essay on democracy in 100 words

30,000+ students realised their study abroad dream with us. Take the first step today

Here’s your new year gift, one app for all your, study abroad needs, start your journey, track your progress, grow with the community and so much more.

Verification Code

An OTP has been sent to your registered mobile no. Please verify

Thanks for your comment !

Our team will review it before it's shown to our readers.

Essay on Democracy in 100, 300 and 500 Words

• Updated on  
• Jan 15, 2024

The oldest account of democracy can be traced back to 508–507 BCC Athens . Today there are over 50 different types of democracy across the world. But, what is the ideal form of democracy? Why is democracy considered the epitome of freedom and rights around the globe? Let’s explore what self-governance is and how you can write a creative and informative essay on democracy and its significance. 

Today, India is the largest democracy with a population of 1.41 billion and counting. Everyone in India above the age of 18 is given the right to vote and elect their representative. Isn’t it beautiful, when people are given the option to vote for their leader, one that understands their problems and promises to end their miseries? This is just one feature of democracy , for we have a lot of samples for you in the essay on democracy. Stay tuned!

Can you answer these questions in under 5 minutes? Take the Ultimate GK Quiz to find out!

This Blog Includes:

What is democracy , sample essay on democracy (100 words), sample essay on democracy (250 to 300 words), sample essay on democracy for upsc (500 words).

Democracy is a form of government in which the final authority to deliberate and decide the legislation for the country lies with the people, either directly or through representatives. Within a democracy, the method of decision-making, and the demarcation of citizens vary among countries. However, some fundamental principles of democracy include the rule of law, inclusivity, political deliberations, voting via elections , etc. 

Did you know: On 15th August 1947, India became the world’s largest democracy after adopting the Indian Constitution and granting fundamental rights to its citizens?

Must Explore: Human Rights Courses for Students 

Must Explore: NCERT Notes on Separation of Powers in a Democracy

Democracy where people make decisions for the country is the only known form of governance in the world that promises to inculcate principles of equality, liberty and justice. The deliberations and negotiations to form policies and make decisions for the country are the basis on which the government works, with supreme power to people to choose their representatives, delegate the country’s matters and express their dissent. The democratic system is usually of two types, the presidential system, and the parliamentary system. In India, the three pillars of democracy, namely legislature, executive and judiciary, working independently and still interconnected, along with a free press and media provide a structure for a truly functional democracy. Despite the longest-written constitution incorporating values of sovereignty, socialism, secularism etc. India, like other countries, still faces challenges like corruption, bigotry, and oppression of certain communities and thus, struggles to stay true to its democratic ideals.

Did you know: Some of the richest countries in the world are democracies?

Must Read : Consumer Rights in India

Must Read: Democracy and Diversity Class 10

As Abraham Lincoln once said, “democracy is the government of the people, by the people and for the people.” There is undeniably no doubt that the core of democracies lies in making people the ultimate decision-makers. With time, the simple definition of democracy has evolved to include other principles like equality, political accountability, rights of the citizens and to an extent, values of liberty and justice. Across the globe, representative democracies are widely prevalent, however, there is a major variation in how democracies are practised. The major two types of representative democracy are presidential and parliamentary forms of democracy. Moreover, not all those who present themselves as a democratic republic follow its values.

Many countries have legally deprived some communities of living with dignity and protecting their liberty, or are practising authoritarian rule through majoritarianism or populist leaders. Despite this, one of the things that are central and basic to all is the practice of elections and voting. However, even in such a case, the principles of universal adult franchise and the practice of free and fair elections are theoretically essential but very limited in practice, for a democracy. Unlike several other nations, India is still, at least constitutionally and principally, a practitioner of an ideal democracy.

With our three organs of the government, namely legislative, executive and judiciary, the constitutional rights to citizens, a multiparty system, laws to curb discrimination and spread the virtues of equality, protection to minorities, and a space for people to discuss, debate and dissent, India has shown a commitment towards democratic values. In recent times, with challenges to freedom of speech, rights of minority groups and a conundrum between the protection of diversity and unification of the country, the debate about the preservation of democracy has become vital to public discussion.

Did you know: In countries like Brazil, Scotland, Switzerland, Argentina, and Austria the minimum voting age is 16 years?

Also Read: Difference Between Democracy and Dictatorship

Democracy originated from the Greek word dēmokratiā , with dēmos ‘people’ and Kratos ‘rule.’ For the first time, the term appeared in the 5th century BC to denote the political systems then existing in Greek city-states, notably Classical Athens, to mean “rule of the people.” It now refers to a form of governance where the people have the right to participate in the decision-making of the country. Majorly, it is either a direct democracy where citizens deliberate and make legislation while in a representative democracy, they choose government officials on their behalf, like in a parliamentary or presidential democracy.

The presidential system (like in the USA) has the President as the head of the country and the government, while the parliamentary system (like in the UK and India) has both a Prime Minister who derives its legitimacy from a parliament and even a nominal head like a monarch or a President.

The notions and principle frameworks of democracy have evolved with time. At the core, lies the idea of political discussions and negotiations. In contrast to its alternatives like monarchy, anarchy, oligarchy etc., it is the one with the most liberty to incorporate diversity. The ideas of equality, political representation to all, active public participation, the inclusion of dissent, and most importantly, the authority to the law by all make it an attractive option for citizens to prefer, and countries to follow.

