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Direct democracy and representative democracy each have benefits and drawbacks when it comes to citizen participation and decision-making. Direct democracy allows for more direct citizen control and involvement in government through regular voting on issues, as was seen with Scotland's 2014 independence referendum. However, direct democracy is largely seen as impractical for modern states except in small communities. Representative democracy is a more indirect but manageable system where citizens elect representatives to make decisions, as is the case in the UK. While this can reduce direct participation, it allows for specialization and more stable governance. Political theorists like Rousseau supported more direct democracy, while others like Schumpeter felt representative democracy a workable compromise between participation and expertise in governance.

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Democracy 1. What is democracy? 2. Is democracy a good or bad system? Why?
What you will learn… Success Criteria – I can… • Define the concept of democracy • Describe the different types of democracy • Summarise Democracy’s key ideas in an essay
“government of the people, by the people, for the people” (Abraham Lincoln 1863)
What is democracy? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u6jgWxkbR7A
What is Democracy? The origins of the term ‘democracy’ can be traced back to Ancient Greece and is derived from the Greek word ‘Kratos’, meaning power or rule. Democracy therefore means ‘rule by the demos’ (demos referring to ‘the people’). The conversion of politicians and political thinkers to the cause of democracy has been one of the most dramatic events in political history. Even in Ancient Greece (often thought of as the cradle of democratic idea) Democracy tended to be viewed in NEGATIVE terms i.e. Thinkers such as PLATO and ARISTOTLE viewed democracy as a system of rule by the masses at the EXPENSE of wisdom and property. Well into the 19th Century, the term ‘Democracy’ continued to have pejorative implications suggesting a system of ‘mob rule’.
Two Key Types of Democracy 1. Direct Democracy – the people vote on every issue directly 2. Representative Democracy – the people elect representatives to vote on issues on their behalf
StJosephland Direct Democracy • The leader asks every citizen (660) to vote on every decision • Citizens must come to vote on every issue • Citizens must be involved in every decision whether it is important to them or not • Citizens must vote many times a day Representative Democracy • The leader asks every citizen (660) to elect year group leaders once a year • Leaders should come to vote on every issue • Citizens don’t need to be involved • Citizens can get on with their daily business
REPRESENTATIVE DEMOCRACY This means we ELECT officials to represent us and make decisions on our behalf. We elect MPs to represent us in the British Parliament, Councillors to represent us in local authorities, MEPs to represent us in the European Parliament, and MSPs to represent us at Holyrood In some Cities across the UK, Mayors are elected too! Democracy in the UK
You have been provided with reading with regards to the features of direct and representative democracy. This also covers pros and cons of each. Complete the reading and add to two mind maps in your notes. We will discuss your findings and add to your notes over the next couple of lessons. STARTER Representative Democracy Direct Democracy
Direct Democracy 1. The Government by the people is often referred to as direct democracy: ‘a system where everyone is allowed to take part in law and decision-making’ (Cordell). Therefore, citizens make the decisions and are expected to participate fully in the political process. For example: Athens in ancient Greece about 500 BC, when all free men were entitled to attend forums to approve policies. However, women, children, slaves or those born outside Athens were excluded. Therefore, citizens were only Athens-born men, of a pure Athenian stock.
Direct Democracy key features Direct, constant and unhampered involvement of people in political life No formal distinction between the people and the government, they are in practice one and the same. There are no professional politicians It can be described as a system of self-government Politics is constant: permanently consultative and active
Direct Democracy In a DIRECT democracy (such as the one which operated in Ancient Athens) citizens voted on every issue which concerns them. This idea of direct democracy is often considered ‘unworkable’ in modern states and only really continues to exist in a few places, for example; township meetings in New England or the Cantons of Switzerland. However, direct democracy does exist to an extent in the form of referenda (or propositions in the USA) In 2011, UK voters had a referendum on whether to change the voting system to AV (Alternative Vote) In 2014, Scottish voters had a referendum on whether Scotland should be an independent country In 2016 UK voters had a referendum on whether the UK should remain part of the European Union.
Direct Democracy Current Examples Although Switzerland is not a true direct democracy, any law that is passed by the national legislative branch can be vetoed by the general public if put to a public vote. Additionally, citizens can directly petition to change the Constitution through a direct vote on an amendment. In some districts of Switzerland, they still have Landsgemeinde, or assemblies, where people assemble in open air on a certain day to decide and vote on the laws of their society. This makes Switzerland the most prominent modern democracy to use elements of direct democracy.
Direct Democracy Who are the People? The ‘people’ is now accepted as meaning almost all adult citizens, who can be viewed as one body with a common or collective interest. This is close to Rousseau’s ideas of a ‘general will’. But divisions and disagreements exist in all communities, so ‘the people’ can also mean ‘the majority’. Democracy can come close to being ‘majority rule’ reflecting the ‘tyranny of the majority’.
