Telangana TSBIE TS Inter 1st Year Political Science Study Material 8th Lesson Democracy Textbook Questions and Answers.
TS Inter 1st Year Political Science Study Material 8th Lesson Democracy
Long Answer Questions
Question 1.
Define Democracy and explain its features.
Answer:
Democracy is an important and most significant form of government. The term “Democracy” is derived from two Greek words namely ’Demos’ and “Kratio”. In greek language Demos means the people and Kratio means power. Hence Democracy means power of the people.
Definitions of Democracy:
Abraham Lincoln :
” Democracy is a government of the people, by the people and for the people”.
J.R. Seeley :
“Democracy is a government in which everyone has a share.”
Lord Bryce :
“Democracy is that form of government in which the ruling power of the •state is vested not in a particular class but in the members of the community as a whole”.
Features of Democracy :
1) Liberty :
Democratic government aims at securing maximum liberty for its citizens. It is built on the foundations of Liberty and Equality. Democracy is the only government which assures liberties to the people by incorporating them in the constitution.
2) Equality :
In the words of Prof. Seeley, democracy is “a government in which everyone has a share”. A democracy government gives opportunities to all for making them to take part in political matters. Every citizen has the right to vote and to contest in the election.
3) Independent Judiciary :
Independent Judiciary is important principle of Democracy. The higher courts in democratic states act as watchdog of the people’s freedoms. They issue several writs for preserving and upholding fundamental freedoms. They serve as the custodian of people’s rights.
4) Government of the people :
Democracy is government by the representatives of the people and these are elected by the adults, who are free to vote as they please without being coerced or pressurized by anyone. Democracy is the government by ballot not by bullet.
5) Majority Rule :
Democracy stands for a rule of the majority with adequate safeguards to the minorities. Every state has political parties. One of the political parties comes to power by capturing the majority of seats in the legislature. This means democracy is a system of government based on the principle of majority rule.
6) Follows constitution principles :
A democratic government functions strictly according to the principles of a constitution. Whether written or unwritten, this has been accepted by the people.
7) Against to violence and revolutions :
Democracy provides for a change in government according to constitutional principles and it is against any change by violent or revolutionary means.
8) Against to coercive methods :
Democracy opposed to coercive methods, even if they are for the social good. A government cannot be called democratic, if it uses illegitimate coercion in the name of social welfare.
9) Importance to Human Rights :
Democracy upholds the dignity of the human personality and gives various kinds of rights to the individual. Actually, to providing constitutional rights to the people is the fundamental principle of the democracy. The constitutions of India and U.S.A. had provided several rights to their people.
10) Right to speak :
Democracy allows all individuals the right to speak, criticize and disagree with others constructively.
11) Encouragement to Ideas :
Democracy allows plurality of ideas and ideologies and stands firmly on the principles of tolerance. In the legislature there is plenty of worth full discussions occurred among the public representatives related to public issues.
12) Against Imperialism and war :
Democracy in the international sphere stands for the principle of self determination and for the regulation of interstate relation on the basis of equality, justice and reason. Democracy is against aggressive nationalism, imperialism and war.
Besides the above, Democracy has some more principles like Rule of law, welfare mechanism, Decentralization of powers, Judicial review etc.
Question 2.
What are the two types of Democracy.
Answer:
Democracy is an important and most significant form of government. The term Democracy is derived from two greek words namely Demos and Kratio. In greek language Demos means the people and Kratio means power. Hence Democracy means power of the people.
Definitions of Democracy:
Abraham Lincoln :
“Democracy is a government of the people, by the people and for the people”.
J.R. Seeley :
“Democracy is a government in which everyone has a share.”
Lord Bryce:
“Democracy is that form of government in which the ruling power of the state is vested not in a particular class but in the members of the community as a whole”.
Types of Democracy :
Democracy is mainly classified into two types, namely Direct Democracy and indirect Democracy. These two types are explained as below.
1) Direct Democracy :
When the people themselves directly express their will on public affairs, this type of government is called direct democracy. In direct democracy the citizens are the real makers of the state policy and programme of action. The will of the state is directly formulated by them and not through their elected delegates.
Some direct democratic checks such as referendum and initiative are in operation today Switzerland and in a few states of the United States. In some small Cantons of Switzerland adult citizens meet in any Sunday in April or May and by show of hands, elect their representative offices as also approve the measures they needed.