The largest democracy in the world, India with the lengthiest constitution has tried and to an extent, successfully achieved incorporating the framework to be a functional democracy. It is a parliamentary democratic republic where the President is head of the state and the Prime minister is head of the government. It works on the functioning of three bodies, namely legislative, executive, and judiciary. By including the principles of a sovereign, socialist, secular and democratic republic, and undertaking the guidelines to establish equality, liberty and justice, in the preamble itself, India shows true dedication to achieving the ideal.

It has formed a structure that allows people to enjoy their rights, fight against discrimination or any other form of suppression, and protect their rights as well. The ban on all and any form of discrimination, an independent judiciary, governmental accountability to its citizens, freedom of media and press, and secular values are some common values shared by all types of democracies.

Across the world, countries have tried rooting their constitution with the principles of democracy. However, the reality is different. Even though elections are conducted everywhere, mostly, they lack freedom of choice and fairness. Even in the world’s greatest democracies, there are challenges like political instability, suppression of dissent, corruption , and power dynamics polluting the political sphere and making it unjust for the citizens. Despite the consensus on democracy as the best form of government, the journey to achieve true democracy is both painstaking and tiresome. 

Did you know: Countries like Singapore, Peru, and Brazil have compulsory voting?

Must Read: Democracy and Diversity Class 10 Notes

Democracy is a process through which the government of a country is elected by and for the people.

Yes, India is a democratic country and also holds the title of the world’s largest democracy.

Direct and Representative Democracy are the two major types of Democracy.

Related Articles

Hope you learned from our essay on democracy! For more exciting articles related to writing and education, follow Leverage Edu .

Sonal is a creative, enthusiastic writer and editor who has worked extensively for the Study Abroad domain. She splits her time between shooting fun insta reels and learning new tools for content marketing. If she is missing from her desk, you can find her with a group of people cracking silly jokes or petting neighbourhood dogs.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Contact no. *

Very helpful essay

Thanks for your valuable feedback

Thank you so much for informing this much about democracy

Leaving already?

8 Universities with higher ROI than IITs and IIMs

Grab this one-time opportunity to download this ebook

Connect With Us

30,000+ students realised their study abroad dream with us. take the first step today..

Resend OTP in

Need help with?

Study abroad.

UK, Canada, US & More

IELTS, GRE, GMAT & More

Scholarship, Loans & Forex

Country Preference

New Zealand

Which English test are you planning to take?

Which academic test are you planning to take.

Not Sure yet

When are you planning to take the exam?

Already booked my exam slot

Within 2 Months

Want to learn about the test

Which Degree do you wish to pursue?

When do you want to start studying abroad.

September 2024

January 2025

What is your budget to study abroad?

How would you describe this article ?

Please rate this article

We would like to hear more.

By the People: Essays on Democracy

Harvard Kennedy School faculty explore aspects of democracy in their own words—from increasing civic participation and decreasing extreme partisanship to strengthening democratic institutions and making them more fair.

Winter 2020

By Archon Fung , Nancy Gibbs , Tarek Masoud , Julia Minson , Cornell William Brooks , Jane Mansbridge , Arthur Brooks , Pippa Norris , Benjamin Schneer

The basic terms of democratic governance are shifting before our eyes, and we don’t know what the future holds. Some fear the rise of hateful populism and the collapse of democratic norms and practices. Others see opportunities for marginalized people and groups to exercise greater voice and influence. At the Kennedy School, we are striving to produce ideas and insights to meet these great uncertainties and to help make democratic governance successful in the future. In the pages that follow, you can read about the varied ways our faculty members think about facets of democracy and democratic institutions and making democracy better in practice.

Explore essays on democracy

Archon fung: we voted, nancy gibbs: truth and trust, tarek masoud: a fragile state, julia minson: just listen, cornell william brooks: democracy behind bars, jane mansbridge: a teachable skill, arthur brooks: healthy competition, pippa norris: kicking the sandcastle, benjamin schneer: drawing a line.

Get smart & reliable public policy insights right in your inbox. 

Talk to our experts

1800-120-456-456

• Democracy Essay for Students in English

Essay on Democracy

Introduction.

Democracy is mainly a Greek word which means people and their rules, here peoples have the to select their own government as per their choice. Greece was the first democratic country in the world. India is a democratic country where people select their government of their own choice, also people have the rights to do the work of their choice. There are two types of democracy: direct and representative and hybrid or semi-direct democracy. There are many decisions which are made under democracies. People enjoy few rights which are very essential for human beings to live happily. 

Our country has the largest democracy. In a democracy, each person has equal rights to fight for development. After the independence, India has adopted democracy, where the people vote those who are above 18 years of age, but these votes do not vary by any caste; people from every caste have equal rights to select their government. Democracy, also called as a rule of the majority, means whatever the majority of people decide, it has to be followed or implemented, the representative winning with the most number of votes will have the power. We can say the place where literacy people are more there shows the success of the democracy even lack of consciousness is also dangerous in a democracy. Democracy is associated with higher human accumulation and higher economic freedom. Democracy is closely tied with the economic source of growth like education and quality of life as well as health care. The constituent assembly in India was adopted by Dr B.R. Ambedkar on 26 th November 1949 and became sovereign democratic after its constitution came into effect on 26 January 1950.

What are the Challenges:

There are many challenges for democracy like- corruption here, many political leaders and officers who don’t do work with integrity everywhere they demand bribes, resulting in the lack of trust on the citizens which affects the country very badly. Anti-social elements- which are seen during elections where people are given bribes and they are forced to vote for a particular candidate. Caste and community- where a large number of people give importance to their caste and community, therefore, the political party also selects the candidate on the majority caste. We see wherever the particular caste people win the elections whether they do good for the society or not, and in some cases, good leaders lose because of less count of the vote.

