5. Outcomes of Democracy

5. Outcomes of Democracy

  • 5

    Outcomes Of Democracy

    This section examines the expected and actual outcomes of democracy, focusing on its impact on government quality, economic well-being, social inequality, and individual freedoms.

  • 5.1

    How Do We Assess Democracy’s Outcomes?

    This section explores the expected and actual outcomes of democracy in relation to governance, economic performance, equity, social diversity, and individual dignity.

  • 5.2

    Accountable, Responsive And Legitimate Government

    This section discusses the essential characteristics of a democracy, emphasizing the need for government accountability, responsiveness, and legitimacy to meet citizens' expectations.

  • 5.3

    Economic Growth And Development

    This section discusses the relationship between democracy and economic growth, revealing that while dictatorships may exhibit slightly higher growth rates, this does not undermine the overall benefits of democratic governance.

  • 5.4

    Reduction Of Inequality And Poverty

    Democracies are expected to reduce economic disparities and improve the living standards of all citizens, though this ideal is often not met in practice.

  • 5.5

    Accommodation Of Social Diversity

    This section discusses how democracies accommodate social diversity, emphasizing the need for mutual respect and mechanisms to resolve conflicts among different groups.

  • 5.6

    Dignity And Freedom Of The Citizens

    Democracy promotes dignity and freedom for individuals, recognizing their equal status and striving to eliminate social inequalities.

  • 5.7

    Exercises

    This section presents exercises related to the outcomes of democracy, assessing students' understanding and application of democratic principles.

    • Key Summary

    The chapter explores the outcomes of democracy, assessing what can be reasonably expected from democratic governance. It addresses the dichotomy between the ideal of democracy and its practical applications, including accountability, responsiveness, and social equity. The analysis includes an examination of economic growth, social inequality, and the accommodation of social diversity within democratic frameworks.

    Key Takeaways

    • Democracy should produce accountable and responsive governments.
    • Democracy's success is measured not just by elections but by how effectively it addresses economic disparities.
    • An ideal democratic society accommodates diverse social groups and promotes equal dignity and freedom.

    Key Concepts

    • Accountability: The principle that government officials are responsible to the citizens for their actions and decisions.
    • Economic Development: The process by which a nation's wealth increases and the economic well-being of its citizens improves.
    • Social Diversity: The presence of various social groups within a society, which should be respected and managed under democratic governance.
    • Inequality: The unequal distribution of resources and opportunities among different social groups.
    • Democratic Legitimacy: The acceptance and recognition of a government as valid and just based on its democratic foundations.