branches of government: the executive, the legislative, and the judicial.

Final Thoughts on Democracy in Pakistan

In short although Pakistan is a democratic country, still democracy is in cradle here in Pakistan. Now a days there is a controlled democracy in Pakistan. Deep state is very strong in Pakistan. Concept of hybrid democracy, basic democracy, and non parties democracy were introduced in Pakistan. Creation of Pakistan was a result of democratic process, but as a nation we could never defend democracy of Pakistan . There is need of strengthening the democracy in Pakistan.

My Aim in Life

I am a professional content writer and have experience of 10 years. I also launched first ever English monthly magazine of human rights in Pakistan. Majority of content on this website is written by me.

Democracy Essay

Democracy is derived from the Greek word demos or people. It is defined as a government in which the supreme power is vested in the people. Democracy is exercised directly by the people; in large societies, it is by the people through their elected agents. In the phrase of President Abraham Lincoln, democracy is the “Government of the people, by the people, and for the people.” There are various democratic countries, but India has the largest democracy in the world. This Democracy Essay will help you know all about India’s democracy. Students can also get a list of CBSE Essays on different topics to boost their essay-writing skills.

500+ Words Democracy Essay

India is a very large country full of diversities – linguistically, culturally and religiously. At the time of independence, it was economically underdeveloped. There were enormous regional disparities, widespread poverty, illiteracy, unemployment, and a shortage of almost all public welfare means. Since independence, India has been functioning as a responsible democracy. The same has been appreciated by the international community. It has successfully adapted to challenging situations. There have been free and fair periodic elections for all political offices, from the panchayats to the President. There has been a smooth transfer of political power from one political party or set of political parties to others, both at national and state levels, on many occasions.

India: A Democratic Country

Democracy is of two, i.e. direct and representative. In a direct democracy, all citizens, without the intermediary of elected or appointed officials, can participate in making public decisions. Such a system is only practical with relatively small numbers of people in a community organisation or tribal council. Whereas in representative democracy, every citizen has the right to vote for their representative. People elect their representatives to all levels, from Panchayats, Municipal Boards, State Assemblies and Parliament. In India, we have a representative democracy.

Democracy is a form of government in which rulers elected by the people take all the major decisions. Elections offer a choice and fair opportunity to the people to change the current rulers. This choice and opportunity are available to all people on an equal basis. The exercise of this choice leads to a government limited by basic rules of the constitution and citizens’ rights.

Democracy is the Best Form of Government

A democratic government is a better government because it is a more accountable form of government. Democracy provides a method to deal with differences and conflicts. Thus, democracy improves the quality of decision-making. The advantage of a democracy is that mistakes cannot be hidden for long. There is a space for public discussion, and there is room for correction. Either the rulers have to change their decisions, or the rulers can be changed. Democracy offers better chances of a good decision. It respects people’s own wishes and allows different kinds of people to live together. Even when it fails to do some of these things, it allows a way of correcting its mistakes and offers more dignity to all citizens. That is why democracy is considered the best form of government.

Students must have found this “Democracy Essay” useful for improving their essay writing skills. They can get the study material and the latest update on CBSE/ICSE/State Board/Competitive Exams, at BYJU’S.

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Your Mobile number and Email id will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Request OTP on Voice Call

Post My Comment

Register with BYJU'S & Download Free PDFs

Register with byju's & watch live videos.

Top 25 Quotations for Democracy Essay

• January 26, 2024

Kainat Shakeel

Democracy, a term echoing through the corridors of history, signifies a system where power lies in the hands of the people. From its ancient roots to the complications of the ultramodern period, democracy has been a vital force in shaping societies. In this essay, we claw into the multifaceted aspects of democracy, exploring its principles, challenges, global impact, and its elaboration over time. .

Evolution of Democracy

Democracy’s roots trace back to ancient societies, with notable cases in Athens during the 5th century BC. The Renaissance and Enlightenment ages further fueled the popular spirit, laying the roots for ultramodern popular movements. 

Types of Democracy

Democracy manifests in colorful forms, from direct democracy where citizens make opinions inclusively to representative democracy where tagged representatives act on behalf of the people. mongrel models blend the rudiments of both systems, showcasing the democracy’s rigidity. 

Quotes on Democracy

• ” Democracy isn’t just a political system, but a way of life that values and respects the quality of every existent.”- Jimmy Carter
• ” Democracy is the government of the people, by the people, for the people.”- Abraham Lincoln
• ” Democracy is the art and wisdom of running the circus from the monkey pen.”-H.L. Mencken
• ” Democracy isn’t an onlooker sport, it’s a participatory event. However, it ceases to be a democracy, If we do not share in it.”- Michael Moore
• ” Democracy isn’t simply a political system; it’s a culture, a way of life, and a commitment to mortal rights and abecedarian freedoms.”- Kofi Annan
• ” Democracy isn’t just a process, but a way of life that empowers individualities and communities to share in the opinions that shape their fortune.”- Helen Clark
• ” Democracy is the road to illiberalism.”- Karl Marx
• ” Democracy isn’t about making speeches. It’s about making panels work.”- Georges Clemenceau
• ” Democracy isn’t just a political system, but a social contract that binds us together as a community, esteeming the rights and freedoms of all.”- Vaclav Havel
• ” Democracy is the art of allowing singly together.”- Alexander Meiklejohn
• ” Democracy is a process by which the people are free to choose the man who’ll get the blame.”- LaurenceJ. Peter
• ” Democracy is the only system that can truly reflect the will of the people, handed they’re well-informed and laboriously engaged in the process.”- Tom Gjelten
• ” Democracy isn’t a state, it’s an act.”- John Dewey
• ” Democracy is a system where people are counted, not counted.”- Jesse Jackson
• ” Democracy isn’t just a political system; it’s a way of life that requires active participation and a commitment to justice and equivalency.”- Ellen Johnson Sirleaf
• ” Democracy is the only system that ensures the rights and freedoms of individualities while promoting the common good.”- Tony Blair
• ” Democracy is the government of reason, by discussion, and of concession.”- Mary Parker Follett
• ” Democracy is the palm of equivalency over honor.”- Charles de Montesquieu
• ” Democracy is a system where the people can choose their leaders, and leaders are responsible to the people.”- Bill Clinton
• ” Democracy is the commission of the people to hold their leaders responsible and shape their fortune.”- Tony Benn
• ” Democracy is a trip, not a destination. It requires constant engagement and alert from the citizens.”- Jimmy Panetta
• ” Democracy is the foundation of a just society, where every voice is heard, and every existent is valued.”- Ban Ki-moon
• ” Democracy is a process of tone- government that requires active participation, informed citizens, and a commitment to justice and equivalency.”- Paul Wellstone
• ” Democracy isn’t just a system of government; it’s a way of life that values freedom, equivalency, and the quality of every existent.”- Joe Biden

Challenges Faced by Democracy

Despite its graces, democracy faces challenges like the corrosion of popular institutions, the rise of populism, and namer apathy. These hurdles punctuate the constant need for watchful citizens and robust institutions.  In conclusion, democracy stands as a lamp of governance, empowering citizens and fostering societal progress. The trip through democracy’s historical elaboration, principles, challenges, and global perspectives underscores its significance. As active actors in this popular trial, citizens play a vital part in shaping the future of their nations.

Kainat Shakeel is a versatile SEO-Content Writer and Digital Marketer with a keen understanding of tech news, digital market trends, fashion, technology, laws, and regulations. As a storyteller in the digital realm, she weaves narratives that bridge the gap between technology and human experiences. With a passion for staying at the forefront of industry trends, her blog is a curated space where the worlds of fashion, tech, and legal landscapes converge.

Essay on Election and Democracy for Students and Children

500 words essay on election and democracy.

A democratic government is said to be the best kind of government. It ensures the active participation of the people where the citizens get the chance to choose their government. The candidate or party whom the people choose is through elections.

Therefore, we see how elections play a pivotal role in a democracy. The party which secures the highest number of votes in the election process forms the government for the next term. That is why we see how elections are greatly crucial for a democracy.