India is considered to be the largest democracy around the globe, with a population of 1.3 billion. Even though being the biggest democratic nation, India still has a long way to becoming the best democratic system. The caste system still prevails in some parts, which hurts the socialist principle of democracy. Communalism is on the rise throughout the globe and also in India, which interferes with the secular principle of democracy. All these differences need to be set aside to ensure a thriving democracy.

Principles of Democracy:

There are mainly five principles like- republic, socialist, sovereign, democratic and secular, with all these quality political parties will contest for elections. There will be many bribes given to the needy person who require food, money, shelter and ask them to vote whom they want. But we can say that democracy in India is still better than the other countries.

Basically, any country needs democracy for development and better functioning of the government. In some countries, freedom of political expression, freedom of speech, freedom of the press, are considered to ensure that voters are well informed, enabling them to vote according to their own interests.

Let us Discuss These Five Principles in Further Detail

Sovereign: In short, being sovereign or sovereignty means the independent authority of a state. The country has the authority to make all the decisions whether it be on internal issues or external issues, without the interference of any third party.

Socialist: Being socialist means the country (and the Govt.), always works for the welfare of the people, who live in that country. There should be many bribes offered to the needy person, basic requirements of them should be fulfilled by any means. No one should starve in such a country.

Secular: There will be no such thing as a state religion, the country does not make any bias on the basis of religion. Every religion must be the same in front of the law, no discrimination on the basis of someone’s religion is tolerated. Everyone is allowed to practice and propagate any religion, they can change their religion at any time.

Republic: In a republic form of Government, the head of the state is elected, directly or indirectly by the people and is not a hereditary monarch. This elected head is also there for a fixed tenure. In India, the head of the state is the president, who is indirectly elected and has a fixed term of office (5 years).

Democratic: By a democratic form of government, means the country’s government is elected by the people via the process of voting. All the adult citizens in the country have the right to vote to elect the government they want, only if they meet a certain age limit of voting.

Merits of Democracy:

better government forms because it is more accountable and in the interest of the people.

improves the quality of decision making and enhances the dignity of the citizens.

provide a method to deal with differences and conflicts.

A democratic system of government is a form of government in which supreme power is vested in the people and exercised by them directly or indirectly through a system of representation usually involving periodic free elections. It permits citizens to participate in making laws and public policies by choosing their leaders, therefore citizens should be educated so that they can select the right candidate for the ruling government. Also, there are some concerns regarding democracy- leaders always keep changing in democracy with the interest of citizens and on the count of votes which leads to instability. It is all about political competition and power, no scope for morality.

Factors Affect Democracy:

capital and civil society

economic development

modernization

Norway and Iceland are the best democratic countries in the world. India is standing at fifty-one position.

India is a parliamentary democratic republic where the President is head of the state and Prime minister is head of the government. The guiding principles of democracy such as protected rights and freedoms, free and fair elections, accountability and transparency of government officials, citizens have a responsibility to uphold and support their principles. Democracy was first practised in the 6 th century BCE, in the city-state of Athens. One basic principle of democracy is that people are the source of all the political power, in a democracy people rule themselves and also respect given to diverse groups of citizens, so democracy is required to select the government of their own interest and make the nation developed by electing good leaders.

FAQs on Democracy Essay for Students in English

1. What are the Features of Democracy?

Features of Democracy are as follows

Equality: Democracy provides equal rights to everyone, regardless of their gender, caste, colour, religion or creed.

Individual Freedom: Everybody has the right to do anything they want until it does not affect another person’s liberty.

Majority Rules: In a democracy, things are decided by the majority rule, if the majority agrees to something, it will be done.

Free Election: Everyone has the right to vote or to become a candidate to fight the elections.

2. Define Democracy?

Democracy means where people have the right to choose the rulers and also people have freedom to express views, freedom to organise and freedom to protest. Protesting and showing Dissent is a major part of a healthy democracy. Democracy is the most successful and popular form of government throughout the globe.

Democracy holds a special place in India, also India is still the largest democracy in existence around the world.

3. What are the Benefits of Democracy?

Let us discuss some of the benefits received by the use of democracy to form a government. Benefits of democracy are: 

It is more accountable

Improves the quality of decision as the decision is taken after a long time of discussion and consultation.

It provides a better method to deal with differences and conflicts.

It safeguards the fundamental rights of people and brings a sense of equality and freedom.

It works for the welfare of both the people and the state.

4. Which country is the largest democracy in the World?

India is considered the largest democracy, all around the world. India decided to have a democratic Govt. from the very first day of its independence after the rule of the British. In India, everyone above the age of 18 years can go to vote to select the Government, without any kind of discrimination on the basis of caste, colour, religion, gender or more. But India, even being the largest democracy, still has a long way to become perfect.

5. Write about the five principles of Democracy?

There are five key principles that are followed in a democracy. These Five Principles of Democracy of India are -  secular, sovereign, republic, socialist, and democratic. These five principles have to be respected by every political party, participating in the general elections in India. The party which got the most votes forms the government which represents the democratic principle. No discrimination is done on the basis of religion which represents the secular nature of democracy. The govt. formed after the election has to work for the welfare of common people which shows socialism in play.

Essay on Democracy

Democracy, a word that echoes with the essence of freedom and collective empowerment, is a form of government that places the reins of power in the hands of the people. For young minds eager to understand the world around them, exploring the concept of democracy unveils a fascinating journey into the heart of governance and civic responsibility.