Direct Democracy Summary Box Direct Democracy is based on the direct, unmediated and continuous participation of citizens in the tasks of government. Direct Democracy therefore removes the distinction between government and the governed. It is seen as a system of popular self- government and was achieved in Ancient Athens through a form of Mass Meeting.
Advantages and Disadvantages Task Consider the following questions: What are the benefits of direct democracy? What are the pitfalls? You have 5 mins, on your own, to note down as many advantages and disadvantages as you can.
Starter- What are the most important reasons in favour of Direct Democracy? Most Important Least Important
Advantages of Direct Democracy (also known as ‘Features’) You will be given a sheet with features of direct democracy as well as a list of political theorists who advocate for and against the two types for Direct or Representative democracy. We will discuss these as a class. This will help you with your essay.
Advantage of Direct Democracy 1: Heightens Control One benefit of direct democracy is that… This means that… An example of this is…. However… Mini Conclusion Therefore…
Advantage of Direct Democracy 2: Politicises citizens One benefit of direct democracy is that… This means that… For example…. However… Mini Conclusion Therefore…
Advantage of Direct Democracy 3: Public don’t have to rely on self- serving politicians One benefit of direct democracy is that… This means that… For example…. However… Mini Conclusion Therefore…
Advantage of Direct Democracy 4: Legitimacy One benefit of direct democracy is that… This means that… For example…. However… Mini Conclusion Therefore…
Problems with Direct Democracy The most influential critic of direct democracy was the philosopher Plato. Plato attacked the principle of political equality on the grounds that the mass of people possess neither the wisdom nor experience to rule wisely on their own behalf. Plato was essentially arguing that the ‘masses’ don’t know what is best for them. The principle drawback of Athenian democracy was that it could operate only by excluding the mass of the population from political activity.
What have you learned? 1. What is the difference between Direct and Representative Democracy? 2. What type of democracy do we have in the UK? How does it work? 3. Give an example of Direct Democracy in the UK in the last 10 years. 4. Why do some people say Direct Democracy is ‘unworkable’?
Direct Democracy Examples 1. In Ancient Athens, direct democracy was used. All male Athenian citizens would meet regularly and vote on issues which concerned them, including laws. 2. In small cantons of Switzerland, citizens have been allowed to take part in direct democracy 3. In New England in the USA, small townships use direct democracy to make decisions 4. In the UK, Referenda have been used in 2011, 2014, 2016 to decide on important issues such as Scottish Independence
Representative Democracy In the UK and most democracies, we have representative democracy; we elect people to make decisions on our behalf. In the UK we do not elect everyone who makes decisions – the USA elects a lot more than we do. They Work for You
Or do they? • Party whips • Outside interests • Themselves
Party whips The Chief Whip is responsible for administering the whipping system that ensures that members of the party attend and vote in Parliament as the party leadership desires. Whips are MPs or Lords appointed by each party in Parliament to help organise their party’s contribution to parliamentary business. One of their responsibilities is making sure the maximum number of their party members vote, and vote the way their party wants.
Party whips ‘The Whip’ refers to a document sent out weekly to MPs detailing the forthcoming business of the House. Items are underlined once, twice or three times to indicate their importance to the party leadership. When a ‘three-line’ whip is issued, the leadership is letting MPs know that it expects them to turn up and vote on the matter under discussion! An MP who ignores or disobeys the party whip will have his/her promotion chances diminished and ultimately runs the risk of being suspended from the parliamentary party and being de-selected as a future parliamentary candidate.
Outside interests? MPs and members of the House of Lords are required to declare certain financial interests. These are recorded in the Register of Members' Financial Interests and the Register of Lords' Interests respectively. In 2015 an investigation by the Daily Telegraph newspaper discovered that MPs declared earnings of more than £7.4 million from outside work and second jobs, with some making more than £1,600 per hour. Gordon Brown, the former prime minister, declared additional income of close to £1 million (speech writing and consultancy- although all donated to charity!), followed by Geoffrey Cox, the Conservative MP, who declared earnings of £820,000 — 12 times the annual MP wage due to his work as a Barrister. Do these ‘outside interests’ influence how MPs behave as MPs? Cash for Access?
Themselves? A conscience vote or free vote is a type of vote where MPs are allowed to vote according to their own personal conscience rather than according to an official line set down by the party Whip. Free votes have traditionally been allowed on ethical issues that are seen as a matter of conscience. In 2015 Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn granted Labour MPs a free vote on UK air strikes in Syria.