Election Process in a Democracy

The election process in a democracy is usually similar in most ways. It is responsible for shaping the government of a democracy. Elections are conducted at regular intervals. In a democracy like India, they take place every five years. A committee is set to monitor the whole electoral procedure from the voters’ list to the results.

During the election process, various parties enroll themselves to contest in the elections. After thorough campaigning and more, dates are decided on which voting happens. People turn up in great numbers to cast their votes to make their candidate or party win.

Most importantly, in a democracy, the election process follows the method of a secret ballot. It is very beneficial for maintaining the fairness of the contest. Moreover, they also protect the privacy and safety of the voter as they are not liable to answer to anyone regarding their vote. It is one of the fairest ways to decide who wins the election.

Get the huge list of more than 500 Essay Topics and Ideas

Importance of Election in Democracy

The election procedure just shows how important and crucial it is for a democracy. The process is very grand and takes place on a great level. As it requires a lot of work and attention, there are certain people who specifically get the responsibility of handling and managing the entire process.

Elections form the basis of democracy. They are very important as they help the people in getting a chance to contest the elections. It allows people to get a fair chance to work for their country and make a brighter future. Moreover, it also ensures that any person can become a part of the government without any discrimination on the basis of caste, creed, sex, religion or more.

Most importantly, elections entrust a big responsibility on the shoulders of the citizens. It helps in empowering the citizens of a democracy. You see that when a person earns the right to vote, they choose their government responsibly as they realize the power that lies within their hands.

Above all, the election process ensures fair play. They are a great way of preventing dishonest people from rigging the procedure. In short, fair and regular elections are a vital part of a democratic government. Similarly, they empower the common citizens of the nation to elect their government and also change it after a period of time to ensure everyone works for the best in the country.

FAQs on Election and Democracy

Q.1 What is the election process in a democracy?

A.1 The election process takes place at a regular period of time. People cast their vote to whomever they think id serving of being in power. Thus, the party with the majority of votes wins and serves the term.

Q.2 Why are elections important in a democracy?

A.2 Elections form the basis of any democracy. It ensures that the power resides within the people. It also ensures fair play and stops any unfair means from taking place. They are important to strengthen the essence of democracy.

Customize your course in 30 seconds

Which class are you in.

• Travelling Essay
• Picnic Essay
• Our Country Essay
• My Parents Essay
• Essay on Favourite Personality
• Essay on Memorable Day of My Life
• Essay on Knowledge is Power
• Essay on Gurpurab
• Essay on My Favourite Season
• Essay on Types of Sports

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Download the App

Essay on “Democracy in Pakistan” for CSS, and PMS

• January 24, 2022
• Essay for CSS PMS and Judiciary Exam

This is an Essay on “Democracy in Pakistan” for CSS, PMS, and Judiciary Examinations. Democracy is a form of government in which the people have the authority to deliberate and decide legislation, or to choose governing officials to do so.” Democracy is a system of government in which power is vested in the people and exercised by them directly or through freely elected representatives. As Democracy is a very popular topic so, here is a complete Essay on “Democracy in Pakistan” for CSS, PMS, and judiciary examinations.

What is democracy? Essentials of democracy Democracy in Pakistan

A brief history

• The early period from 1947-58
• Period of General Ayub and General Zia
• Political turmoil and General Pervaiz Musharraf

Causes of failure of democracy in Pakistan

• Delayed Framing of the Constitution
• Leadership Crisis
• Lack of education
• No independence of the judiciary
• Weak political parties and their infighting
• Delayed elections and rigging
• Corruption and nepotism
• Quasi-Federalism and Conflict between Eastern and Western Wings
• Terrorism and extremism

Pakistani Democracy Vs. Western Democracy

Suggestions

• Effective accountability of the politicians
•  Reforming judiciary
• Abolish feudalism
• Eliminate corruption
• Two parties system on the pattern of the USA, UK
• Amendment in the constitution
• Fair and free election
• Increase the education budget to educate people
• Uninterrupted democratic process
• Strengthening the institutions

Essay on “Democracy in Pakistan” for CSS, PMS, and Judiciary Examinations

“You have to stand guard over the development and maintenance of Islamic democracy, Islamic social justice, and the equality of manhood in your own native soil.” -Muhammad Ali Jinnah,

To acquire immunity to eloquence is of the utmost importance to the citizens of a democracy. – Bertrand Russell

Democracy is a form of government in which all citizens have an equal say in the decisions that affect their lives. Ideally, this includes equal (and more or less direct) participation in the proposal, development, and passage of legislation into law. It can also encompass social, economic, and cultural conditions that enable the free and equal practice of political self-determination. While there is no specific, universally accepted definition of ‘democracy’, equality and freedom have both been identified as important characteristics of democracy since ancient times. These principles are reflected in all citizens being equal before the law and having equal access to legislative processes.

For example, in a representative democracy, every vote has equal weight, no unreasonable restrictions can apply to anyone seeking to become a representative, and the freedom of its citizens is secured by legitimized rights and liberties which are generally protected by a constitution.

Many people use the term “democracy” as shorthand for liberal democracy, which may include elements such as political pluralism; equality before the Jaw; the right to petition elected officials for redress of grievances; due process; civil liberties; human rights ; and elements of civil society outside the government. In the United States, separation of powers is often cited as a central attribute, but in other countries, such as the United Kingdom, the dominant principle is that of parliamentary sovereignty (though in practice judicial independence is generally maintained).

In other cases, “democracy” is used to mean direct democracy. Though the term “democracy” is typically used in the context of a political state, the principles are applicable to private organizations and other groups as well.

Democracy in Pakistan

Democracy in its true spirit has never been allowed to take root in Pakistan. Since its independence in 1947, a military-bureaucratic establishment has always governed the country. Army generals usurp power at their own convenience and quit only when they are forced to quit by mass political movements or by sudden unexpected death. When forced by external or internal pressures, democracy is given a chance but in reality, a group of army generals keeps controlling the decision-making.

This direct or indirect military influence is the greatest impediment to the evolution of a stable governing system in Pakistan. Besides, the army is not solely responsible for this mass but it is our inefficient politicians who provide an opportunity for to army to take over.

A brief history of Democracy in Pakistan

Recalling the last 62 years of Pakistan, democracy is found only as an interval before the next military general comes to the scene. The future of democracy was doomed from the start when Liaquat Ali Khan, the first elected Prime Minister, was shot at a public gathering. Nobody knows to this day who did it and why. From now on, the balance of power was to shift in the favor of the military. A comparison tells us how this shift came up. From 1951-57 India had one Prime Minister and several army chiefs while during the same period Pakistan had one army chief and several Prime ministers.

The same army chief, the Sandhurst-trained general, Ayub Khan was to announce the first martial law in the country in 1958 and then a series of military rules were to follow.

General Ayub Khan could not withstand a popular national movement against him and transferred power to General Yahya Khan in March 1969. Under him, Pakistan lost its half which is now Bangladesh. Power was then transferred to Zulfikar Ali Bhutto as the first civilian martial law administrator. Bhutto pursued an independent policy, which was against what generals and the US wanted, and he had to pay with his life.

Charged for compliance in murder, Bhutto was hanged by the next martial law administrator, General Zia ul Haq. The hanging of an elected Prime Minister was shocking news to the world and Pakistan was to have the effects years later. The general died in a mysterious plane crash.

Then came a ten years gap of experimentation with democracy and every two years each elected government was ousted by the special discretionary powers of the president . An end to this ten-year spell came with a new general coming to power ousting the incumbent elected government of Mian Nawaz Sharif. This time the Prime Minister was charged with conspiring against the state and was ousted from the country.

The immediate and foremost requirement of the Constituent Assembly was to frame a democratic constitution for the country. The constitution had to lay down the form of government, and the role of the judiciary, military, and bureaucracy. It had to decide the basic issues about provincial autonomy, religion and the state, the joint or separate electorate, representation of minorities and women in assemblies, fundamental rights, and civil liberties.

The debate over the representation of eastern and western wings of the country and religion versus secularism were the two main hindrances in the way of framing the constitution. As against India, which was able to frame the constitution of the country within two years of independence in 1949, Pakistan took nine years to finalize the constitution in 1956, which did not work for more than two years and was abrogated.

