Question

Which of these is not a good argument in favour of democracy? Why?

• A. People feel free and equal in a democracy
• B. Democracies resolve conflict in a better way than others.
• C. Democratic government is more accountable to the people.
• D. Democracies are more prosperous than others

Answer 1

The correct option is D

Democracies are more prosperous than others

Answer: The correct answer is option (D) – Democracies are more prosperous than other.

• This is not a good argument in favour of democracy.
• One can find examples of other countries, where they are not democratic yet they are more prosperous economically. For example Saudi Arabia and China. There is no democracy in these two countries, yet they are more economically prosperous.
• Consider the example of Cuba, there is no democracy, yet they are a very prosperous country when it comes to Olympic sports, whereas India has achieved very minor achievements in Olympic sports.
• Hence one can conclude that it is the policies of the Government that matters if a nation has to achieve prosperity.
• In a diverse country, naturally there will be many conflicts between states, conflicts between communities, religions, castes, people speaking different languages, culture etc. These conflicts can be resolved in an efficient manner in a democracy, because there will be many institutions and procedures to resolve the conflicts. Whereas in a non democratic nation, it will not be easy to resolve conflicts.
• When it comes to responding to the needs of the people, democratic form of government is better suited than any other form of government.
• A non democratic government may respond to the needs of the people, but it all comes down to the whims and fancies of the people who rule.
• In a democracy, elections are held regularly, if the Government fails to respond to the needs of the people, they will be voted out of power. Hence the Governments in a democracy are accountable to the people and they are forced to respond to the needs of the people.
• Right to equality is a fundamental right of every citizen in a democratic country like India.

• Each and every citizen will be given equal protection under the laws of the land.
• In a democracy, no citizen is above the law.
• The foundation of democracy is the rule of law.
• Irrespective of the status of the person, laws are applicable in the same manner to everyone. Laws are the same for ordinary citizens, government official, or political leaders.