Representative Democracy Examples 1. In Britain, every 5 years a General Election takes place. The public elect representatives known as MPs to make decisions on their behalf in the UK Parliament. 2. In Scotland, every 4 years a Scottish Parliament Election takes place. The public elect representatives known as MSPs to make decisions on devolved matters in the Scottish Parliament, Holyrood.
Representative Democracy Summary Box Representative Democracy is a more limited and indirect form of democracy. Participation in government is infrequent and brief, e.g. through voting in elections, the most important feature of representation. In a representative democracy the ‘public’ do not exercise power themselves, they select (elect) those who will rule on their behalf. This form of rule is only democratic because choosing a representative forms an effective link between the government and the governed.
Advantages of Representative Democracy (also known as ‘Features’)
Advantage of Representative Democracy 1: It is manageable One benefit of representative democracy is that… This means that… An example of this is…. However… Mini Conclusion Therefore…
Advantage of Representative Democracy 2: It creates a Division of Labour One benefit of representative democracy is that… This means that… An example of this is…. However… Mini Conclusion Therefore…
Advantage of Representative Democracy 3: It uses Expertise & Experience One benefit of representative democracy is that… This means that… An example of this is…. However… Mini Conclusion Therefore…
Advantage of Representative Democracy 4: It provides Stability, Compromise & Accountability One benefit of representative democracy is that… This means that… An example of this is…. However… Mini Conclusion Therefore…
Starter  Give one feature of direct democracy  Give one feature of representative democracy
Democracy Theorists For a 12 or 20 mark essay in the democracy topic, you are expected to refer to the ideas of political theorists You should understand what these theorists have said about democracy, and the extent to which they support democracy
what do they mean? 1. Read through the Theorists’ views on democracy, highlighting Key Points 2. Then copy and Complete the table on the next slide, using your own words as much as possible to summarise their arguments/ thoughts on democracy
Theorist Views on Democracy Plato Ancient Greek philosopher – said the State was a ship and we need experts to steer it Believed true democracy was dangerous as it put inexperienced people in control – ‘in a democracy fathers and sons change places’ Macchiavelli Thomas Hobbes John Locke Jean Jacques Rousseau John Stuart Mill
Theorists who support direct democracy • Jean Jacques Rousseau argued that elections were not good and that people were only ‘free’ when they participate directly and continuously in shaping their community • Alexis de Tocqueville argued that popular elections do not guarantee that wise and experienced people hold public office Theorists who support representative democracy • Joseph Schumpeter considered representative democracy a credible solution to the problem of most people simply not having the time or expertise to be able to continuously engage in complex political debate. • Robert Dahl argued that competitive elections prevent any permanent elite emerging and ensure wide access to the political process • Plato said that experts were needed to ‘steer the ship’ and direct democracy was ‘sons leading fathers’
20 mark Question basically will ask if one system is superior to the other
Mark Breakdown Intro – 2 Knowledge – 8 (max 5 for only description or only examples) Analysis – 6 Conclusion – 4 (separate or throughout)
Intro • Background – what is democracy/ how does it work/ type of system/ describe direct & representative democracy • Factors - ^^ Political Theorists have identified a number of benefits of direct democracy such as… (list) • Argument – It can be argued that the benefits of direct democracy ARE/ ARE NOT far superior to those for representative because…(justify)
Paragraphs DIRECT DEMOCRACY 1. Heightens control 2. Politicises citizens 3. Don’t have to rely on self- serving politicians 4. Ensures legitimacy REPRESENTATIVE DEMOCRACY 1. Is more manageable/ practicable 2. Creates a Division of labour 3. Provides experience and expertise 4. Ensures accountability. Stability and compromise
Paragraphs Paragraph Structure 1. Topic sentence ‘One key feature of direct democracy is… 2. Knowledge – Describe the feature in detail 3. Example – use an example that backs this up 4. Analyse – ‘Therefore it can be argued that direct democracy’… 5. Comparison – In contrast, it can be argued that Representative democracy (now repeat steps 2-4 for this feature 6. Mini conclusion – ‘Overall, it is clear that the direct/ representative democracy is superior because.. (provide Highly detailed evidence to support) You must include a Theorist's view in at least two paragraphs!