The second constitution was framed by a military ruler General Ayub in 1962 which could last as long as he was in power. Finally, it was after the separation of East Pakistan and a lapse of more than a quarter of a century (1947-1973) that the elected representatives of the people under the leadership of Prime Minister Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto framed a consensus constitution envisaging a  federal, democratic structure for the country and a parliamentary form of government.

This constitution has survived in spite of the breakdown of democracy twice in 1978 and 1999 and hopefully has come to stay. But the delay in framing the constitution harmed the growth of political democracy, as it allowed the authoritarian rule of the Governor-General to continue for seven long years (1947-56), which set this inglorious tradition in the country.

The second obstacle in the way of democracy is the culture of feudalism. Democracy cannot develop in the suffocating atmosphere of feudalism. The history of feudalism in the subcontinent is not very old. It owes its origin to the war of independence in 1857 when different people were awarded large swathes of land by the British government because of their treacherous cooperation with the latter. Those feudal families joined Muslim League when they saw that Pakistan was going to be a reality and inherited power after the death of the founding father. Feudalism has now become a severe migraine for the nation. Democracy and feudalism are incompatible.

Change of faces at the wheel has not served any purpose. Even these feudal lords occupy more than 70 % of our land leaving the people to lead a miserable life. They are senators, ministers, MPAs, MNAs, and also the owners of major industries in Pakistan. There is a crying need to bring some structural changes in order to strengthen the political system. Industrialization has also played a significant role in the strengthening of democracy across the world. Great Britain is considered the mother of democracies on this planet.

Some analysts are of the view that democracy has its origin in the Magna Carta, Bill of Rights and Habeas Corpus, etc. But even after these developments very mighty rulers have ruled Great Britain. In fact, the invention of the steam engine led to the industrial revolution which eradicated the roots of feudalism and the evil of absolute monarchy. All this resulted in the development of democracy. In Pakistan, there is everything from adult franchises to the separation of powers between the three organs of government but no plan for that kind of industrial revolution.

Quaid-i-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, the father of the nation and the first Governor-General, died just one year after the establishment of Pakistan on September 11, 1948, and his right-hand lieutenant Liaquat Ali Khan, who was the first Prime Minister, was assassinated on October 16, 1951. About the capability of other leaders of the Pakistan Muslim League (PML), the party which had successfully piloted the movement for Pakistan, Jinnah had ruefully remarked that “he had false coins in his pocket”.

Consequently, several ministers appointed initially were not politicians and did not have a seat in the Assembly. Similarly, in 1954, there were several members of the Prime Minister’s cabinet without a seat in Parliament. “The cabinet and other high political appointments reflected a paucity of talent among the politicians.”

It is indeed a sad commentary on the elected members of the first Legislature and Constituent Assembly of Pakistan that they could not find a suitable head of state from among their own ranks. Most of them came from the civil bureaucracy or the military. The civil-military bureaucracy did not have a favorable opinion about the competence of political leaders and often took decisions without consulting them. This adversely affected their political training, development, and growth.

The inability to control the Anti-Ahmadiya Movement in Punjab in 1953 was blamed on inept political leadership. This religious movement was spearheaded by the religious Ahrar Party which had opposed the establishment of Pakistan and now wanted again to come into the limelight. They were supported by other religious parties, i.e., Jamaat-i-Islami, JamiatuiUlema-i-Pakistan, and JamiatulUlerna-i-Islam. The movement was exploited by politicians in their own political interests.

But the civil-military bureaucracy was against the religious parties dominating the power structure either in the provinces or the center. To rescue the city of Lahore where Ahmadis were in a “virtual state of siege” and their properties were being “burned or looted”, General Azam Khan, the Area Commander, was ordered by the Defense Secretary, to impose martial law in Lahore. It was met with the general approval of the people.

It was demonstrated that the civil-military bureaucracy “would not let politicians or religious ideologues lead the country to anarchy”. This also laid down the foundations of the supremacy of the military and orchestrated the initial rehearsal for the recurring imposition of Martial Law in the country and its acceptance by the people.

Lack of education has remained an important impediment to the democratization of countries. This is not just a problem for Pakistan but of the whole Third world. Laski, a famous political thinker said that education is the backbone of democracy. Democracy is a system of governance in which the people choose their representatives through elections. Their strength lies in the ballot box. If people are not vigilant and educated enough to make a better choice, democracy will not flourish in that country.

This is the main reason that even in the countries apparently practicing democracy but the majority of uneducated people are among the under-developed nations. Masses in Pakistan have not found ways of compelling their rulers to be mindful of their duty. Their failures in this regard result from insufficiency of experience and training in operating modem democratic politics. Democracy puts the highest premium on constitutionalism, which is possible only with the predominant majority of people. Pakistan’s democracy can neither improve nor become viable as long as the majority of the population remains uneducated.

Judiciary is one of the most important pillars of a state and in a country where the judiciary is not imparting justice , democracy cannot develop. During the Second World War, someone asked British Prime Minister Winston Churchill whether the British would win the war. The Prime Minister laughed and replied that if the British courts were dispensing justice, no one would trounce the United Kingdom. In Pakistan since 1954 judiciary has remained docile to the wishes of the executive. As Shelley says, “If the winter comes; can spring be far behind”.

In fact, since its birth, Pakistan has been governed by bureaucratic, military, and political elites. The bureaucratic elite generally became more assertive, steadily increasing their power at the expense of the political elite. Ayub’s term of office (1958-69) was the golden era for the bureaucracy, which exercised its powers, unbridled by any political interference. The weakness of political elites can be demonstrated by the fact that during seven years from 1951 to 1958, as many as seven Prime Ministers had been changed.

From 1988 to 1999, four democratically elected governments were replaced on charges of corruption, inefficiency, security risk, etc. The civil-military bureaucracy has dominated governance owing to the inherent weakness of the political parties and their incompetent leadership, resulting in the derailment of democracy thrice in the history of Pakistan, i.e., in 1958, 1977, and 1999.

Pakistan was not created as a theocracy but as a place where an economically marginalized minority could operate a democracy independently. It was to save the people from religious discrimination and domination by an overwhelming religious majority. Moreover, it emerged as a territorial state in the Muslim majority areas of the subcontinent. But the religious and secular groups soon started making conflicting demands while formulating the constitution of Pakistan.

The speech of Mr. Jinnah on August 11, 1947, addressed to the first legislative and constituent assembly of Pakistan, advocated political pluralism and declared that the “religion or caste or creed has nothing to do with the business of the State”. This has not adhered to the Objectives Resolution passed by the Constituent Assembly in 1949, which pacified the demands of Muslim religious parties and elements but was not supported by religious minorities.

The compromise solution attempted to balance the values and the spirit of Islam with the requirements of secularism. Due to a lack of competent and visionary political leadership , and the fact that Muslims constituted 98 percent of the population, the conservative religious leaders, partly due to their conviction and partly owing to their parochial interests, advocated and preached the establishment of a religiopolitical system based on Al-Quran and Sunnah.

They were skeptical of the politico-social development of modem times and western political institutions and forms of government. Their dogmatic theology clashed with the democratic culture envisioned by the founding fathers. Another adverse impact of the adoption of religion as a guiding principle in the constitution, was the promotion of religious sectarianism, especially between the two major sects inhabiting Pakistan, i.e., Sunnis and Shi’as. Some sections of these sects, instead of peaceful negotiations to overcome their differences, often resort to violence, which is against the spirit of both Islam and democracy. These rivalries fostered reliance on the security forces for the maintenance of law and order, which eroded the hold of democratic institutions in governance.

For any healthy constitutional and political system to function smoothly, strong and well-entrenched political parties are essential. Unfortunately, political parties in Pakistan have failed to develop into strong vehicles of national political will. The main responsibility for safeguarding democracy in a country falls on political parties. Pakistan, since its inception, was lacking well-organized and well-established political parties that could carry the representative system of governance forward.

