DEMOCRACY AND AUTHORITARIANISM

  

Q1. Explain Democracy and its key characteristics. 

Democracy is a form of government in which power rests with the people, who exercise it either directly or through their elected representatives. It is based on the principles of equality, freedom, and popular participation.

Key Characteristics of Democracy:

1. Free and Fair Elections – Leaders are chosen through regular elections.
2. Universal Adult Franchise – Every adult citizen has the right to vote.
3. Rule of Law – Law applies equally to all citizens.
4. Independent Judiciary – Courts protect constitutional rights.
5. Fundamental Rights – Freedom of speech, expression, and association.
6. Free Press – Media acts as a watchdog.
7. Political Opposition – Multiple parties compete for power.

In countries like India, democracy has helped maintain unity despite vast diversity. Though decision-making may be slow, democracy ensures accountability and long-term stability.

 

Q2. What is Authoritarianism? Discuss its merits and demerits. Authoritarianism is a system of government in which power is concentrated in the hands of a single leader or a small group, and political freedoms are limited.

Merits of Authoritarianism:

• Quick decision-making
• Strong control over administration
• Useful during emergencies
• Ensures order and discipline

Demerits of Authoritarianism:

• Suppression of dissent
• Violation of human rights
• Lack of accountability
• Abuse of power

Historical examples such as Nazi Germany show how excessive concentration of power can lead to disastrous consequences. While authoritarianism may appear efficient, it undermines democratic values.

 

Q3. Compare Democracy and Authoritarianism. 

Democracy and authoritarianism represent two contrasting forms of governance.

Basis	Democracy	Authoritarianism
Power	With people	With ruler
Elections	Free & fair	Limited or absent
Rights	Protected	Restricted
Media	Free	Controlled
Accountability	High	Low

Democracy encourages participation and accountability, while authoritarianism focuses on control and efficiency. History proves that democracy provides sustainable governance, whereas authoritarianism offers only temporary stability.

 

Q4. Explain Democracy and Authoritarianism. Compare their features, merits, and demerits with suitable examples.

Democracy and authoritarianism are two major forms of government that differ significantly in structure, functioning, and values.

Democracy:

Democracy is a system in which people are the ultimate source of political power. Citizens participate in governance through elections and enjoy fundamental rights.

Features of Democracy:

• Free and fair elections
• Rule of law
• Independent judiciary
• Freedom of speech and press

Merits:

• Protects human rights
• Ensures accountability
• Encourages political awareness

Demerits:

• Slow decision-making
• Political instability
• Possibility of corruption

Authoritarianism:

Authoritarianism is a system where power is centralized and political freedoms are restricted.

Features of Authoritarianism:

• Concentration of power
• Suppression of opposition
• Controlled media
• Limited civil liberties

Merits:

• Fast decision-making
• Strong administration

Demerits:

• Abuse of power
• Human rights violations

Countries like India represent democratic governance, while North Korea illustrates authoritarian rule. Overall, democracy is more suitable for protecting freedom and ensuring long-term stability.

 

Q5. Discuss Democracy explains India’s political experience, including the Emergency period.

India adopted democracy after independence in 1947, making it the world’s largest democratic nation. The Indian Constitution guarantees fundamental rights, universal adult franchise, and parliamentary governance.

Democratic Features in India:

• Regular elections
• Independent judiciary
• Free press
• Active opposition

However, India experienced a brief authoritarian phase during the Emergency (1975–1977) under Indira Gandhi.

Features of the Emergency:

• Suspension of Fundamental Rights
• Press censorship
• Arrest of opposition leaders
• Centralisation of power

The Emergency demonstrated the dangers of authoritarian tendencies. In 1977, people restored democracy through elections, proving the strength of democratic institutions in India.

 

Q6. “Democracy is superior to Authoritarianism.” Justify the statement with examples.

Democracy is widely considered superior to authoritarianism due to its emphasis on freedom, accountability, and participation.

In a democracy, citizens actively participate in decision-making, enjoy civil liberties, and can change governments peacefully. Countries such as India and United States demonstrate how democracy supports diversity and stability.

In contrast, authoritarian regimes like Nazi Germany suppressed opposition and violated human rights, leading to instability and suffering.

Though authoritarianism may offer quick decisions, democracy ensures long-term peace, development, and respect for human dignity. Therefore, democracy is superior to authoritarianism.