Example Paragraph One key feature of direct democracy is that it heightens control. This means that citizens are directly involved in decision making on matters which directly affect them and therefore those participating in this purest form of democracy are ultimately shaping their own destiny in regular participation in voting directly on matters which concern them. For example, in 2014 Scottish citizens were able to directly participate in deciding Scotland’s future when they participated in a referendum on whether Scotland should be an independent country, this was seen as too important a decision to be taken by representatives. Therefore it can be argued that direct democracy is advantageous because it allows citizens to have a direct say in matter which affect their daily lives. In contrast, It can be argued that Representative democracy is more manageable and practicable in a modern democracy like the UK where it is not seen as realistic to consult an electorate of 45 million citizens on every issue that concerns them. For example, in Ancient Athens it is estimated that only around 40,000 males participated in Direct Democracy due to the small scale of the city compared to present day so direct democracy was a more realistic possibility in Ancient Greece. Therefore it can be argued that representative democracy is far more manageable and feasible when presented with a large electorate and it is not realistic to ask citizens to vote regularly on every matter which concerns them. Theorist Joseph Schumpeter considered representative democracy a credible solution to the problem of most people simply not having the time or expertise to be able to continuously engage in complex political debate. Overall, it is clear that representative democracy is superior because although direct democracy can give citizens more direct influence in decision making it is completely impractical to involve every citizen in a large modern state in every decision made which affects them. Direct democracy is unworkable and unmanageable in most modern states today due to the number of adults enfranchised. In the USA for example more than 146 million voters are registered and it is not feasible to involve every one in decision making directly, although it may be more workable in smaller areas such as New England townships.
Conclusion 1) In conclusion, it is clear that both Direct and Representative democracy offer advantages to citizens. 2) On the one hand… (summarise advantages of direct democracy here) On the other hand… (summarise advantages of representative democracy here) 3) Overall, it is clear that the benefits of _____ democracy are far superior because…. This is also the case because… Therefore it is clear that ______ democracy is superior.
Churchill is saying democracy is far better than any other form of government
12 mark Question – 2015 Paper Plan; Pick 3 or 4 advantages/ features of Direct Democracy Short Intro and conclusion for Good Practice Refer to at least one theorist
12 mark Responses Analyse… or Evaluate… or Compare Component Marks Knowledge i.e. description, explanation, example 8 Analysis & Evaluation It can be argued that… It is clear that… However… 4
Intro Sentence 1 – Background of democracy – what is it, what does it mean etc. Sentence 2 – List the things you will discuss ‘this essay will discuss…’
Paragraphs 1. Heightens control 2. Politicises citizens 3. Don’t have to rely on self- serving politicians 4. Ensures legitimacy Paragraph Structure Topic sentence ‘One key feature of direct democracy is… Knowledge – Describe the feature in detail Example – use an example that backs this up Analyse – ‘it can be argued that… OR ‘However, it may be argued that… You must include a Theorist's view in at least one paragraph!
Conclusion – good practice • In conclusion, the key features of Direct Democracy are… (list). It is clear that Direct democracy can help … (give a brief advantage) however it may be argued that (give a brief disadvantage)
1. Analyse the key features of Representative Democracy. In your answer you should refer to the work of at least one theorist. 12 For Direct Democracy you would sue the same structure that is on the next slide, with different features.
Analyse the key features of Representative Democracy. In your answer you should refer to the work of at least one theorist. 12 Short intro 1. Practicable/ manageable 2. Creates a division of labour 3. Uses expertise and experience 4. Provides stability accountability and compromise Short conclusion Paragraph Structure Topic sentence ‘One key feature of representative democracy is… Knowledge – Describe the feature in detail Example – use an example that backs this up Analyse – ‘it can be argued that… OR ‘However, it may be argued that… You must include a Theorist's view in at least one paragraph!

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DC

  • 1.
    Democracy 1. What isdemocracy? 2. Is democracy a good or bad system? Why?
  • 2.
    What you will learn… SuccessCriteria – I can… • Define the concept of democracy • Describe the different types of democracy • Summarise Democracy’s key ideas in an essay
  • 3.
    “government of thepeople, by the people, for the people” (Abraham Lincoln 1863)
  • 4.
  • 5.
    What is Democracy? Theorigins of the term ‘democracy’ can be traced back to Ancient Greece and is derived from the Greek word ‘Kratos’, meaning power or rule. Democracy therefore means ‘rule by the demos’ (demos referring to ‘the people’). The conversion of politicians and political thinkers to the cause of democracy has been one of the most dramatic events in political history. Even in Ancient Greece (often thought of as the cradle of democratic idea) Democracy tended to be viewed in NEGATIVE terms i.e. Thinkers such as PLATO and ARISTOTLE viewed democracy as a system of rule by the masses at the EXPENSE of wisdom and property. Well into the 19th Century, the term ‘Democracy’ continued to have pejorative implications suggesting a system of ‘mob rule’.
  • 6.
    Two Key Typesof Democracy 1. Direct Democracy – the people vote on every issue directly 2. Representative Democracy – the people elect representatives to vote on issues on their behalf
  • 7.