The All-India Muslim League, which had piloted the movement of Pakistan from 1940 to 47, was not a well-organized political party, but it was primarily a movement. Leading a movement and organizing a political party are two different things. Most of its leaders belonged to areas that became part of the Indian Union and their majority did not come to Pakistan. Those who were in Pakistan, barring a few exceptions, belonged to feudal and landowning classes that in their nature were in conflict with the democratic dispensation. In fact “the leadership of the Pakistan movement had few roots in the land that became Pakistan.”

Their incompetence and constant wrangling for power in the initial nine years (1947-1956) were also responsible for the delay in constitution-making. Instead of cooperation and mutual accommodation, there was ceaseless infighting. For instance, as early as 1953, a clash between the leadership of Punjab and the central government led to intense communal riots and the imposition of Martial Law in Lahore, the provincial capital. Even as late as the decade 1988-99 of civil supremacy, the fight between the PML and the PPP led to the repeated dissolution of national and provincial assemblies and the dismissal of prime ministers and their cabinets. Finally, it ended with the military takeover in 1999.

The representative character of the civilian parliamentary government during the first decade of Pakistan’s existence was eroded because the country was governed under the Government of India Act of 1935. The purpose of the Act was “to make the appointed governor-general exert dominance over the elected prime minister.” The Act introduced a representative and centralized system of bureaucratic governance, which was an imperative requirement of the colonial government but not of democratic governance. The first general elections in the country should have been held in 1951, i.e., five years after the previous elections in 1946, but this could not happen till 1970.

The reasons for the delay were that the ruling elite, i.e., civil bureaucrats, migrant political leadership, and weak political parties, had few roots in the masses. As a consequence, general elections could not be held for 23 years (1947-1970) of the country’s initial history. On the expiry of the five years term of Prime Minister Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto (1972-1977), the second general elections on the basis of the adult franchise were held on March 7, 1977, which the PPP won with a vast majority.

The opposition parties alleged that the elections had been “rigged on a massive scale”. It has been commented: Elections in Pakistan had been rigged before, notably the presidential election in 1965 and the Provincial Assembly,y elections in the early 1950s, but rigging in these instances did not arouse the mass uprising as it did in 1977. The people of Pakistan were evidently not of the same mind now as they were in those earlier periods.

Corruption in bureaucracy and among political leaders poses a grave threat to good democratic governance. Quaid-i-Azam had termed corruption as “poison” and asked to put that down with an “iron hand”. Now that the international Reconciliation Ordinance, .vnich had withdrawn from prosecution any person “falsely involved for political reasons or through political victimization” between 1986 and 1999, has lapsed on November 28, 2009, the concerned individuals should get themselves cleared in a court of law in a transparent manner. The tribal nature of society in Pakistan is susceptible to nepotism. As an antidote, accountability and transparency are necessary. It is a challenge to the people to reject those leaders and political parties which indulge in corruption and nepotism.

One of the main bottlenecks in constitutional development in Pakistan was that its two wings were separated by about 1000 miles of hostile territory. The eastern wing consisted of one province but was more populous’ than the western wing which was much larger in the area and had as many as four provinces.

The western wing was not prepared to concede majority representation to the eastern wing in the parliament. After a confrontation of nine years between the two wings, the solution was evolved in the l956 constitution in the shape of parity of representation in a quasi-federal structure, neutralizing the majority of the eastern wing and paving the way for the manipulated domination of the western wing.

The domination of the western wing in governance led to an insurgency in the eastern wing which culminated in the separation and independence of Bangladesh in 1971. In post-1971 Pakistan, it came to be realized that ideological moorings alone could not easily overcome ethnic and economic differences. Yet the anti-ethnic attitude and anti-modem thinking prevalent in certain segments of society lean toward a unitary or quasi-federal state as against a true federation.

The latest threat is emanating from extremism and terrorism, especially in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK) and the Federally Administered Tribal Area (FATA). This is the spillover effect of the conflict in Afghanistan and is spreading to Pakistan. It is likely to continue as long as there is no peace and stability in that country. However, the military enjoying the support of the nation is successfully combating the extremists and terrorists under the supremacy of the civilian democratic government. It is hoped that the process would continue to its logical conclusion.

Due to the migration of literate Hindus and Sikhs to India, the literacy rate in Pakistan sharply declined. There was about 95 percent illiteracy in Pakistan in 1947, which acted as a hindrance to the growth of civil and democratic society. Feudalism and economic constraint did not permit any Pakistani government to launch a “crash course to expand literacy and grow higher standards.

The national economy has gone bankrupt and the national budget has become all foreign aid-dependent. Islam was the ideology that gave life to the Pakistan movement and later Pakistan itself but is now infested with sectarianism. Military policies gifted the country with cross-border terrorism and three million internally displaced people. Despite having the largest chunk of the national budget and being the seventh-largest army in the world, the Pakistan army is now in a mess of its own creation with little of its hard-earned prestige left to its credit.

The distorted face of the national system as a whole and the failure of the judiciary to guard the constitution of Pakistan are the major factors contributing to the change in the national mindset. The events of the last two years have clearly shown the preference of the people of Pakistan. The masses want democracy as a political and governing system for the country and a judiciary that guard the rights of the people. The military would be respected more if it stays in the barracks or guarded the national borders. The murder of Benazir Bhutto has taught new lessons.

If one compares Pakistani democracy with Western democracy it is said that for over 50 years, Pakistan remains occupied by three major interest groups in the time, opportunities, and resources of the besieged nation. The army, civil service, and the neo-colonial appointed landlords. If there was any rational tolerance scale, the Pakistani nation would certainly secure high marks on its standard of tolerance and survival under most unfavorable circumstances.

One of the pivotal factors supporting the notion of Western liberal democracies is that it provides opportunities for participation to ordinary citizens, right or wrong to culminate a sense of legitimacy for the election exercise and chose people of their interest to manage public affairs for a specified term. But the principles and standards for evil and good vary between the West and the Islamic world . Strange as is, in Pakistan, those who come to occupy the political offices never intend to quit the political power on their own except implication of military force through a coup.

Comparatively, on occasions, western democracies do” encourage educated and competent citizens to strive for their high ideas and ideals and come to the front stage and demonstrate their intentions and will power to seek the goal of ideal public service agendas. E.H. Carr defines the teaching-learning role of history and its value must not be ignored but preserved. Recall the Pakistani military dictators for the last forty-plus years, they each consumed a decade or more to relinquish power, that was not theirs in any systematic and logical context. Ayub Khan was ousted by Yahya Khan.

General Yahya with the complacency of Z.A. Bhutto surrendered East Pakistan to India (now Bangladesh) to share power with Bhutto but was put under house arrest as Bhutto assumed the power that did not belong to him based on the verdict of the people. Rightfully, it was Sheikh MujiburRehman, leader of the East Pakistan Awami League who should have been sworn in as the new leader of united Pakistan but it was treacherously undone by Yahya and Bhutto.

Both should have been tried as traitors in a court of law and punished. Not so, they were rewarded and Bhutto became the first civilian martial law administrator and self-made president of defeated Pakistan in December 1971. Dr.Ishtiaq Qureshi, editor of the Urdu Digest recorded for the history (“Sukoot-e-Dacca seyPurdhautha Hay”- Facts are revealed after the Dacca Surrender) that “in the quest for its survival Pakistan lost its destiny. Yahya and Mujib stabbed the body of Pakistan with one dagger and Bhutto will stab Pakistan with another dagger.”

Suggestions for Democracy in Pakistan

Fo1lowing are the suggestions for improving democracy in Pakistan:

An impartial system of accountability enhances public trust in the political system. It provides enormous strength to the democratic process. Moreover, it compels thousand who are charged with governance, to transparently discharge their official responsibilities. It ensures good governance and strengthens the political setup. In spite of facing innumerable challenges and showing unsatisfactory performance, Pakistanis have the capability to emerge as a democratic and progressive nation. Pakistan can road to democracy with the dedication, determination, commitment, courage, and patriotism of its political leaders.

Reforming the judiciary and incorporating Islamic laws can also soothe the deprived and poor masses who have been manipulated by the extremists due to the sheer negligence of the elected governments and ruling elite. This natura11y causes bitterness toward the present form of political setup.