At its core, democracy is not just a political system; it's a philosophy that believes in the equal participation of every individual in decision-making. Imagine a society where everyone has a say in the rules that govern them—a place where the voice of a child is as important as that of an adult. This is the spirit of democracy, a system that values equality, liberty, and the idea that each person's opinion holds significance.

One of the key principles of democracy is the notion of 'one person, one vote.' This means that, regardless of social status, wealth, or background, each citizen has an equal right to cast their vote during elections. This equalizing force ensures that no single group or individual dominates the decision-making process. It is the very foundation upon which the democratic structure stands tall.

Democracy isn't just a modern concept; its roots can be traced back to ancient Greece. The word itself finds its origin in Greek, where "demos" means "people," and "kratos" means "rule" or "power." The Greeks, recognizing the importance of collective governance, laid the groundwork for a system that would evolve over centuries.

In a democratic society, citizens are not mere spectators but active participants. They engage in discussions, express their opinions, and play a pivotal role in shaping the laws and policies that govern the community. This engagement fosters a sense of responsibility and belonging among citizens, as they become co-creators of the society they inhabit.

Democracy is not without its challenges. It requires a commitment from every member of society to understand the issues at hand, make informed decisions, and respect diverse perspectives. It demands tolerance and a willingness to listen, recognizing that a healthy democracy thrives on the diversity of ideas.

As we explore the various forms of democracy around the world, it becomes evident that while the core principles remain constant, the implementation may vary. Some countries embrace direct democracy, where citizens directly vote on laws, while others opt for representative democracy, entrusting elected representatives to make decisions on their behalf.

In the global tapestry of nations, democracies come in different shapes and sizes, each adapting to the unique needs and circumstances of its people. This adaptability is a strength, allowing democracy to flourish in diverse cultures and contexts.

For the young minds eager to comprehend the world they inhabit, democracy serves as a beacon of hope. It teaches valuable lessons about equality, justice, and the power of collective action. As we embark on this exploration of democracy, let us unravel its layers, appreciate its significance, and envision a future where the voices of the next generation contribute to the ever-evolving narrative of governance and freedom.

Why is the Essay on Democracy important for your exams? 

An essay on democracy holds paramount importance in academic examinations for several compelling reasons. Firstly, it assesses the students' understanding of fundamental political concepts and systems, fostering a comprehensive grasp of the subject matter. Democracy, being a cornerstone of political science, demands a nuanced understanding of its principles, historical context, and contemporary relevance.

Examinations aim to evaluate students not just on their ability to memorize information but also on their capacity to analyze, synthesize, and articulate thoughts effectively. Crafting an essay on democracy requires students to delve into the intricacies of governance, political philosophy, and societal dynamics. It prompts them to think critically, connect ideas, and present a coherent argument—a skill set crucial for academic success and beyond.

Furthermore, an essay on democracy serves as a platform for students to develop their communication skills. Articulating complex ideas in a clear and structured manner is an invaluable skill that transcends the boundaries of academia. The ability to express thoughts eloquently is a transferable skill applicable in various aspects of life, including future academic pursuits, professional endeavors, and civic engagement.

Examinations often aim to gauge a student's capacity to engage with diverse perspectives. Writing on democracy necessitates an exploration of contrasting ideologies, historical contexts, and global variations in democratic practices. This exposure equips students with a broader worldview and cultivates open-mindedness—an essential quality for informed citizenship and intellectual growth.

Moreover, an essay on democracy encourages research and the assimilation of information from diverse sources. This process of inquiry not only enhances the depth of knowledge but also nurtures research skills, teaching students to discern reliable information from various mediums—a skill vital in the age of abundant information and misinformation.

In essence, an essay on democracy is a multifaceted assessment tool. It gauges a student's knowledge, critical thinking abilities, communication skills, and capacity to navigate a complex and interconnected world. As education evolves to prepare students for a dynamic future, the importance of such essays extends beyond examinations, molding individuals into analytical thinkers, effective communicators, and responsible citizens poised to contribute meaningfully to society.

Long and Short Essay on Democracy in India in English

Here in this web page we have provided long and short essays on Democracy in India in English to help you with the topic in your exams/school assignments. Students can select any Democracy in India essay as per your need:

Essay on Democracy (100 words)

Democracy is a form of government where people have the power. In a democracy, citizens vote to choose their leaders and make decisions. It ensures everyone's voice is heard. Citizens have rights and freedoms. In a democratic country, leaders are elected, not appointed. It promotes equality and protects individual rights. People can express their opinions freely. Democracy encourages participation and cooperation. It's essential for a fair and just society. Every person's vote matters, making democracy a system that values the collective will of the people.

Essay on Democracy (200 words)

Democracy is a form of government where people have the power to make decisions. In a democracy, citizens choose their leaders through elections. It ensures that everyone's voice is heard, and decisions are made for the benefit of the majority.

One key feature of democracy is equality. All citizens, regardless of their background, have the right to participate and vote. This creates a sense of fairness and unity among people. Democracy promotes freedom of speech, allowing individuals to express their opinions without fear.

In a democratic system, leaders are accountable to the people. If citizens are unhappy with their leaders, they can vote for change in the next election. This keeps leaders focused on the needs of the people.

Democracy fosters a culture of cooperation and compromise. Different opinions are considered, and decisions are reached through discussion and negotiation. This helps in finding solutions that work for everyone.

