Democracy in Action

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What is a referendum?

A referendum is a vote by the electorate on a specific political question.

What are political parties?

Political parties are organized groups that seek to gain political power and influence governmental policies.

What is the role of the judiciary in a democracy?

The judiciary interprets laws and ensures they adhere to the constitution.

What is a coalition government?

A coalition government is formed by multiple political parties working together.

How do citizens participate in a democracy besides voting?

Citizens can participate by joining political parties, attending town meetings, or engaging in advocacy.

What is an interest group?

An interest group is an organized group that tries to influence public policy.

What is a representative's job in a democracy?

Representatives are elected to act and make decisions on behalf of their constituents.

Why might a democracy have different branches of government?

Different branches, like the executive, legislative, and judicial, allow checks and balances to prevent abuse of power.

What is civic engagement?

Civic engagement involves individuals actively participating in political and community activities.

What is a bicameral legislature?

A bicameral legislature has two houses or chambers, often an upper and a lower house.

What does transparency mean in a democratic government?

Transparency means government actions and decisions are open and clear to the public.

What is proportional representation?

Proportional representation is an electoral system where parties gain seats in proportion to the number of votes they receive.

How can social media impact democracy?

Social media can enhance or challenge democracy by spreading information and influencing public opinion.

What is a civic duty?

A civic duty is a responsibility, like voting or jury duty, expected from a citizen.

How is a bill passed in a democracy?

A bill becomes law after approval by both legislative houses and receiving consent from the leader of the executive branch (e.g., the president).