    StJosephland Direct Democracy • Theleader asks every citizen (660) to vote on every decision • Citizens must come to vote on every issue • Citizens must be involved in every decision whether it is important to them or not • Citizens must vote many times a day Representative Democracy • The leader asks every citizen (660) to elect year group leaders once a year • Leaders should come to vote on every issue • Citizens don’t need to be involved • Citizens can get on with their daily business
  • 8.
    REPRESENTATIVE DEMOCRACY This meanswe ELECT officials to represent us and make decisions on our behalf. We elect MPs to represent us in the British Parliament, Councillors to represent us in local authorities, MEPs to represent us in the European Parliament, and MSPs to represent us at Holyrood In some Cities across the UK, Mayors are elected too! Democracy in the UK
  • 9.
    You have beenprovided with reading with regards to the features of direct and representative democracy. This also covers pros and cons of each. Complete the reading and add to two mind maps in your notes. We will discuss your findings and add to your notes over the next couple of lessons. STARTER Representative Democracy Direct Democracy
  • 10.
    Direct Democracy 1. TheGovernment by the people is often referred to as direct democracy: ‘a system where everyone is allowed to take part in law and decision-making’ (Cordell). Therefore, citizens make the decisions and are expected to participate fully in the political process. For example: Athens in ancient Greece about 500 BC, when all free men were entitled to attend forums to approve policies. However, women, children, slaves or those born outside Athens were excluded. Therefore, citizens were only Athens-born men, of a pure Athenian stock.
  • 11.
    Direct Democracy keyfeatures Direct, constant and unhampered involvement of people in political life No formal distinction between the people and the government, they are in practice one and the same. There are no professional politicians It can be described as a system of self-government Politics is constant: permanently consultative and active
  • 12.
    Direct Democracy In aDIRECT democracy (such as the one which operated in Ancient Athens) citizens voted on every issue which concerns them. This idea of direct democracy is often considered ‘unworkable’ in modern states and only really continues to exist in a few places, for example; township meetings in New England or the Cantons of Switzerland. However, direct democracy does exist to an extent in the form of referenda (or propositions in the USA) In 2011, UK voters had a referendum on whether to change the voting system to AV (Alternative Vote) In 2014, Scottish voters had a referendum on whether Scotland should be an independent country In 2016 UK voters had a referendum on whether the UK should remain part of the European Union.
  • 13.
    Direct Democracy Current Examples AlthoughSwitzerland is not a true direct democracy, any law that is passed by the national legislative branch can be vetoed by the general public if put to a public vote. Additionally, citizens can directly petition to change the Constitution through a direct vote on an amendment. In some districts of Switzerland, they still have Landsgemeinde, or assemblies, where people assemble in open air on a certain day to decide and vote on the laws of their society. This makes Switzerland the most prominent modern democracy to use elements of direct democracy.
  • 15.
    Direct Democracy Who arethe People? The ‘people’ is now accepted as meaning almost all adult citizens, who can be viewed as one body with a common or collective interest. This is close to Rousseau’s ideas of a ‘general will’. But divisions and disagreements exist in all communities, so ‘the people’ can also mean ‘the majority’. Democracy can come close to being ‘majority rule’ reflecting the ‘tyranny of the majority’.
  • 16.
    Direct Democracy Summary Box DirectDemocracy is based on the direct, unmediated and continuous participation of citizens in the tasks of government. Direct Democracy therefore removes the distinction between government and the governed. It is seen as a system of popular self- government and was achieved in Ancient Athens through a form of Mass Meeting.
  • 17.
    Advantages and Disadvantages Task Considerthe following questions: What are the benefits of direct democracy? What are the pitfalls? You have 5 mins, on your own, to note down as many advantages and disadvantages as you can.
  • 18.
    Starter- What are themost important reasons in favour of Direct Democracy? Most Important Least Important
  • 19.
    Advantages of Direct Democracy (alsoknown as ‘Features’) You will be given a sheet with features of direct democracy as well as a list of political theorists who advocate for and against the two types for Direct or Representative democracy. We will discuss these as a class. This will help you with your essay.
  • 20.
    Advantage of DirectDemocracy 1: Heightens Control One benefit of direct democracy is that… This means that… An example of this is…. However… Mini Conclusion Therefore…
  • 21.
    Advantage of DirectDemocracy 2: Politicises citizens One benefit of direct democracy is that… This means that… For example…. However… Mini Conclusion Therefore…
  • 22.
    Advantage of DirectDemocracy 3: Public don’t have to rely on self- serving politicians One benefit of direct democracy is that… This means that… For example…. However… Mini Conclusion Therefore…
  • 23.
    Advantage of DirectDemocracy 4: Legitimacy One benefit of direct democracy is that… This means that… For example…. However… Mini Conclusion Therefore…
  • 24.