2) Indirect Democracy :
Indirect democracy is also known as representative democracy. In this type of democracy a clear distinction is made between the immediate sovereign and the ultimate sovereign. The legislature which consists of the elected representatives of the people formulates and expresses the will of the state. Hence, the legislature is the immediate sovereign authority.
In this type of democracy the people elect their representatives periodically and review their activities during their full term. If their activities are proved to be unsatisfactory, the people can with draw their trust in them and choose new representatives. Representative democracy thus combines efficient administration with popular sovereignty. In representative democracy the parties articulate and organize the will of the people and act as the transmission belt between the government and the governed. In a representative democracy the ultimate source of authority remains the people.
Question 3.
What is Democracy? Explain its merits and Demerits?
Answer:
Democracy is an important and most significant form of government. The term “Democracy” is derived from two greek words namely ‘Demos’ and “Kratio”. In greek language Demos means the people and Kratio means power. Hence Democracy means power of the people.
Definitions of Democracy:
Abraham Lincoln :
“Democracy is a government of the people, by the people and for the people”.
J.R. Seeley :
“Democracy is a government in which everyone has a share.”
Merits of Democracy :
In modem world almost every state has choose the Democracy because of its merits. So, here we mentioned the merits of the Democracy.
1) Efficient form of Government :
In democracy, the representatives of the people will run the administration on efficient lines. As they are responsible and responsive to the people, they always make laws and implement them by consulting various administrative experts and eminent leaders. They also try to minimize the expenditure of the government by following simplicity and economy in administration. The administrative and executive personnel will be recruited on the basis of merit, efficiency, experience and their service will be utilized in implementing various public welfare programmes.
2) Upholds Individual Liberties :
It is only in democracy that the liberties of individuals can be guaranteed to a great extent. Citizens living in democracy enjoy a great amount of liberty. Their rights, liberties and freedoms are incorporated in and guaranteed by a written constitution. Any attempt made to take away or confiscate one’s liberties are forbidden. The various courts preserve, protect and promote individual liberties through their interpretation and analysis of different provisions of the constitution.
3) Importance to Equality :
Democracy gives preference to equality. Democracy provides equal rights and liberties to all citizens alike in political, economic and social matters. It opposes the practice of untouchability, bonded labour and discrimination on the grounds of religion, region, language, birth etc.
4) Political awareness :
Democracy is a large scale experiment in Public education or political awareness. Election campaigns give education to the masses. At the time of election, the canvassing through press and platform enlightens the mind of the electorate.
5) Promotes Patriotism :
Democracy promotes patriotic feelings among the people. People get several opportunities in selecting and electing their representatives to various bodies. They feel conscious and proud in participating in the working of the democratic institutions in a perfect manner. They show enthusiasm by extending their co-operation and support to the nation at the times of crisis. This is evident in the case of Indians during the Chinese and Pakistani invasions at the borders on several occasions.
6) Democracy serves as a school of citizenship :
One more advantage of democracy is that it serves as a training school of citizenship. In democracy right to vote, right to contest, right to criticize the government and other political rights make the citizens politically trained in citizenship and other matters.
7) Democracy inculcates moral values :
Democracy promotes a better and higher standard of natural character than any other government whatever. It teaches co-operation, responsibility, toleration and self-sacrifice. According to Lowell “the best government in the long run is the one that nurtures a people strong in moral fiber, in integrity, industry, self-reliance and courage”.
8) Democracy gives Preference to public opinion :
In fact, Democracy is the real representative of the Public opinion. According to Hearen Shaw, ‘Democracy ties a nerve to every individual; it makes a connection between him and the centre”.
9) It reduce the danger of revolution :
Democracy is a government by discussion and persuasion. Every other form of government rests on force. Democracy gives every individual and every group of people a chance to express their views on public matters, to demonstrate their dissatisfaction and resentment against governmental measures and to convert the masses to their own point of view. They have a right to change the government by their vote. So, there is no chance to people opt revolutionary methods.
10) Symbol of progress and welfare programmes :
Democracy is the only form of government which ensures always the progress and welfare of the people.
11) Support World Peace :
Democracy promotes world peace and opposed to war and violence. It seeks the change through evolutionary process with the purview of constitution. Democracy believes in peaceful co-existence and co-operation. According to Bums, “Democratic movements have always been movements for peace”.