Moving on, corruption and selfish attitudes are eating away at the institutional structure of our country and such practices never allow democracy to flourish. There is also a need for mature political leadership, which can think above its own gains. All this can only emerge after the formulation and implementation of strict accountability.

On the contrary, weak public institutions can be made strong and productive if the power and authority seep down. The example of many European countries is in front of us, where institutions are powerful and not politicians. Democracy in actuality can only be achieved through such measures.

Our constitution has been a source of constant controversy. Be it the realization of Islamic laws or the concentration of power in the head of the state, the constitution has served as a tool for the legitimization of alien changes and policies. Keeping the constitution intact has been long overdue. No one in power should be allowed to change it for prolongation of rule or appeasing any particular section. The Pakistani movement envisaged a democratic country with a federal structure.

In all Constitutions of Pakistan (1956, 1962, and 1973) the objectives of governance, in the words of Dr. Ainslie T. Embree, Professor Emeritus of Columbia University, are democracy, freedom, equality, tolerance, and social justice as enunciated by Islam, giving Muslims freedom to live their lives in accordance with the teachings of Islam, but with minorities having full freedom to profess their own religions.

Islam lays emphasis on the concept of Shura, i.e., consultation among people, which is the essence of democratic culture. Quaid-i-Azam, the founder of Pakistan had stated:

“We leamed democracy 1300 years ago. Democracy is i11 our blood. It is ill our marrows. Dilly centuries of adverse circumstances have made the circulation of that blood cold. It has got frozen, and our arteries are not functioning. But thank God, the blood is circulating again, thanks to the Muslim League’s efforts. It will be a People’s government. Culturally, ill the region of Pakistan, there is a concept of Jirga or Panchayat, i.e., an assembly of elders, to settle issues and disputes involving two or more two persons. This system has, been prevalent for ages, much before the advent of Islam. Thus, both religion and age-old tradition advocate the concept of consultation in decision-making through all assembly of people, which is the essence of democracy.”

During the period of British supremacy in the subcontinent, the practice of elections to assemblies (local, provincial and central) was introduced through various enactments. Finally, it was the Government of India Act 1935 under which the dominions of India and Pakistan functioned after independence till they framed their own constitutions. These enactments provided the groundwork for democratic governance. It may be of interest to note that even when the democratic rule was suspended by the armed forces, the military rulers always came with the promise to restore democratic governance .

For instance, in 1970, General Yahya Khan is credited with organizing the first-ever general elections in the country, which led to the establishment of democratic governments both in Bangladesh and Pakistan. Besides holding general elections in 2002 and 2007, General Musharraf’s introduction of a local government system introduced in 2001 is considered a “laudable model of governance” because of its principle that whatever can be done at the local level should not be done at a higher tier of governance.

The country is on the path to achieving full literacy and progress towards a higher standard of education in important disciplines. This is strengthening the civil society in ensuring the prevalence of democratic culture at the lower and higher level of governance. Secondly, the print and electronic media in Pakistan are vibrant and independent. A responsible media educates the masses, raises political consciousness, and thus promotes democratic values, norms, and culture. In addition, a number of non-governmental organizations (NGOs) are playing an active role in the field of education and contributing to the growth of a vibrant civil society and good governance.

The essential step seems to stop interruption in the democratic process so that we may see more than promos. To judge something, it has to be allowed a chance to survive and act. The elected government must be allowed to complete its tenure in any case. The military has to play a positive role here and not interfere in the smooth democratic process.

As mentioned before, a part of the population wants greater Islamic character in the Govt. and laws. If we analyze this demand, it will be apparent that the enforcement of Sharia is more related to lawmaking. Therefore, what is immediately required is a change in the judicial setup, which has been unable to gain the trust of people until recently. Encouraging steps have already started in this case, but much more needs to be done.

Sadly, the same corrupted pool of thought keeps appearing with new faces and the deceived masses blindly follow them. This is due to the absence of any kind of accountability. Political compromises enhance this trend. Such practices are against moral, democratic as well as Islamic principles and should end immediately.

Next, the all-powerful bureaucracy and feudal politicians should be stripped of their unwarranted authority. It has been a slow evil that has weakened the country like nothing else. They are elected for serving people not to control them. The criteria of merit; the right to freedom and equal progress for common people have become a joke due to such an autocratic setup.

The people of Pakistan in general lack political psyche and consciousness. This is largely due to poor literacy and a never-ending feudalistic rule over 60% of the country. Therefore, it is necessary to educate the masses and make them aware of their political rights. This can begin with greater political socialization by political parties and media.

In a democratic state, media has rightly been called the fourth pillar of the state. It can play a most important role in the present age for creating awareness. Our media has risen from the ashes like a phoenix. It, however, needs to play a positive constructive role and not become another compromised institution as well.

Finally, the strategic position and now the war against terror call forth unwanted attention from the international community sometimes. In the past, military rule has been covertly or openly supported by many countries to gain their own benefits in this region. The international powers must stop interfering in the democratic process and for that to happen, our own government, people and media need to be equally strong.

Politicians may have learned lessons from their past mistakes and are more mature politically. Consensus politics seem to be emerging in the country. In the past, the constant infighting amongst political parties had often led to interference and take-over by the armed forces.

Now a culture of reconciliation, accommodation, and dialogue is emerging. The ideological polarization is diminishing. After the general elections of February 2008, four major political parties, i.e., Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), PML – Nawaz (PML-N), Awami National Party (ANP), Jamiat-ulUlema-i-Islam – Fazalur Rahman (JUI-Fl and MuttahidaQaumi Movement (MQM) have joined hands to govern the country and re-establish the supremacy of the Parliament in accordance with the Constitution of 1973.

Our youth constitute 30% of the society they are representative of a new generation. Their participation may ensure structural improvements in the national paradigm. It has been witnessed that during the Pakistan movement youth played a vital role in opinion formation and mass awareness and so is the time now. There is a need to guide our youth to take responsibility for our tomorrow.

To sum up, it is the political leadership that can ensure the permanence of democratic governance. The prospects are, however, not as dismal as sometimes portrayed. Already, the literacy rate in Pakistan has increased to more than fifty-five percent. Efforts are afoot to improve the standard of higher education. Economic growth and industrialization have given birth to a vocal urban society and middle class, which is growing. and gradually lessening the influence of the feudal class.

The vibrant electronic and print media is playing an effective role in constructive criticism of the government and in educating the masses. Elections are being held regularly, representative political leadership and political parties are getting stronger and a peaceful mode of transfer of power is becoming the norm. The bureaucracy (both civil and military), though still powerful, may retreat gradually and submit to the people’s power and will and concede to democratic governance. The democratic process is progressing and, hopefully, will be obstructed and derailed, as in the past.

Expected question about this Essay:

• Why has democracy failed in Pakistan?
• What practical measures do you suggest for strengthening democracy in Pakistan?

You may also like these:

• View other Relevant Essay Topics
• CSS Guide for Beginners for 2022
• PMS Guide: Syllabus, Paper Pattern Compulsory & Optional Subjects
• CSS Past Paper Subject Wise 
• LLB Past Papers

I am interested in writing content for educational purpose.