In conclusion, democracy is a system that values equality, freedom, and accountability. It empowers citizens to actively participate in shaping their society, making it a crucial and beneficial form of government.

Essay on Democracy (250 words) 

Democracy is a system of government where the power to make decisions lies with the people. It is a fundamental concept that emphasizes equality, freedom, and participation. In a democratic country, citizens have the right to choose their leaders through periodic elections.

One essential aspect of democracy is the principle of equality. Every citizen, regardless of their background, has an equal say in the decision-making process. This inclusivity promotes a sense of unity and fairness among the people.

Freedom of expression is another cornerstone of democracy. Citizens have the right to voice their opinions, criticize the government, and engage in open discussions without fear of reprisal. This encourages a diverse range of ideas and perspectives, contributing to a vibrant and dynamic society.

Democracy ensures accountability by holding leaders responsible for their actions. Through regular elections, citizens have the power to change their government if they are dissatisfied with its performance. This accountability keeps leaders focused on serving the interests of the people.

Moreover, democracy fosters a culture of cooperation and compromise. In a diverse society, different opinions and beliefs exist, and democracy provides a framework for resolving conflicts through dialogue and negotiation. This collaborative approach helps in achieving decisions that consider various viewpoints.

In conclusion, democracy is a system that values the principles of equality, freedom, accountability, and cooperation. It empowers citizens to actively participate in the governance of their country, making it a crucial and enriching form of government for the well-being of society.

Essay on Democracy (300 words)

Democracy is a form of government that empowers citizens to participate in decision-making processes. Rooted in the principles of equality, freedom, and representation, it stands as a crucial pillar in the governance of a nation. In a democratic system, people have the right to elect their leaders through periodic elections.

The foundation of democracy lies in the principle of equality. Every citizen, regardless of their social, economic, or cultural background, holds an equal voice in shaping the destiny of the nation. This inclusivity ensures that diverse perspectives contribute to the decision-making process, fostering a sense of unity and fairness.

Freedom of expression is a fundamental right within a democratic society. Citizens are free to voice their opinions, criticize the government, and engage in open debates without fear of persecution. This freedom not only safeguards individual liberties but also nurtures a society where a variety of ideas and viewpoints coexist.

Accountability is a key feature of democracy. Elected leaders are accountable to the people who have entrusted them with power. Regular elections provide an opportunity for citizens to evaluate the performance of their leaders and make informed choices. This accountability mechanism ensures that leaders remain focused on serving the interests of the public.

Democracy also encourages a culture of cooperation and compromise. In a diverse society with varying beliefs and opinions, democratic processes provide a platform for dialogue and negotiation. Through constructive discussions, conflicting ideas can be reconciled, leading to decisions that reflect the collective will of the people.

In conclusion, democracy stands as a system that upholds principles of equality, freedom, accountability, and cooperation. By actively engaging citizens in governance, it creates a foundation for a just and inclusive society, where the diverse voices of the people contribute to the progress and well-being of the nation.

Essay on Democracy (400 words)

Democracy, derived from the Greek words "demos" (people) and "kratos" (rule), is a form of government where the power to make decisions is vested in the hands of the people. This system, embodying principles of equality, freedom, and representation, serves as a cornerstone in shaping the governance of nations.

One of the fundamental tenets of democracy is equality. In a democratic society, all citizens, regardless of their background, wealth, or social status, possess an equal right to participate in the decision-making process. This inclusivity ensures that the diverse voices of the population contribute to the formation of policies, fostering a sense of unity and fairness.

Freedom of expression is another crucial aspect of democracy. Citizens have the right to voice their opinions, express dissent, and engage in open discourse without fear of reprisal. This freedom not only safeguards individual liberties but also enriches the public discourse by encouraging a multitude of perspectives and ideas.

Accountability is integral to the democratic system. Elected representatives are accountable to the people who entrust them with power. Regular elections provide a mechanism for citizens to evaluate the performance of their leaders and make informed choices. This ensures that leaders remain focused on serving the interests of the public rather than pursuing self-interest.

Democracy also promotes the rule of law, ensuring that everyone, including those in power, is subject to the same legal principles. This safeguards individual rights and prevents the arbitrary exercise of authority. The concept of rule of law reinforces the idea that no one is above the law and that justice is impartial.

A distinctive feature of democracy is the protection of minority rights. While majority rule is a fundamental aspect, democracy recognizes the importance of safeguarding the rights of minority groups. This prevents the tyranny of the majority, ensuring that the rights and interests of minority communities are not overlooked or suppressed.

Furthermore, democracy fosters a culture of cooperation and compromise. In a diverse society, conflicting opinions and interests are inevitable. Democratic processes provide a structured framework for resolving differences through dialogue and negotiation. This collaborative approach leads to decisions that accommodate various viewpoints, contributing to social cohesion.

In conclusion, democracy serves as a system that upholds principles of equality, freedom, accountability, rule of law, protection of minority rights, and cooperation. By actively involving citizens in the decision-making process, democracy establishes a foundation for a just and inclusive society, where the collective wisdom of the people shapes the path of the nation's progress and well-being.

Essay on Democracy (500 words)

Democracy, originating from the Greek words "demos" (people) and "kratos" (rule), is a profound and influential system of governance that places the power to make decisions in the hands of the people. It embodies key principles such as equality, freedom, representation, and accountability, playing a pivotal role in shaping the governance of nations across the globe.

