Question

According to Zakaria, democracy has not always fulfilled its promises. Discuss what this means identifying each difficulty, using multiple examples to illustrate your point and suggest ways in which governments across the globe could strengthen democracy.

Answer 1

ANSWER:

GIVEN THAT:

THE DEMOCRACY HAS NOT ALWAYS FULFILLED ITS PROMISES:

A. Democracy :

1. Itis good form of government but like everything it also has few flaws. Few of them are listed below-

B. Populism:

1. In democracy elections are held and one wins on the basis of majority.

2. In reality the candidate who is more popular will win rather than the one who is wisest, smartest and intelligent.

3. For example if we get to choose between a famous singer or a new young economist, we are mostly likely to choose singer.

C. Shortsightedness:

1. Politians are elected for 5 years and hence they implement policies taking into account short term gains.

2. Long term perspective is not taken into account.

D. Selfish:

1. Citizens and politicians are both selfish. They tend to maximise their personal gains and not society's gain.

2. For example we also tend to favor policies which benefits us or may harm the society.

E. Equal:

1. Democracy is based on the notion that everybody is equal.

2. But this is not true. For example- women-men, black-white and poor-rich are not equal.

3. Women are physically weak and hence need more protection than men.

F. Ways to solve probelms in democracy:

1. The notion that everyone is equal should be abondoned.

2. Weaker sections of the society should be given special attention.

3. Policies should be formulated with long term perspective.

4. Equal opportunities should be given to all the candidates.