Most relevant ▼

• Essay on “Innovations are Never-ending Headways” for CSS, PMS
• Essay on “Single National Curriculum Pave the Way for the Desired Ideological Integration in Pakistan Society” for CSS, PMS
• Essay on “Single National Curriculum Paving the Way for the desired ideological integration in Pakistan Society” for CSS, PMS
• Essay on “The cost of inaction is greater than the cost of action” for CSS, PMS
• Essay on “Inflation – A Result of Poor Economic Policies or a Part of Global Economic Woes” for CSS, PMS
• Essay on “Democracy without Justice is Tyranny” for CSS, PMS
• Essay on “Man is Born Free but Everywhere he is in Chains” for CSS, PMS
• Essay on “Power Corrupts: Absolute Power Corrupts Absolutely” for CSS and PMS
• Essay on the “Role of Social Media in the Modern World” for CSS and PMS
• Essay on “Terrorism and its Socioeconomic Implications” for CSS, and PMS

• Ethics & Leadership
• Fact-Checking
• Media Literacy
• The Craig Newmark Center
• Reporting & Editing
• Ethics & Trust
• Tech & Tools
• Business & Work
• Educators & Students
• Training Catalog
• Custom Teaching
• For ACES Members
• All Categories
• Broadcast & Visual Journalism
• Fact-Checking & Media Literacy
• In-newsroom
• Memphis, Tenn.
• Minneapolis, Minn.
• St. Petersburg, Fla.
• Washington, D.C.
• Poynter ACES Introductory Certificate in Editing
• Poynter ACES Intermediate Certificate in Editing
• Ethics Training
• Ethics Articles
• Get Ethics Advice
• Fact-Checking Articles
• IFCN Grants
• International Fact-Checking Day
• Teen Fact-Checking Network
• International
• Media Literacy Training
• MediaWise Resources
• Ambassadors
• MediaWise in the News

Support responsible news and fact-based information today!

• Newsletters

Opinion | Wyoming reporter uncovers competitor using AI-generated quotes

A reporter resigned and the Cody Enterprise attached corrections to four articles after a competitor noted quotes that appeared real — but weren’t

Powell Tribune staff reporter CJ Baker thought a quote from a game warden in another news outlet seemed fishy. Turns out, it was probably generated by artificial intelligence .

Aaron Pelczar resigned from the Cody Enterprise this month after allegedly using generative AI — like ChatGPT — to make up quotes from a liquor store owner, an astronomer and a deputy district attorney, among others.

Baker began calling sources to verify quotes after reading an article about illegal elk hunting. The consensus from these calls: The quotes sounded innocuous and plausible — but they were never spoken. That’s a common characteristic of generative AI text.

Baker met with Pelczar and his editor in person with evidence about at least seven people who were quoted, but never interviewed. “It’s never comfortable to confront someone, but it’s especially uncomfortable when it involves colleagues (and competitors) in the media world,” Baker said. “What helped is that the editor at the Cody Enterprise, Chris Bacon, was gracious and receptive.”

In another oddity that’s characteristic of generative AI, the suspected stories added incorrect roles and educational titles to sources.

In one story, a professor of extragalactic astronomy was referred to as a meteorologist, and the “fireball report coordinator” for the American Meteor Society was given the title of doctor of astronomy.

And in one article, the author — likely AI — “‘took some liberties’ with what researchers know about raccoons’ cognition versus other species,” according to Baker’s reporting.

The Cody Enterprise, which was founded by William Frederick Cody, better known as Buffalo Bill, put out a statement that framed the incident as an “advanced form of plagiarism,” and said, “We now have a system set in place to catch AI generated stories. We will have longer conversations about how AI-generated stories are not acceptable, we will hold our employees to a higher standard and we stand by that.”

The outlet attached corrections to four articles, ranging from a story about a rare meteor shower to another about an embezzlement scandal.

“This sort of deception by a reporter is very similar to the old-fashioned ethical failures of plagiarism and fabrication. It’s what Jayson Blair did at The New York Times more than 20 years ago,” said Kelly McBride, Poynter’s senior vice president and the chair of the Craig Newmark Center for Ethics and Leadership. “He got caught when a reporter at a smaller paper called him out for plagiarizing her work.”

McBride said newsrooms can learn from this type of situation: There has to be close collaboration between reporters and editors. And that might include asking for a reporter’s notes if something seems off.

“Editors who brainstorm out with a reporter the purpose and the tone of a story ahead of time, as well as the reporting strategy, will have a lot of follow-up questions when some weird AI crap gets turned in,” she said.

The Cody Enterprise doesn’t have a public AI ethics policy. And this incident illustrates a weakness in many news organizations’ AI policies: They lack teeth . In this case, Pelczar resigned, and the paper issued its column and added corrections, but readers should always know what the consequences are for violating the trust of ethical AI use.

“It’s unfortunate, because we already know that the public thinks generative AI can be a form of journalistic cheating. And in this case, it was,” McBride said. “But there are going to be valid applications of AI in journalism. If the public doesn’t trust any of it, even when the application is good, they won’t believe the information.”

By Alex Mahadevan, MediaWise director

All eyes on Australia as the first contracts between Big Tech and publishers end

MELBOURNE — As the first contracts signed between platforms and publishers under Australia’s 2021 path-breaking news media bargaining code come to an end, talk has turned to what will replace them. On Wednesday, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese responded to a question about whether the government will impose a levy on social media companies.

“Social media companies have a social obligation,” he said. “… They should not be able to essentially harvest the work of news organizations that pay their journalists to do work, that should be valued.”

In 2021, Australia broke new ground by using competition law to get Google and Facebook to pay for news they use on their platforms. Political parties across the spectrum and publishers united around that common goal . Worried about the power imbalance between media outlets and the tech giants, Rod Sims, then the chair of the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission, proposed the code to push “digital platform companies” to negotiate with media outlets.

Under the code, if an agreement is not reached, the government can step in and require binding arbitration in which both sides submit a final offer.

Google and Meta paid out to dozens of outlets. Sims said the amount was $250 million AUD a year. As those contracts end, Google said it will not renew for more than one year at a time. Meta has said it will exit disseminating news in Australia, and has also threatened to exit South Africa if a code-type law is passed there. When Meta dropped news in Canada, traffic for small publishers plummeted.

The code has been widely viewed as a success in Australia, so government committees are considering a number of options. They include mandating “must carry” provisions so that platforms can’t drop news if they are told to pay for it, requiring (or “designating”) Meta and other platforms (such as Tiktok) to pay under the code, and imposing some sort of tax and local content requirement on Spotify and Netflix. There’s also discussion of whether the bargaining code can be expanded to include generative artificial intelligence firms, but now that News Corp. has signed a deal with OpenAI, the Rupert Murdoch firm is no longer lobbying for regulation.

Another idea that keeps coming up is a levy on social media, possibly dedicated to supporting quality journalism. Given the widespread lack of public enthusiasm for tech companies, there could be a lot of support for the idea.

“Technically, it’s not difficult to do and politically it’s amazing. These companies are as popular as a snake in a sleeping bag,” one Australian treasury official said to me this week.

One problem some officials see with this option is that Google and Meta have been offshoring their profits for years (including 1 billion AUS last year), and so are unlikely to pay. And were the Australian government able to collect, it’s not clear that funds would be given to journalism rather than put back in the general pot.

The world is watching Australia to see what it does next. A group of Indonesian editors are visiting this week to learn how to implement their country’s version of the code. Malaysia is also considering applying Australia’s model.

By Anya Schiffrin, contributor

Are we seeing more women’s sports?

LSU forward Angel Reese (10) battles for a rebound against Iowa forward Hannah Stuelke (45) and guard Caitlin Clark (22) during the second half of an Elite Eight round college basketball game during the NCAA Tournament, Monday, April 1, 2024, in Albany, N.Y. (AP Photo/Hans Pennink)

Even before the remarkable victories we’ve seen from America’s women athletes at the Paris Olympics, you might have seen a little more coverage of women’s sports in mainstream media. (Think Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese .)

A content analysis of coverage during the Tokyo Olympics found “three major U.S. dailies ran more stories about women’s than men’s sports, confirming the trend recorded in networked television prime-time programming toward a finally adequate representation of female athletes.”

That study , by Jenny Dean at Texas Wesleyan University and Francesco Somaini at Central Washington University, looked at coverage from The Dallas Morning News, The Star Tribune and The Seattle Times during two weeks of the games.

Here’s part of the study’s conclusion (minus the scholarly links to all their sources: “The main finding of this study is that not only did the news coverage of the 2021 Tokyo Olympics by the three U.S. dailies analyzed reflect the substantial equality of gender representation among athletes performing at the Olympic Games that is projected to be fully achieved by the 2024 Games scheduled in Paris; the American dailies in question actually offered greater coverage of women’s sports than they did of men’s. In other words, they provided evidence that a finally adequate representation of women athletes is not confined to the prime-time programming of networked television, but extends to the realm of newspaper coverage. While a trend approaching equality of treatment in the U.S. media has been highlighted by studies conducted over the past four decades, that trend has been recorded mostly in television programming about the Olympic Games; the fact that the coverage of women’s sports surpassed that of men’s in local newspapers too provides important additional evidence of a refreshingly positive development in media representations of women athletes.”

