CBSE Class 9 Political Science Notes Chapter 1 What is Democracy? Why Democracy?

CBSE Class 9 Political Science Notes Chapter 1: Chapter 1 of Class 9 Political Science is about understanding what democracy is and why it is important. Democracy is a type of government where the leaders are chosen by the people through free and fair elections.

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CBSE Class 9 Political Science Notes Chapter 1 Overview

CBSE Class 9 Political Science Notes Chapter 1 PDF

CBSE Class 9 Political Science Notes Chapter 1 PDF

CBSE Notes Class 9 Political Science Chapter 1-What Is Democracy? Why Democracy?

What Is Democracy? Why Democracy?

Definition of Democracy

Features of Democracy

Who are the rulers in a democracy?

• In a democracy, the rulers are elected representatives of the people. These representatives make decisions on behalf of the citizens and are accountable to them.

What kind of election constitutes a democratic election?

• A democratic election is one that is free, fair, and competitive. Every eligible citizen has the right to vote without any discrimination, and the process is transparent and impartial.

Who are the people who can elect the rulers or get elected as rulers?

• In a democracy, all adult citizens typically have the right to vote and stand for elections. This inclusivity ensures that everyone has an equal opportunity to participate in the political process.

What form of government is a democracy?

• Democracy can take various forms, such as direct democracy, where people directly participate in decision-making, and representative democracy, where elected officials represent the people. The common thread is that in all forms of democracy, the ultimate power rests with the people.

Major Decisions by Elected Leaders

Free and Fair Electoral Competition

One Person, One Vote, One Value

Rule of Law and Respect for Rights

In summary, democracy is a form of government where:

1. Elected leaders make significant decisions on behalf of the people.
2. Elections provide a fair opportunity for citizens to choose and change their leaders.
3. Every adult citizen has an equal right to participate in elections.
4. The exercise of this right ensures that governments operate under the rule of law and uphold citizens' rights as outlined in the constitution.

Why Democracy?

Cons of Democracy

1. Instability : Frequent changes in leadership can lead to political instability, impacting long-term planning and governance continuity.
2. Political Competition : Democracy often prioritizes political competition over moral principles, potentially compromising ethical standards in governance.
3. Delays in Decision-Making : The need for consultation with various stakeholders can delay decision-making processes, especially in urgent matters.
4. Poor Decision-Making : Elected leaders may not always make decisions in the best interest of the people, resulting in policies that do not address societal needs effectively.
5. Corruption : Competitive electoral processes can breed corruption as politicians vie for power and resources to win elections.
6. Public Decision-Making : Critics argue that ordinary citizens may lack the expertise to make informed decisions on complex issues, suggesting that governance should be left to experts.

Arguments in Favour of Democracy

1. Accountability : Democratic governments are more accountable to their citizens. For instance, during the famines in India and China in the late 1950s and early 1960s, India responded better to food scarcity due to its democratic accountability compared to China.
2. Quality of Decision-Making : Democracy values consultation and debate, resulting in decisions that are more thoroughly scrutinized and debated. This deliberative process reduces the likelihood of hasty or ill-considered decisions.
3. Conflict Resolution : In diverse societies like India, democracy provides a peaceful mechanism to manage conflicts and differences of opinion. It ensures that no single group dominates others permanently, fostering social harmony.
4. Enhanced Citizen Dignity : Democracy upholds political equality, affirming the dignity of all citizens regardless of their social or economic status. It ensures that everyone has an equal say in shaping the future of their country.
5. Self-Correction : Democracy allows for public scrutiny of governmental decisions and policies. Mistakes are openly discussed, and corrective measures can be implemented through democratic processes such as elections.

Broader Meanings of Democracy

1. Scale and Complexity : Modern societies involve large populations and complex issues, making direct participation of every citizen impractical.
2. Time and Expertise : Citizens may lack the time, interest, or expertise to engage in every decision-making process directly.

Application Beyond Government

• Community Decision-Making : In smaller communities, direct democracy can be feasible, where all members participate in decision-making directly. This model is exemplified by the Gram Sabha in Indian villages.

Benefits of CBSE Class 9 Political Science Notes Chapter 1

• Introduction to Political Science : Chapter 1 introduces students to the study of politics. It explains basic terms like politics, government, and state, helping students understand how societies are governed.
• Understanding Key Concepts : Students learn important ideas such as power, authority, and sovereignty. These concepts are crucial for understanding how governments function and make decisions.
• Relevance of Politics : It shows students how political decisions affect their lives and communities. This encourages them to become more aware of current events and civic issues.
• Promoting Democratic Values : Learning about government and politics promotes values like equality, tolerance, and participation in democracy. Students learn to be responsible citizens.
• Exam Preparation : Finally, studying Chapter 1 prepares students for exams by covering topics specified in the CBSE syllabus. It equips them with knowledge and skills needed for assessments.