    Problems with DirectDemocracy The most influential critic of direct democracy was the philosopher Plato. Plato attacked the principle of political equality on the grounds that the mass of people possess neither the wisdom nor experience to rule wisely on their own behalf. Plato was essentially arguing that the ‘masses’ don’t know what is best for them. The principle drawback of Athenian democracy was that it could operate only by excluding the mass of the population from political activity.
  • 25.
    What have youlearned? 1. What is the difference between Direct and Representative Democracy? 2. What type of democracy do we have in the UK? How does it work? 3. Give an example of Direct Democracy in the UK in the last 10 years. 4. Why do some people say Direct Democracy is ‘unworkable’?
  • 26.
    Direct Democracy Examples 1.In Ancient Athens, direct democracy was used. All male Athenian citizens would meet regularly and vote on issues which concerned them, including laws. 2. In small cantons of Switzerland, citizens have been allowed to take part in direct democracy 3. In New England in the USA, small townships use direct democracy to make decisions 4. In the UK, Referenda have been used in 2011, 2014, 2016 to decide on important issues such as Scottish Independence
  • 27.
    Representative Democracy In theUK and most democracies, we have representative democracy; we elect people to make decisions on our behalf. In the UK we do not elect everyone who makes decisions – the USA elects a lot more than we do. They Work for You
  • 28.
    Or do they? •Party whips • Outside interests • Themselves
  • 29.
    Party whips The ChiefWhip is responsible for administering the whipping system that ensures that members of the party attend and vote in Parliament as the party leadership desires. Whips are MPs or Lords appointed by each party in Parliament to help organise their party’s contribution to parliamentary business. One of their responsibilities is making sure the maximum number of their party members vote, and vote the way their party wants.
  • 30.
    Party whips ‘The Whip’refers to a document sent out weekly to MPs detailing the forthcoming business of the House. Items are underlined once, twice or three times to indicate their importance to the party leadership. When a ‘three-line’ whip is issued, the leadership is letting MPs know that it expects them to turn up and vote on the matter under discussion! An MP who ignores or disobeys the party whip will have his/her promotion chances diminished and ultimately runs the risk of being suspended from the parliamentary party and being de-selected as a future parliamentary candidate.
  • 31.
    Outside interests? MPs andmembers of the House of Lords are required to declare certain financial interests. These are recorded in the Register of Members' Financial Interests and the Register of Lords' Interests respectively. In 2015 an investigation by the Daily Telegraph newspaper discovered that MPs declared earnings of more than £7.4 million from outside work and second jobs, with some making more than £1,600 per hour. Gordon Brown, the former prime minister, declared additional income of close to £1 million (speech writing and consultancy- although all donated to charity!), followed by Geoffrey Cox, the Conservative MP, who declared earnings of £820,000 — 12 times the annual MP wage due to his work as a Barrister. Do these ‘outside interests’ influence how MPs behave as MPs? Cash for Access?
  • 32.
    Themselves? A conscience voteor free vote is a type of vote where MPs are allowed to vote according to their own personal conscience rather than according to an official line set down by the party Whip. Free votes have traditionally been allowed on ethical issues that are seen as a matter of conscience. In 2015 Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn granted Labour MPs a free vote on UK air strikes in Syria.
  • 33.
    Representative Democracy Examples 1. InBritain, every 5 years a General Election takes place. The public elect representatives known as MPs to make decisions on their behalf in the UK Parliament. 2. In Scotland, every 4 years a Scottish Parliament Election takes place. The public elect representatives known as MSPs to make decisions on devolved matters in the Scottish Parliament, Holyrood.
  • 34.
    Representative Democracy Summary Box RepresentativeDemocracy is a more limited and indirect form of democracy. Participation in government is infrequent and brief, e.g. through voting in elections, the most important feature of representation. In a representative democracy the ‘public’ do not exercise power themselves, they select (elect) those who will rule on their behalf. This form of rule is only democratic because choosing a representative forms an effective link between the government and the governed.
  • 35.
  • 36.
    Advantage of Representative Democracy1: It is manageable One benefit of representative democracy is that… This means that… An example of this is…. However… Mini Conclusion Therefore…
  • 37.
    Advantage of Representative Democracy2: It creates a Division of Labour One benefit of representative democracy is that… This means that… An example of this is…. However… Mini Conclusion Therefore…
  • 38.
    Advantage of Representative Democracy3: It uses Expertise & Experience One benefit of representative democracy is that… This means that… An example of this is…. However… Mini Conclusion Therefore…
  • 39.
    Advantage of RepresentativeDemocracy 4: It provides Stability, Compromise & Accountability One benefit of representative democracy is that… This means that… An example of this is…. However… Mini Conclusion Therefore…
  • 40.
    Starter  Give onefeature of direct democracy  Give one feature of representative democracy
  • 41.
