📘 Political Theory – Page 24 DEMOCRACY: Theory, Evolution and Contemporary Debates
Democracy is not just a system of government — it is a way of life.
1️⃣ Meaning of Democracy
The word democracy comes from Greek:
- Demos – People
- Kratos – Power
Democracy means “Rule of the People”.
2️⃣ Classical Democracy (Ancient Athens)
- Direct participation
- Citizens voted themselves
- Excluded women, slaves, foreigners
Limited democracy but foundational idea of participation.
3️⃣ Liberal Democracy
- Representative government
- Periodic elections
- Rule of law
- Protection of rights
- Separation of powers
Key thinkers: Locke, Mill
4️⃣ Representative Democracy
Citizens elect representatives who govern on their behalf.
Advantages:
- Efficient in large states
- Professional governance
Criticism:
- Elite capture
- Political apathy
5️⃣ Participatory Democracy
Citizens actively participate beyond elections.
- Referendums
- Local governance
- Public consultations
Carole Pateman supports this model.
6️⃣ Deliberative Democracy
Decision-making through rational discussion.
Associated with Jürgen Habermas.
Focus: Reasoned debate, not just voting.
7️⃣ Elite Theory Critique
Thinkers: Pareto, Mosca, Michels
- All democracies are ruled by elites
- Iron Law of Oligarchy
Democracy is an illusion of participation.
8️⃣ Marxist Critique
- Liberal democracy protects capitalism
- Political equality without economic equality is incomplete
Real democracy requires classless society.
9️⃣ Democracy in India
- Universal Adult Franchise
- Parliamentary System
- Independent Judiciary
- Federal Structure
- Decentralization – Panchayati Raj
India is the world’s largest democracy.
🔟 Contemporary Challenges
- Populism
- Money power in elections
- Media manipulation
- Majoritarianism
- Decline of institutions
1️⃣1️⃣ Substantive vs Procedural Democracy
- Procedural: Elections and voting
- Substantive: Social justice, equality, dignity
True democracy combines both.
Democracy survives not by ballots alone, but by constitutional morality and civic responsibility.
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