Demerits of Democracy:
1) Expensive Government :
Democracy is the most expensive type of government. A lot of money is spent on election propaganda. Millions of money is spent on the sessions of the national and provincial legislatures. Carlyle said the parliament as a Talking shop’. Italian dictator Mussolini could, therefore, correctly say that democracy is not suited to a poor country.
2) Weak and instable Government :
Democracy is a weak and instable type of government. In those countries where there are multiple party systems, the coalitions fall frequently and bring instability in the government. For ex; In India 1977 to 79; 1989 to 1991; 1996 to 1999 coalition governments failed to rule the government with stable.
3) Government by the minority :
In practical Democracy does not represent majority opinion. Actually Democracy is said to be government by the majority. This claim on behalf of democracy is not sustainable. In every state a large number of people never exercise their vote. Besides, in most democratic states the first-past-the-post electoral system prevails (majority vote system). Under this system it often happens that the party securing a minority vote is returned to power. The number of votes secured by the party in power is less than those obtained by the opposition. Democracy thus ceases to be government by the majority.
4) Discouragement to culture, civilization and intellectual development :
Democracy is the government by masses and always have conservative outlook. They show no interest in the development of literature, art and architecture. In Democracy intellectuals always keeps distance from elections. So many examples are in history defeat of intellectuals in direct elections.
5) Slow decision making :
Democracy is slow decision making government. Because it takes lot of time to take decision. It delays the work. Legislature process, party system, opposition parties, coalition politics plays key role in decision making in Democratic governments.
Question 4.
Discuss the essential conditions for the success of Democracy.
Answer:
The following conditions are essential for the success of democracy.
1) Sound system of Education :
The success of democracy requires adequate education for the citizens. Ignorance, innocence and under education prevent them from adopting right attitudes and large-scale reforms. Education sharpens the intellect of individuals. It develops a proper understanding of various things. It makes the citizens vigilant. Besides, this enables them to assess and criticise the policies of government.
2) Enlightened Citizenship :
Enlightened citizens are an asset to the democratic state. They can excise proper vigilance. They can actively participate in public affairs and help their fellow citizens in the exercise of their rights and discharge of their reproducibilities. They extend co-operation to the government in all its good work.
3) Independent Press :
An independent press is a prerequisite of democracy. It enables the people to receive accurate and unbiased information regarding the activities of the government. It not only keeps the people in touch with government activities but also ventilates their grievances. It strives to promote harmonious relationship between the people and the government.
4) Strong Opposition :
The success of parliamentary democracy depends to a great extent on the strong and effective opposition. Such an opposition will act as a check against the government by pointing out its lapses. In this regard, the role of opposition in some advanced states.
5) Decentralization of powers :
Decentralization of powers and establishment of democratic institutions at the grass roots level is indispensable for the healthy organisation of democratic institutions. The representative bodies at the grass roots level (as known as Panchayat Raj Institutions (PRIs) in India) will act as the mini legislatures. The residents of local areas will be able to know how to exercise their franchise.
6) Absence of economic disparities :
Democracy can not function smoothly when there are economic disparities in a country. When a country comprises a large number of poor people and a few wealthy persons, democracy could not work successfully.
7) Social Equality :
Social equality is another prerequisite of democracy. Caste, class and racial differences will impede the healthy working of democracy. Such elements encourage of democratic polity. To be successful, democracy must open its doors to everybody on equal basis by providing equal social opportunities to all in social sphere. Social equality must not only be proclaimed but also be practiced.
8) Faith in democracy :
Certain democratic beliefs and values like individual’s worth, need for tolerance of differences, decisions through discussions etc., should be inculcated among the people.
9) Sagacious Leadership :
Sagacious leadership is another essential condition of democracy. Sagacious leaders, by dint’ of their administrative acumen, political propriety, social commitment and economic perspective, will be able to lead the democratic state to greater heights of glory.
10) Honesty and transparency :
Honest persons belonging to various walks life, when entrusted with major responsibilities of the government, will strive for the success of democracy. Similarly transparency in administration also acts as a basic ingredient for the success of democracy.
11) Absence of militarism :
Democracy functions mostly in countries which are relatively free from militarism. In rules out the use of force and believes in the worth of individuals. It provides adequate opportunities to the people basing on worth, ability and dedication militarism, on the other hand, demands concentration of authority and favours despotism.
Short Answer Questions
Question 1.
Define Democracy and mention its merits?