Check out the full study, its limitations and the authors’ other conclusions here .

By Kristen Hare, faculty

CNN media reporter Oliver Darcy goes indy

Oliver Darcy, senior media reporter at CNN (and a frequent source for us to compare notes to as we draft this newsletter), has left the network and gone independent. A new nightly newsletter called Status appeared in his subscribers’ inboxes this morning.

Status bills itself as the “reliable source for media news,” hearkening back to the canceled CNN Sunday show that focused on media and associated newsletter, which Darcy has run in recent years. It promises hard-hitting reporting, uncompromising analysis and no false equivalences.

Subscriptions to the newsletter start at $15 a month, or $150 per year.

“Oliver has established himself as a tough but scrupulously fair leading voice in media reporting and commentary — never afraid to call it as he sees it,” said CNN CEO Mark Thompson told Variety in a statement . “He has been a great shepherd of CNN’s Reliable Sources newsletter, and we wish him every success in his new entrepreneurial adventure.”

Darcy joined CNN in 2017 and took over the Reliable Sources newsletter when founder Brian Stelter departed the network in 2022, during CEO Chris Licht’s tumultuous reign. A CNN spokesperson told TheWrap that Reliable Sources will take a summer hiatus and return in the fall with a new lead writer.

“To say that it has been a hell of a ride at CNN would be an understatement,” Darcy wrote in his final edition of the CNN newsletter. “It has been the privilege of my career to serve as the steward of Reliable Sources, particularly at a time in which truth is under assault and people are thirsty for honest, trustworthy information. After all, the media is at the epicenter of truth.”

Ren LaForme, managing editor

David Gonzalez leaves The New York Times

I have a favorite photo from New York Times visual journalist David Gonzalez, and I’m certain other fans of his work can guess which one. It’s a black-and-white image made in 1979, at a street fair in the Mott Haven neighborhood of The Bronx. A suited man is pictured with a woman in heels. They’re dancing salsa in a close embrace. The man’s hand clutches her purse against the small of her back. The photo is mesmerizing, partly because the person who shot it is a journalist I admire, who for decades has documented the city’s Latino communities with authenticity.

After nearly 34 years, Gonzalez is leaving the Times. I found out the news through Facebook, where the proud Nuyorican and South Bronx native shared the official announcement from Times managing editor Marc Lacey and deputy managing editor Monica Drake. “It is with mixed emotions that we are writing to let you know that a New York Times stalwart, David Gonzalez, has decided to leave to pursue independent writing and visual projects,” the announcement read.

It feels surreal. As a journalist who, like Gonzalez, was born in New York City (shout out to Brooklyn!), I have long admired him for dedicating his career to stories about New York, Latinos, the Bronx and more. I’ve appreciated his documentation of and reflections on his beloved Bronx , of his richly told stories about a Pentecostal storefront church in Harlem, of his photos through the years of dance as an expression for Puerto Rican New Yorkers. The city has changed so much since I last lived there, but I always felt that at least it had Gonzalez capturing its spirit. He has held many positions at the Times over the years: Bronx bureau chief, Metro religion writer, columnist, co-editor for Lens, the Times’ photojournalism blog.

“I’m very proud of what I’ve contributed there. I put my record up against anybody’s,” Gonzalez told me over the phone Thursday. “I always said years ago that if you wanted to look at my work in the Bronx, not one story is going to do it. It has to be over time.”

Gonzalez said he feels good leaving now. He’s spent about half his life at The New York Times. Since the announcement, the journalist has been flooded with well-wishes from family, friends and readers. “What was really, really satisfying was that people got it. They said I did it my way, and I did it with integrity and honesty,” he said. “And those are the things that are non-negotiable for me as a journalist.”

Gonzalez has many projects before him. He has a vast archive he needs to organize, and he’s preparing for a few exhibits featuring his work on Latin American religion and Nuyoricans. He also has to finish a proposal for a collection of essays. “I’m not going to do anything different,” he said. “If anything, I’m just going to do things on my terms.”

I look forward to seeing what’s next.

By Amaris Castillo, contributor

Media tidbits and links for your weekend review

• The ABC News debate between former President Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris set for Sept. 10 is back on — for now.
• Journalists at Hearst Connecticut Media Group — which includes 10 dailies, 13 weeklies, a statewide magazine and a website — announced Thursday that they are unionizing with the NewsGuild. If successful, the union will have 110 members. More than 84% of eligible staff have signed union authorization cards.
• Rioters have targeted mosques and Muslim communities in the United Kingdom after social media users misidentified a man who killed three children with a knife. The BBC’s Marianna Spring dug into Channel3Now, “a website whose story giving a false name for the 17-year-old charged over the Southport attack was widely quoted in viral posts on X,” and wrote, “The real story of the news website accused of fuelling riots.” 
• Guardian US reporter Sam Levine points out a valuable interview lesson in this New Yorker article about Nancy Pelosi . David Remnick got a remarkable quote from Pelosi just by sitting silently.
• CNN international correspondent Larry Madowo was reporting live from Nairobi, Kenya, on Thursday when he was hit by fragments from projectiles fired at him by police. Watch the dramatic video here .
• Who’s to blame for pink slime news sites ? Columbia Journalism Review’s Priyanjana Bengani tracked down some of the funders of these partisan sides masquerading as news in “The Non-Profits and PACs that spent $14 million on the Metric Media network in 2021-22.”
• Kamala Harris has yet to take questions from reporters since launching her campaign nearly three weeks ago. The Daily Beast’s Mary Ann Akers and Mini Racker with “Trump Turns Up Heat on Harris Over Dodging the Press.” But, Politico Playbook notes , Harris has been chatty with political reporters off the record, very unlike President Joe Biden.
• Talking Points Memo’s David Kurtz with “20 Years Later, Political Press Still Falls Hard For Swift Boat Attacks.”
• CNN is bolstering its late-night, weekend comedy offerings by bringing on former “Daily Show” correspondent Roy Wood Jr. to host “Have I Got News For You,” an adaptation of a long-running BBC panel comedy show. Variety’s Brian Steinberg has more .
• Finally, something really fun. The first trailer for “Saturday Night” dropped Thursday . “Saturday Night” is a Jason Reitman-helmed film about the first episode of “Saturday Night Live.” The casting looks immaculate and the whole thing seems like a massive, delightful mess.

Today’s Poynter Report was written by Alex Mahadevan, Anya Schiffrin, Kristen Hare, Amaris Castillo, Angela Fu and Ren LaForme.

More resources for journalists

• Get an AI ethics framework for your newsroom. Start here.
• Public media journalists: attend our Digital Transformation Project Q&A webinar Aug. 13.
• Work-Life Chemistry : Ditch work-life balance for a more sustainable approach.

Have feedback or a tip? Email Poynter senior media writer Tom Jones at [email protected] .

The Poynter Report is our daily media newsletter. To have it delivered to your inbox Monday-Friday, sign up here .

Tim Walz didn’t pick Minnesota’s new flag, and its designer said it wasn’t inspired by Somalia’s

The flag includes a star and blue coloring, as does Somalia’s national flag, but Somalia’s flag was not an inspiration, its designer says

Opinion | New York Times adds 300,000 subscribers and ends most recent quarter in the black

Much of its growth was driven by a ‘bundle’ of news, cooking and games. The company has stayed profitable while many news organizations struggle.

What Gov. Tim Walz said about the border wall and investing in a ‘ladder factory’

Some Trump supporters shared a 14-second clip of Walz and said it showed he planned to welcome immigrants into the country illegally

Robin Roberts of ABC’s ’Good Morning America’ to receive Poynter Medal for Lifetime Achievement in Journalism

The celebration will occur at the Bowtie Ball Nov. 16 in Tampa, Florida.

You must be logged in to post a comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Start your day informed and inspired.