Central to the concept of democracy is the principle of equality. In a democratic society, every citizen, irrespective of their socioeconomic background, ethnicity, or gender, possesses an equal right to participate in the decision-making process. This inclusivity is foundational, ensuring that diverse perspectives contribute to policy formation and fostering a sense of unity and fairness among the populace.

Freedom of expression is another cornerstone of democracy. Citizens are granted the right to voice their opinions, criticize the government, and engage in open discourse without fear of persecution. This freedom not only protects individual liberties but also enriches public discourse by encouraging the exchange of diverse perspectives and ideas. The free flow of ideas is essential for the intellectual and social progress of a democratic society.

Accountability is a defining characteristic of democracy. Elected representatives are accountable to the people who entrust them with power. Regular elections provide a mechanism for citizens to evaluate the performance of their leaders and make informed choices about the direction of their governance. This accountability mechanism ensures that leaders remain focused on serving the interests of the public rather than pursuing self-interest.

Democracy promotes the rule of law, emphasizing that everyone, including those in positions of power, is subject to the same legal principles. This safeguards individual rights, prevents the arbitrary exercise of authority, and reinforces the idea that no one is above the law. The rule of law is a fundamental pillar that ensures justice, fairness, and the protection of individual liberties.

A distinctive aspect of democracy is the protection of minority rights. While majority rule is essential, democracy recognizes the importance of safeguarding the rights of minority groups. This prevents the tyranny of the majority, ensuring that the rights and interests of minority communities are not overlooked or suppressed. It reflects a commitment to inclusivity and the protection of the rights of all citizens.

Furthermore, democracy fosters a culture of cooperation and compromise. In a society marked by diverse opinions and interests, democratic processes provide a structured framework for resolving differences through dialogue and negotiation. This collaborative approach leads to decisions that accommodate various viewpoints, contributing to social cohesion and the overall stability of the nation.

In conclusion, democracy stands as a robust and inclusive system of governance, upholding principles of equality, freedom, accountability, rule of law, protection of minority rights, and cooperation. By actively involving citizens in the decision-making process, democracy establishes a foundation for a just and inclusive society, where the collective wisdom of the people shapes the path of the nation's progress and well-being.

FAQs on Democracy Essay for Students in English

Question1: What are the Features of Democracy?

Answer: Features of Democracy are as follows Equality: Democracy provides equal rights to everyone, regardless of their gender, caste, color, religion or creed. Another is Individual Freedom: Everybody has the right to do anything they want until it does not affect another person’s liberty. In a democracy, things are decided by the majority rule, if the majority agrees to anything, it will be done.Free Election: Everyone has the right to vote or to become a candidate to fight any elections.

Question 2. What are the Benefits of Democracy?

Answer : Let's discuss some of the benefits received by the use of democracy to form a government. Benefits of democracy are following: It is more accountableImproves the quality of decision as the decision is taken after a long time of discussion and consultation. It provides a better method to deal with differences and conflicts issues. Democracy safeguards the fundamental rights of people and brings a sense of equality and freedom. 

Click here to get exam-ready with eSaral

For making your preparation journey smoother of JEE, NEET and Class 8 to 10, grab our app now.

Download Now

eSaral Gurukul

• JEE Coaching in Kota
• NEET Coaching in Kota
• NEET 2024 Exam Date
• JEE Main Question Paper
• JEE Main 2024 Question Paper
• JEE Main 2023 Question Paper
• JEE Main 2022 Question Paper
• JEE Main 2021 Question Paper

JEE Advanced

• JEE Advanced Question Paper
• JEE Advanced 2023 Question Paper

Our Telegram Channel

• eSaral Class 9-10

All Study Material

500+ word Essay on Democracy

Democracy is like a bright guiding light that has shaped our world for centuries. It’s not just a word; it’s a powerful idea that brings people together, giving them a voice and a choice in how they want to be governed. In this essay, we will explore why democracy is so important and why it matters to people all over the world.

Equality and Freedom

Democracy is all about equality and freedom. It means that every person, regardless of their background, has a say in how their country is run. In a democracy, the power doesn’t belong to just one person or a small group; it belongs to the people. For example, in the United States, the President is elected by the citizens, and this election happens every four years. This ensures that leaders are chosen by and for the people.

Protecting Rights

In a democratic country, certain rights and freedoms are protected. These include the right to express your thoughts and ideas freely, the right to choose your religion, and the right to a fair trial if you are accused of a crime. These rights are like a shield that keeps us safe from unfair treatment. They are written in documents like the Constitution and are upheld by the government.

Decision-Making

In a democracy, important decisions are made by considering the opinions of many people. This makes the decisions fairer and better for everyone. For instance, when a new law is proposed, it has to go through a process where lawmakers discuss it, and citizens can give their input. This way, laws are not made in secret, but in the open, with everyone having a chance to be heard.

Peaceful Change

Democracy allows for peaceful change. When people disagree with their leaders or government policies, they can vote for different leaders in the next election. This prevents violence and wars that can happen in places where people don’t have a say. An example is when Nelson Mandela became the leader of South Africa through democratic elections, ending years of racial discrimination and violence.

Economic Prosperity

Countries with strong democracies often have more economic prosperity. This is because democracy encourages entrepreneurship and innovation. People are more willing to invest and start businesses when they know their rights and property will be protected. A great example is how the democratic country of South Korea transformed from poverty to a global economic powerhouse in just a few decades.

Learning and Progress

Democracy encourages learning and progress. In democratic societies, education is highly valued. People have access to information and can make informed decisions. Leaders are held accountable for their actions, which motivates them to work for the betterment of the country. Finland is a prime example of a democratic nation that highly values education and consistently ranks among the top in global education assessments.

