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Definition

Democracy, by definition, is a political system in which the supreme power lies in a body of citizens who can elect people to represent them. It can also be defined as the political orientation of those who favor government by the people or by their elected representatives. The two basic types of democracy are direct and representative. In direct democracy, people take active part in law-making and other government decisions. In representative democracy, representatives elected by people take part in law-making and decisions taken by the government.

The main advantage of a direct democracy is that people have a great sense of involvement in government decisions as they actively participate in policy initiatives. But chances are that important decisions are driven by opinions of those who aren't quite capable of decision-making. Policy decisions are made with the consensus of people which makes the process fair. But there are chances of majority influencing the minority leading to wrong decisions being made. The other more common form of democracy is representative. It is similar to the US republican form of government. Here we discuss in detail, the pros and cons of representative democracy.

Advantages

Democracy can provide for changes in government without violence. In a democracy, power can be transferred from one party to another by means of elections. The jurisdiction of the citizens of a nation determines its ruling authority.

Moreover, any government is bound by an election term after which it has to compete against other parties to regain authority. This system prevents monopoly of the ruling authority. The ruling party has to make sure it works for its people for it cannot remain being the authority after completing its term unless re-elected by the people.

This brings in a feeling of obligation towards the citizens. The ruling authorities owe their success in the elections to the citizens of the nation. They feel grateful towards people. It can serve as their motivation to work for the people for it is the common masses that have complete power over choosing their government.

Another important advantage of democracy is that the people gain a sense of participation in the process of choosing their government. They get the opportunity to voice their opinions by means of electoral votes. This breeds a sense of belonging towards society.

Disadvantages

In a democratic nation, it is the citizens who hold the right to elect their representatives and their governing authorities. According to a common observation, not all the citizens are fully aware of the political scenario in their country. The common masses may not be aware of the political issues in society. This may result in people making the wrong choices during election.

As the government is subject to change after every election term, the authorities may work with a short-term focus. As they have to face an election after the completion of each term, they may lose focus on working for the people and rather focus on winning elections.

Another disadvantage of democracy is that mobs can influence people. Citizens may vote in favor of a party under the influence of the majority. Compelled or influenced by opinions of those around, a person may not use his own judgment when voting.

Every form of government is bound to have some shortfalls. Different people have different views about the various political systems. The advantages and disadvantages of any political system have to be weighed carefully before arriving at any conclusion.