Answer:
Definitions :
1) Abraham Lincoln :
“Democracy is a government of the people, by the people and for the people”.
2) Lord Bryce :
“Democracy is that form of government in which the ruling power of the state is vested not in a particular class but in the members of the community as a whole”.
3) J.R. Seeley :
“Democracy is a government in which everyone has a share”.
Merits :
Democracy has the following merits.
a) Efficient government :
Prof. Garner described democracy as an efficient and effective government. The government in democracy carries all its activities efficiently and effectively both in normal times and emergencies.
b) Upholds individual liberties :
Democracy is the only government that upholds individual liberties. It guarantees certain civil rights to the people thereby providing an opportunity for them to become ideal and responsible citizens.
c) Assures equality :
Democracy assures equality of individuals in political and economic spheres. The people living in democratic nation enjoy all the political, civil and economic rights and privileges equally without any discrimination.
d) Educates the masses :
Democracy is described as a laboratory for a large scale experiments in public education. The masses in democracy are educated and enlightened through public meetings, election campaigns, distribution of pamphlets, etc.
e) Promotes patriotism :
The people in a democracy think that the country is their own property. When the country is in difficulties, they come forward to protect the interests of the nation. Therefore democracy develops patriotic spirit in the people.
f) Develops sense of responsibility :
J.S. Mill says that “democracy promotes a better and higher form of national character than any other policy whatever”. Since it is a rule by themselves, the people behave with a great sense of responsibility.
g) Training school for citizenship :
De Tocqueville, a French writer said that democracy serves as a training school for citizenship. Democracy promotes intellectual and moral qualities among the people.
h) A rational government :
Democracy is based on the principle that no man is infallible. It adopts a process of discussion and criticism which serves as necessary correctives to the abuse of power. Besides, they safeguard the rational nature of the political system.
Question 2.
What is Democracy and mention its de-merits?
Answer:
Demerits :
Democracy has the following demerits.
1) Expensive Government :
Democracy is the most expensive type of government. A lot of money is spent on election propaganda. Millions of money is spent on the sessions of the national and provincial legislatures. Carlyle said the parliament as a ‘Talking shop’. Italian dictator Mussolini could, therefore, correctly say that democracy is not suited to a poor country.
2) Weak and instable Government :
Democracy is a weak and instable type of government. In those countries where there are multiple party systems, the coalitions fall frequently and bring instability in the government. For ex; In India 1977 to 79; 1989 to 1991; 1996 to 1999 coalition governments failed to rule the government with stable.
3) Government by the minority :
In practical Democracy does not represent majority opinion. Actually Democracy is said to be government by the majority. This claim on behalf of democracy is not sustainable. In every state a large number of people never exercise their vote. Besides, in most democratic states the first-past-the-post electoral system prevails (majority vote system). Under this system it often happens that the party securing a minority vote is returned to power. The number of votes secured by the party in power is less than those obtained by the opposition. Democracy thus ceases to be government by the majority.
4) Discouragement to culture, civilization and intellectual development :
Democracy is the government by masses and always have conservative outlook. They show no interest in the development of literature, art and architecture. In Democracy intellectuals always keeps distance from elections. So many examples are in history defeat of intellectuals in direct elections.
5) Slow decision making :
Democracy is slow decision making government. Because it takes lot of time to take decision. It delays the work. Legislature process, party system, opposition parties, coalition politics plays key role in decision making in Democratic governments.
Question 3.
What is direct democracy and mention its devices?
Answer:
Devices Direct Democracy: There are four devices prescribed in direct democracies to enable the people to participate directly in the administrative activities of the State. Those are 1. Referendum 2. Initiative 3. Recall and 4. Plebiscite
These methods may be explained as follows.
1) Referendum :
It is one of the direct democratic devices. Literally it means, “must be referred to the people”. It is a device where by the electorate may veto a proposed legislation or a bill which the legislature has already passed. In other words, bills passed by the legislature are the voters for their approval or disapproval. If majority of the voters approve them, they become acts. But if they vote against them, they will be given up. Hence, referendum is known as “Popular Veto”. It is of two types – 1) Compulsory referendum : All the constitutional bills must be sent to the people. 2) Optional Referendum : An ordinary bill passed by the legislative may be or may not be sent to the people. However, even that ordinary bill must be sent to the people, if a definite number of people demand it. Ex: In Switzerland 30,000 people or eight cantons (States) can demand referendum on an ordinary bill.