Protecting Minorities

Democracy protects the rights of minorities. It ensures that even if you belong to a small group or have different beliefs, you still have a voice, and your rights are respected. This helps create a diverse and inclusive society where everyone can thrive. Canada, for instance, has a strong democratic tradition and a commitment to protecting the rights of its Indigenous peoples and other minority groups.

Global Cooperation

Democracy also plays a role in global cooperation. Democratic countries often work together to solve common problems, like climate change or global health crises. They can negotiate and make agreements that benefit everyone. The Paris Agreement on climate change is an example of such global cooperation among democratic nations.

Conclusion of Essay on Democracy

In conclusion, democracy is not just a word; it’s a guiding principle that has the power to shape our world for the better. It ensures equality, freedom, and the protection of our rights. It encourages peaceful change and economic prosperity. Democracy values learning, progress, and the protection of minorities. It also fosters global cooperation. As we continue to cherish and uphold democracy, we strengthen the foundations of a just and prosperous world for generations to come. Democracy is not just for some; it’s for all of us, and it’s worth preserving and celebrating.

Also Check: 500+ Words long Essay on Technology

Democracy Essay

Democracy is derived from the Greek word demos or people. It is defined as a government in which the supreme power is vested in the people. Democracy is exercised directly by the people; in large societies, it is by the people through their elected agents. In the phrase of President Abraham Lincoln, democracy is the “Government of the people, by the people, and for the people.” There are various democratic countries, but India has the largest democracy in the world. This Democracy Essay will help you know all about India’s democracy. Students can also get a list of CBSE Essays on different topics to boost their essay-writing skills.

500+ Words Democracy Essay

India is a very large country full of diversities – linguistically, culturally and religiously. At the time of independence, it was economically underdeveloped. There were enormous regional disparities, widespread poverty, illiteracy, unemployment, and a shortage of almost all public welfare means. Since independence, India has been functioning as a responsible democracy. The same has been appreciated by the international community. It has successfully adapted to challenging situations. There have been free and fair periodic elections for all political offices, from the panchayats to the President. There has been a smooth transfer of political power from one political party or set of political parties to others, both at national and state levels, on many occasions.

India: A Democratic Country

Democracy is of two, i.e. direct and representative. In a direct democracy, all citizens, without the intermediary of elected or appointed officials, can participate in making public decisions. Such a system is only practical with relatively small numbers of people in a community organisation or tribal council. Whereas in representative democracy, every citizen has the right to vote for their representative. People elect their representatives to all levels, from Panchayats, Municipal Boards, State Assemblies and Parliament. In India, we have a representative democracy.

Democracy is a form of government in which rulers elected by the people take all the major decisions. Elections offer a choice and fair opportunity to the people to change the current rulers. This choice and opportunity are available to all people on an equal basis. The exercise of this choice leads to a government limited by basic rules of the constitution and citizens’ rights.

Democracy is the Best Form of Government

A democratic government is a better government because it is a more accountable form of government. Democracy provides a method to deal with differences and conflicts. Thus, democracy improves the quality of decision-making. The advantage of a democracy is that mistakes cannot be hidden for long. There is a space for public discussion, and there is room for correction. Either the rulers have to change their decisions, or the rulers can be changed. Democracy offers better chances of a good decision. It respects people’s own wishes and allows different kinds of people to live together. Even when it fails to do some of these things, it allows a way of correcting its mistakes and offers more dignity to all citizens. That is why democracy is considered the best form of government.

Students must have found this “Democracy Essay” useful for improving their essay writing skills. They can get the study material and the latest update on CBSE/ICSE/State Board/Competitive Exams, at BYJU’S.

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Your Mobile number and Email id will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Request OTP on Voice Call

Post My Comment

• Share Share

Register with BYJU'S & Download Free PDFs

Register with byju's & watch live videos.

Counselling

Democracy Arguments For and Against Essay

Introduction, arguments for democracy, arguments against democracy, works cited.

Contrary to other ideas in political science such as justice and liberty, democracy is a term that can be easily explained. It mainly relates to the government by the majority. Although characterizing democracy is not difficult, the latest political theory is often left this out. No strong argument is provided by political theorists regarding the reason for representative democracy.

On the other hand, if any is given, it lacks strength. One would anticipate that great literature can be created from the reasons for the promotion and institution of democracy. On the contrary, popular literature does not delve so much into why democracy is desirable, but instead, get to explain the reasons for the improvement of the current democracy. This essay examines what different philosophers have had to argue both for and against democracy.

One of the arguments is that democracy is important because it can be embraced and made deliberative. This implies that deliberation of a dialogical nature is vital to the democratic society. When democracy is made deliberate in a given society, instead of people’s mere adaptation to circumstance, their preferences are not only informed but also made clear.

Democracy also helps to remove points of difference among people without necessarily making them agree. At times, democracy requires that people be compelled to embrace a general perspective. As such, both their imagination and empathy are stretched. In the same vein of the deliberateness of democracy, selfish concerns can be separated from public-oriented considerations thus encouraging public reasoning for participants who are free and equal (Sosa & Villanueva 287-288).

Research also indicates that making democratic to be more deliberative is likely to result to other benefits such as legitimizing all decisions that are arrived at, encouraging the powerless to voice their concerns in decision making, promoting transparency among group members and enhancing outcomes that are just.