Get the Poynter newsletter that's right for you.

Advertisement

Where Tim Walz Stands on the Issues

As governor of Minnesota, he has enacted policies to secure abortion protections, provide free meals for schoolchildren, allow recreational marijuana and set renewable energy goals.

• Share full article

By Maggie Astor

• Aug. 6, 2024

Gov. Tim Walz of Minnesota, the newly announced running mate to Vice President Kamala Harris, has worked with his state’s Democratic-controlled Legislature to enact an ambitious agenda of liberal policies: free college tuition for low-income students, free meals for schoolchildren, legal recreational marijuana and protections for transgender people.

“You don’t win elections to bank political capital,” Mr. Walz wrote last year about his approach to governing. “You win elections to burn political capital and improve lives.”

Republicans have slammed these policies as big-government liberalism and accused Mr. Walz of taking a hard left turn since he represented a politically divided district in Congress years ago.

Here is an overview of where Mr. Walz stands on some key issues.

Mr. Walz signed a bill last year that guaranteed Minnesotans a “fundamental right to make autonomous decisions” about reproductive health care on issues such as abortion, contraception and fertility treatments.

Abortion was already protected by a Minnesota Supreme Court decision, but the new law guarded against a future court reversing that precedent as the U.S. Supreme Court did with Roe v. Wade, and Mr. Walz said this year that he was also open to an amendment to the state’s Constitution that would codify abortion rights.

Another bill he signed legally shields patients, and their medical providers, if they receive an abortion in Minnesota after traveling from a state where abortion is banned.

We are having trouble retrieving the article content.

Please enable JavaScript in your browser settings.

Thank you for your patience while we verify access. If you are in Reader mode please exit and  log into  your Times account, or  subscribe  for all of The Times.

Thank you for your patience while we verify access.

Already a subscriber?  Log in .

Want all of The Times?  Subscribe .

Try AI-powered search

• The wisdom in calling Donald Trump weird

Kamala Harris and Tim Walz are trying to make Democrats normal again

Your browser does not support the <audio> element.

T he bickering among Democrats and Republicans over which party’s nominee is weirder is among the more hopeful developments of this presidential campaign. It implicitly brings to the forefront of politics the question: what is normal? President Joe Biden’s bid to be re-elected at the age of 81 was obviously not that. Voters knew it all along, even as Democratic leaders, while secretly sharing the opinion, laboured to insist otherwise. The exultation within the party over what should be quite normal—having a candidate who campaigns vigorously, speaks clearly and laughs easily—is an index of how strange Mr Biden’s wan, creaky candidacy had become.

Mr Biden’s abdication cleared the way for Vice-President Kamala Harris to focus attention on the abnormality of the Republican nominee, Donald Trump . Rather than stick with Mr Biden’s sombre approach, warning of a menace to America’s soul, she and her allies began needling Mr Trump. Tim Walz, the governor of Minnesota and now Ms Harris’s running-mate, started calling him “weird”, and as she and other Democrats joined in, the former president foolishly took the bait.

Mr Trump might instead have chosen to wear the adjective as a badge of honour. He has pulled off that trick with more daunting challenges, such as having his mugshot taken or being convicted of felonies. By comparison, interpreting the word “weird” to suit his politics seems simple. Being “weird”, in the sense of not following the herd, is a good thing, and Mr Trump’s message from the beginning has been that he is not a conventional politician. Of course he would seem weird to the swamp creatures. The T -shirts practically write themselves.

But it is conceivable that being called “weird”, with its whiff of high-school stigma, of relegation to a low-status social group, pokes some particular sore spot deep inside the Republican nominee. In any event Mr Trump’s I’m-rubber-you’re-glue reflex is to bounce any insult back to its source, from Hillary Clinton’s claim he was a Russian puppet (“No puppet—you’re the puppet”) to Mr Biden’s warning that Mr Trump was a threat to democracy (“I’m the opposite. They’re the threat to democracy.”) Hence: “They’re the weird ones. Nobody’s ever called me weird.”

This time he has a point: Democrats have traditionally been the weird ones, particularly Democrats from California. The last serious Democrat to run for president from California was Jerry Brown, known, because of his mix of idealism and eccentricity, as “Governor Moonbeam”. Ms Harris’s move to seize the high, if flat, ground of normalcy—think football pitch in midwestern suburb—is a clever act of pre-emption. It has been accompanied by reversals that suggest she thinks Democratic politics, including her own, recently got pretty weird in a bad way.

Ms Harris has clarified that she no longer wants to ban fracking or create a federal jobs guarantee. She also opposes a single-payer health-care system and forcing gun owners to sell their assault weapons to the government. She has begun boasting about her years fighting crime and trying to strengthen the border. She is disappointing leftists by calling for the restoration of the protections of Roe v Wade , which established a right to abortion until the fetus was viable, rather than a more expansive guarantee.

She is also presenting herself as an optimistic fighter for the future and warning that “Donald Trump wants to take our country backward.” That wish may not seem as weird as hoping to disguise the death of a bear cub as a bicycle accident in Central Park, as Robert F. Kennedy junior, an independent candidate, says he did. But it is an axiom of American politics that elections are about the future, and Mr Trump often seems obsessed with the past.

How serious Ms Harris is about repositioning the party, and whether voters will buy it, are open questions. Her choice of Mr Walz shows she is trying to walk a line between antagonising the left and appealing to moderates. A veteran, former geography teacher and hunter with a zest for dad jokes, Mr Walz radiates normal-guy vibes. But he is to the left of other candidates Ms Harris considered. For now, polls show many independent voters do not know much about Ms Harris, which gives her a chance to establish herself as normal. Mr Trump sees the challenge. As he put it at a rally on August 3rd, “We have to work hard to define her.” He has chosen to do that not just by emphasising her former positions but by mocking her identity and intelligence.

Going for gold

Mr Trump is falling back on the politics that helped him in 2016 to carve a path to victory in the electoral college through states such as Pennsylvania, turning out alienated white men who do not usually vote. The approach reflects his long-held view of the motivating power of racism. Back in the 1990s (as Maggie Haberman reported in her biography of Mr Trump, “Confidence Man”), a consultant showed Mr Trump a projection that non-whites would eventually constitute the American majority. Mr Trump replied that would never happen, because a revolution would prevent it. “This isn’t going to become South Africa,” he said.

Are such views normal? Even some on the left nowadays treat racism as a barrier Americans cannot surmount. Yet while Ms Harris’s candidacy was coming into focus, Americans were cheering their Olympic team as it presented a daily display of diversity, teamwork, excellence and patriotism. Attitudes change. In 1958 just 4% of Americans approved of marriage between people of different races, according to the Gallup polling group; by 2021 that proportion was 94%, a change the organisation hailed as “one of the largest transformations in public opinion in Gallup’s history”. The arc of history may not inevitably bend towards justice, but in America it is weird to argue otherwise. ■

Stay on top of American politics with  The US in brief , our daily newsletter with fast analysis of the most important electoral stories, and  Checks and Balance , a weekly note from our Lexington columnist that examines the state of American democracy and the issues that matter to voters.

Explore more

This article appeared in the United States section of the print edition under the headline “The wisdom in calling Donald Trump weird”

United States August 10th 2024

Tim walz’s life story is appealing, but his record is complex.

• Kamala Harris leads Donald Trump in our nationwide poll tracker

A short-term work visa shows the benefits of immigration

Can churches fix america’s affordable-housing crunch, how the trump campaign has become more professional.

From the August 10th 2024 edition

Discover stories from this section and more in the list of contents

More from United States

America’s J1 visa programme shows how open borders can build cultural links

The promise of the YIGBY movement

In Pennsylvania at least, it has upped its ground game

Kamala Harris’s running-mate is hard to categorise

Kamala Harris introduces “Coach” Tim Walz, her trusty running-mate

As Republicans seek to brand their rivals as dangerously liberal, Democrats are matching Donald Trump’s public displays of enthusiasm

Why Kamala Harris picked Tim Walz as her running-mate

Compared with a bolder but more divisive alternative, the Minnesota governor was the easier choice