    Democracy Theorists For a12 or 20 mark essay in the democracy topic, you are expected to refer to the ideas of political theorists You should understand what these theorists have said about democracy, and the extent to which they support democracy
  • 42.
    what do theymean? 1. Read through the Theorists’ views on democracy, highlighting Key Points 2. Then copy and Complete the table on the next slide, using your own words as much as possible to summarise their arguments/ thoughts on democracy
  • 43.
    Theorist Views onDemocracy Plato Ancient Greek philosopher – said the State was a ship and we need experts to steer it Believed true democracy was dangerous as it put inexperienced people in control – ‘in a democracy fathers and sons change places’ Macchiavelli Thomas Hobbes John Locke Jean Jacques Rousseau John Stuart Mill
  • 44.
    Theorists who support directdemocracy • Jean Jacques Rousseau argued that elections were not good and that people were only ‘free’ when they participate directly and continuously in shaping their community • Alexis de Tocqueville argued that popular elections do not guarantee that wise and experienced people hold public office Theorists who support representative democracy • Joseph Schumpeter considered representative democracy a credible solution to the problem of most people simply not having the time or expertise to be able to continuously engage in complex political debate. • Robert Dahl argued that competitive elections prevent any permanent elite emerging and ensure wide access to the political process • Plato said that experts were needed to ‘steer the ship’ and direct democracy was ‘sons leading fathers’
  • 45.
    20 mark Question basicallywill ask if one system is superior to the other
  • 46.
    Mark Breakdown Intro –2 Knowledge – 8 (max 5 for only description or only examples) Analysis – 6 Conclusion – 4 (separate or throughout)
  • 47.
    Intro • Background –what is democracy/ how does it work/ type of system/ describe direct & representative democracy • Factors - ^^ Political Theorists have identified a number of benefits of direct democracy such as… (list) • Argument – It can be argued that the benefits of direct democracy ARE/ ARE NOT far superior to those for representative because…(justify)
  • 48.
    Paragraphs DIRECT DEMOCRACY 1. Heightens control 2. Politicises citizens 3.Don’t have to rely on self- serving politicians 4. Ensures legitimacy REPRESENTATIVE DEMOCRACY 1. Is more manageable/ practicable 2. Creates a Division of labour 3. Provides experience and expertise 4. Ensures accountability. Stability and compromise
  • 49.
    Paragraphs Paragraph Structure 1. Topicsentence ‘One key feature of direct democracy is… 2. Knowledge – Describe the feature in detail 3. Example – use an example that backs this up 4. Analyse – ‘Therefore it can be argued that direct democracy’… 5. Comparison – In contrast, it can be argued that Representative democracy (now repeat steps 2-4 for this feature 6. Mini conclusion – ‘Overall, it is clear that the direct/ representative democracy is superior because.. (provide Highly detailed evidence to support) You must include a Theorist's view in at least two paragraphs!
  • 50.
    Example Paragraph One keyfeature of direct democracy is that it heightens control. This means that citizens are directly involved in decision making on matters which directly affect them and therefore those participating in this purest form of democracy are ultimately shaping their own destiny in regular participation in voting directly on matters which concern them. For example, in 2014 Scottish citizens were able to directly participate in deciding Scotland’s future when they participated in a referendum on whether Scotland should be an independent country, this was seen as too important a decision to be taken by representatives. Therefore it can be argued that direct democracy is advantageous because it allows citizens to have a direct say in matter which affect their daily lives. In contrast, It can be argued that Representative democracy is more manageable and practicable in a modern democracy like the UK where it is not seen as realistic to consult an electorate of 45 million citizens on every issue that concerns them. For example, in Ancient Athens it is estimated that only around 40,000 males participated in Direct Democracy due to the small scale of the city compared to present day so direct democracy was a more realistic possibility in Ancient Greece. Therefore it can be argued that representative democracy is far more manageable and feasible when presented with a large electorate and it is not realistic to ask citizens to vote regularly on every matter which concerns them. Theorist Joseph Schumpeter considered representative democracy a credible solution to the problem of most people simply not having the time or expertise to be able to continuously engage in complex political debate. Overall, it is clear that representative democracy is superior because although direct democracy can give citizens more direct influence in decision making it is completely impractical to involve every citizen in a large modern state in every decision made which affects them. Direct democracy is unworkable and unmanageable in most modern states today due to the number of adults enfranchised. In the USA for example more than 146 million voters are registered and it is not feasible to involve every one in decision making directly, although it may be more workable in smaller areas such as New England townships.
  • 51.