2) Initiative :
It is another device of direct democracy. It is a method by means of which the people propose legislation i.e.; they can ask the legislature to pass a particular law. For instance, in Switzerland, if 50,000 voters request the legislature to pass a law, then the proposal is submitted to the consideration of the people. If majority of the people (30,000) approve it, then it becomes an act. Unlike referendum, initiative provides a chance to the people to start the making of law. It is of two types : (1) Formulative Initiative : People present a bill to the legislature (2) Unformulative Initiative : People present a demand to the legislature as king it to pass a bill.
3) Re Call :
It is another device of Direct Democracy. It means “Calling Back”. According to this method a specific number of voters may call back or dismiss an elected officer or a member of the legislature before the expiry of his term, if he is irresponsible. By means of this, the people can remove a representative or an officer from office when he fails to discharge his duties properly.
4) Plebiscite :
The term ‘Plebiscite” is derived from a French word “Plebiscitum”, which means “decree of the people”. It is used to obtain the opinion of the people on an important political issue or when there is a dispute regarding some territory. The question of accession or secession or territory is generally solved by means of plebiscite. It is not concerned with legislation. It is not apart of legal process. It is only a democratic method of ascertaining the opinion of the people on any political issue of public importance.
Question 4.
What is the role of public opinion in Democracy?
Answer:
The term public opinion was coined by philosopher John Locke in the 17th century. In the middle ages, the saying Vox populi; Vox Dei which, means voice of the people is the voice of God gained prominence.
Definitions of Public Opinion :
1) Lord Bryce :
“Public opinion is commonly used to denote the aggregate of the views men hold regarding the community”.
2) R.G.Gettel :
“Public opinion is the opinion formed by a small group of leaders, which will be accepted by individuals as they have neither the knowledge nor the time nor the interest to enable them to form opinions of their own”.
Role of Public Opinion in Democracy :
The term ‘public opinion’ was coined by philosopher John Locke in the 17th century. However, the concept itself predates Locke. Vox Populi or voice of the people’ is a similar Latin concept. Today, public opinion is defined in the following way : collective evaluations expressed by people on political issues, policies, institutions and individuals.
Public opinion changes policy through passive observations that accumulate amongst citizens. Public opinion is important in a democracy because the people are the ultimate source of political power.
In theory, a government official has to take public opinion into account whilst deciding on a future course of action. Political parties must maintain a certain level of positive public opinion which is subject to a certain measure of manipulation through mass media and other sources and used to maintain the status quo. That is, however, not to say that public opinion, itself should be considered a ‘positive social function’.
It is important to understand the factors that shape public opinion as a whole. These include social class, education, region, age, gender and ethnic group. Society is not a homogeneous whole. It is made up of components. Each component faces different challenges in its functioning, therefore, members of each component view the world differently.
A state is built upon the consent of the members of society. A constitution is drafted by the collective will of the people. Just as the state and the constitution are vital organic constructs, so is the primary method of informing them: public opinion. Many governments, in one way or the other, try to influence the public by promoting its policies or actions through the mass media.
Question 5.
Explain any four essential conditions for the success of Democracy.
Answer:
1) Sound system of Education :
The success of democracy requires adequate education for the citizens. Ignorance, innocence and under education prevent them from adopting right attitudes and large-scale reforms. Education sharpens the intellect of individuals. It develops a proper understanding of various things. It makes the citizens vigilant. Besides, this enables them to assess and criticise the policies of government.
2) Enlightened Citizenship :
Enlightened citizens are an asset to the democratic state. They can excise proper vigilance. They can actively participate in public affairs and help their fellow citizens in the exercise of their rights and discharge of their reponsibilities. They extend co-operation to the government in all its good work.
3) Independent Press :
An independent press is a prerequisite of democracy. It enables the people to receive accurate and unbiased information regarding the activities of the government: It not only keeps the people in touch with government activities but also ventilates their grievances. It strives to promote harmonious relationship between the people and the government.
4) Strong Opposition :
The success of parliamentary democracy depends to a great extent on the strong and effective opposition. Such an opposition will act as a check against the government by pointing out its lapses. In this regard, the role of opposition in some advanced states like Australia, Britan and United States is liable. In India to the opposition parties performed great role in many times.
5) Decentralization of powers :
Decentralization of powers and establishment of democratic institutions at the grass roots level is indispensable for the healthy organisation of democratic institutions. The representative bodies at the grass roots level (as known as Panchayat Raj Institutions (PRIs) in India) will act as the mini legislatures. The residents of local areas will be able to know how to exercise their franchise.
6) Absence of economic disparities :
Democracy can not function smoothly when there are economic disparities in a country. When a country comprises a large number of poor people and a few wealthy persons, democracy could not work successfully.
7) Social Equality :
Social equality is another pre-requisite of democracy. Caste, class and racial differences will impede the healthy working of democracy. Such elements encourage of democratic polity. To be successful, democracy must open its doors to everybody on equal basis by providing equal social opportunities to all in social sphere. Social equality must not only be proclaimed but also be practiced.
8) Faith in democracy :
Certain democratic beliefs and values like individual’s worth, need for tolerance of differences, decisions through discussions etc., should be inculcated among the people.
9) Sagacious Leadership :
Sagacious leadership is another essential condition of democracy. Sagacious leaders, by dint’ of their administrative acumen, political propriety, social commitment and economic perspective, will be able to lead the democratic state to greater heights of glory.
10) Honesty and transparency :
Honest persons belonging to various walks life, when entrusted with major responsibilities of the government, will strive for the success of democracy. Similarly transparency in administration also acts- as a basic ingredient for the success of democracy.
11) Absence of militarism :
Democracy functions mostly in countries which are relatively free from militarism. In rules out the use of force and ” wes in the worth of individuals. It provides adequate opportunities to the people basing on worth, ablility and dedication militarism, on the other hand, demands concentration f authority and favours despotism.
Very Short Answer Questions
Question 1.
Define Democracy.
Answer:
Abraham Lincoln :
“Democracy is a government of the people, by the people and for the people”.
J.R. Seeley :
“Democracy is a government in which everyone has a share.”
Lord Bryce :
“Democracy is that form of government in which the ruling power of the state is vested not in a particular class but in the members of the community as a whole”.
Question 2.
What is indirect Democracy?
Answer:
Indirect Democracy :
Indirect democracy is also known as representative democracy. In this type of democracy a clear distinction is made between the immediate sovereign and the ultimate sovereign. The legislature which consists of the elected representatives of the people formulates and expresses the will of the state. Hence, the legislature is the immediate sovereign authority.
In this type of democracy the people elect their representatives periodically and review their activities during their full term. If their activities are proved to be unsatisfactory, the people can with draw their trust in them and choose new representatives. Representative democracy thus combines efficient administration with popular sovereignty. In representative democracy the parties articulate and organize the will of the people and act as the transmission belt between the government and the governed. In a representative democracy the ultimate source of authority remains the people.
Question 3.
What is direct Democracy?
Answer:
Direct democracy is a system of government in which people directly participate in the activities of the State and the Government. The people directly express their views on the government policies. Direct democratic methods are four. They are Referendum, Plebiscite, Initiative and Recall.
Question 4.
What is recall?
Answer:
Recall means To call back. The representatives will be called back by the people in case they are inefficient. Hence, this method helps the representatives in discharging their responsibilities properly for fear of being called back on the grounds of inefficiency.
Question 5.
What is plebiscite?
Answer:
Plebiscite means ascertaining public opinion on certain important issues. This is not applicable to the laws and the Constitution. People’s verdict is sought on certain public problems and policies of the government. This method was first used in 1804 by Napoleon in France.
Question 6.
What are Referendum?
Answer:
Referendum means ‘Refer to’. This method is used to ascertain the public opinion on important legislation. In some regions, the public opinion is sought on the problems of constitutional law and ordinary law. This is called referendum. Referendum is of two types. They are i) Compulsory referendum ii) Optional referendum.
Question 7.
What is initiative?
Answer:
Initiative is a request made by the people to the legislature in framing a law on certain national problem or policy as such. After making the law, the same shall be presented for referendum. In this aspect, people in a specified number present a petition in written form to the legislature proposing a legislation. It is also of two kinds. They are i) Formulative initiative ii) Non-formulative initiative.
Question 8.
What is public opinion?
Answer:
Public opinion occupies an important place in democratic states. People express their opinion in times of elections or through the legislatures. They obey and follow those laws which are formulated in accordance with the public opinion. If the government acts against the wishes of people it has to face the consequences. Public opinion keeps the government responsible and responsive. It keeps the government alert and vigilant in its functioning.