    Conclusion 1) In conclusion,it is clear that both Direct and Representative democracy offer advantages to citizens. 2) On the one hand… (summarise advantages of direct democracy here) On the other hand… (summarise advantages of representative democracy here) 3) Overall, it is clear that the benefits of _____ democracy are far superior because…. This is also the case because… Therefore it is clear that ______ democracy is superior.
  • 52.
    Churchill is sayingdemocracy is far better than any other form of government
  • 53.
    12 mark Question– 2015 Paper Plan; Pick 3 or 4 advantages/ features of Direct Democracy Short Intro and conclusion for Good Practice Refer to at least one theorist
  • 54.
    12 mark Responses Analyse…or Evaluate… or Compare Component Marks Knowledge i.e. description, explanation, example 8 Analysis & Evaluation It can be argued that… It is clear that… However… 4
  • 55.
    Intro Sentence 1 –Background of democracy – what is it, what does it mean etc. Sentence 2 – List the things you will discuss ‘this essay will discuss…’
  • 56.
    Paragraphs 1. Heightens control 2. Politicises citizens 3.Don’t have to rely on self- serving politicians 4. Ensures legitimacy Paragraph Structure Topic sentence ‘One key feature of direct democracy is… Knowledge – Describe the feature in detail Example – use an example that backs this up Analyse – ‘it can be argued that… OR ‘However, it may be argued that… You must include a Theorist's view in at least one paragraph!
  • 57.
    Conclusion – goodpractice • In conclusion, the key features of Direct Democracy are… (list). It is clear that Direct democracy can help … (give a brief advantage) however it may be argued that (give a brief disadvantage)
  • 58.
    1. Analyse thekey features of Representative Democracy. In your answer you should refer to the work of at least one theorist. 12 For Direct Democracy you would sue the same structure that is on the next slide, with different features.
  • 59.
    Analyse the keyfeatures of Representative Democracy. In your answer you should refer to the work of at least one theorist. 12 Short intro 1. Practicable/ manageable 2. Creates a division of labour 3. Uses expertise and experience 4. Provides stability accountability and compromise Short conclusion Paragraph Structure Topic sentence ‘One key feature of representative democracy is… Knowledge – Describe the feature in detail Example – use an example that backs this up Analyse – ‘it can be argued that… OR ‘However, it may be argued that… You must include a Theorist's view in at least one paragraph!

Editor's Notes

  • #6 Make pupils aware that the Electoral Commission is an organisation which makes sure elections are carried out properly in the UK.
  • #10 TRUMP TAX SCANDAL- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TTwPGxSQ4jM&t=1s $750 in taxes, reported losses, IRS dispute- audit ongoing. DA and AG in NYC asked for tax returns. Trump is the only modern President to refuse. Claimed a tax refund of $7.2 million. This is disputed. $70,000 in expenses for his hair during the apprentice. White house question- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wYGwFPdDP3U AFRICAN AMERICAN VOTES- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=reae0qgZ8bM 3.5 million votes deterred through targeted bad ad campaigns.
  • #11 Make pupils aware that the Electoral Commission is an organisation which makes sure elections are carried out properly in the UK.
  • #12 Make pupils aware that the Electoral Commission is an organisation which makes sure elections are carried out properly in the UK.
  • #13 CANTONS- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y5W45Va0cPE
  • #14 LANGS-GE-MINDE CANTONS- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y5W45Va0cPE
  • #16 Make pupils aware that the Electoral Commission is an organisation which makes sure elections are carried out properly in the UK.
  • #18 Make pupils aware that the Electoral Commission is an organisation which makes sure elections are carried out properly in the UK.
  • #25 Make pupils aware that the Electoral Commission is an organisation which makes sure elections are carried out properly in the UK.
  • #28 Make pupils aware that the Electoral Commission is an organisation which makes sure elections are carried out properly in the UK.
  • #31 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y9nWkRlSR9o
  • #32 JACK STRAW & MALCOLM RIFKIND https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R_Xp_i9ECYM https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NVKOhoxWSEI Tories- 4.3 million Labour 2.4 million Sir Malcolm Rifkind is to step down as MP and has also resigned as chairman of the Parliamentary Intelligence and Security Committee after an undercover sting. The announcement comes after the Tory former foreign secretary denied any wrongdoing after being secretly filmed discussing potentially being hired by a private company to provide “useful access” to British ambassadors. In the footage from Daily Telegraph and Channel 4 Dispatches reporters, Sir Malcolm and Labour MP Jack Straw appeared to offer to use their positions and experience to benefit the fictitious Hong Kong-based firm in exchange for thousands of pounds.
  • #33 VOTING IN THE COMMONS- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J6e_XoSuopo Syria- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mn9CGpSOqlU
  • #41 Make pupils aware that the Electoral Commission is an organisation which makes sure elections are carried out properly in the UK.