Another argument that favors the importance of democracy in deliberation is one that aims at making deliberation democratic and not vice versa. This implies that whenever there is democratic deliberation, then the probability of reaching the truth based on reliability increases with the presence of a democratic decision-making regime.

Moreover, democracy enhances the proper allocation of resources to appropriate uses. This argument is supported by the fact dictatorial leaders are not fully accountable to citizens and do not have motivations to put the total output into maximum use. Instead, they focus on their selfish ends.

Consequently, democracy ensures that property rights are protected hence allowing investors to have a long term perspective. Besides, allowing free flow of information ensures that the quality of economic decisions made is high (Dahl 448).

In attempting to argue against democracy, Gordon takes on several philosophers who have argued in favor of democracy. He does this by revealing how such arguments fail to hold water when based on democracy because, in his perspective, the proponents of democracy do not express the desirability of democracy as it were. A good example of writers who have omitted this fact is Bernard Barber.

He dismisses other philosophers on this matter arguing that a just political order can only be reached at through a discussion and not by avoiding it. Questions of distributive justice can properly be dealt with by individuals rather than by philosophers alone since it would be undemocratic to do the reverse. However, Barber does not clearly explain why people should value democracy.

His concern is that individuals thinking on their own can reach wiser decisions than a group of individuals discussing the same issue. He’s satisfied with the fact that Rousseau concurs with the issue. If he were to be correct about this empirical matter, then it would be sound to conclude that if democratic governance would guide a society, then it would be prudent to arrive at decisions in such a society through discussions.

Although this point is still devoid of the desirability of democracy, it centers on the importance of democracy in discussing policy publicly. Deliberating on issues publicly is not a compulsory ingredient for democracy. For instance, during the nineteenth century, there was no democracy in the British government although public issues could be discussed broadly (Gordon para.5).

Plato presents a couple of arguments against democracy. First, Plato describes democracies as societies that are anarchic. He believes that societies that are democratic are marked with anarchy. For example, his attack describes governments that are democratic for being libertarian in such a manner every citizen can carry out their life issues in a way that appeals to them.

In this way, he asserts that people mistake anarchy for freedom. Plato criticizes democratic societies again by asserting that since they are characterized with anarchy, they are devoid of unity. They are not united on two fronts. First, due to the lack of political structure and are not politically organized. Second, democratic societies do not have a leadership structure since everyone can speak on political issues.

Second, Plato argues that democratic societies are likely to adhere to what their citizens want hence lacking any concern for the good of all. If anarchy is what features in democracies, then every individual has the freedom to choose what will ultimately benefit him or her. These choices may clash and encourage people to value their own needs rather those of others as well.

This is a clear pursuit of personal desires which may encourage loss of the common good. Since citizens have no idea of what ruling is, it happens that they pursue their passions and not the reason because reason cannot be applied in such pursuits. Any leaders that are elected through democracy are therefore servants who are out to satisfy the individual desires and appetites of the citizens.

Plato further argues that citizens who are guided by democracy are likened to individuals who grope in darkness since they do not have what it takes to execute governance (Kofmel 20). Moreover, Plato lists two more difficulties. First, numerous individuals falsely believe that they have adequate political proficiency that can qualify them to take part in political issues.

Citizens are not bothered by the fact that on account of their political standing, they are entitled to an equal political voice with each other. Second, when people get involved in a philosophical investigation with each other, they are more concerned with winning arguments instead of the following truth.

Therefore, even though citizens may be endowed with enough political expertise, it may be concluded that they will not be able to manage it effectively (Kofmel 21). The best remedy to this problem is to limit popular involvement in politics and allowing those who have sufficient political know-how in matters of governance to take the lead in the political decision-making process. Such are the people who can guide the citizens into achieving their common good.

Democracy is a term that is perceived differently by different people. Arguments put forth in favor of it are that it encourages fair allocation of resources, sound decision making especially by the powerless and allows for transparency and justice through deliberation.

Arguments against democracy are that it is not the best option for decision making, it encourages anarchy and hence lack of unity and that democracy encourages people who do not have sufficient political expertise to be involved in decision making. This results in a lack of common good.

Dahl, Robert. The Democracy Sourcebook. NY: MIT Press, 2003. June 19, 2011.

Gordon, David. What’s the Argument for Democracy? LeRockwell.com, 1992. June 19, 2011.

Kofmel, Erich. Anti-Democratic Thought. Exeter, UK: Imprint Academic, 2008. June 19, 2011.

Sosa, Ernest & Villanueva, Enrique. Social, Political and Legal Philosophy, Volume 1. Malden, USA: Blackwell Publishers, 2001. June 19, 2011.

• Chicago (A-D)
• Chicago (N-B)

IvyPanda. (2020, March 14). Democracy Arguments For and Against. https://ivypanda.com/essays/democracy-arguments-for-and-against/

"Democracy Arguments For and Against." IvyPanda , 14 Mar. 2020, ivypanda.com/essays/democracy-arguments-for-and-against/.

IvyPanda . (2020) 'Democracy Arguments For and Against'. 14 March.

IvyPanda . 2020. "Democracy Arguments For and Against." March 14, 2020. https://ivypanda.com/essays/democracy-arguments-for-and-against/.

1. IvyPanda . "Democracy Arguments For and Against." March 14, 2020. https://ivypanda.com/essays/democracy-arguments-for-and-against/.

Bibliography

IvyPanda . "Democracy Arguments For and Against." March 14, 2020. https://ivypanda.com/essays/democracy-arguments-for-and-against/.

• Deliberative Democracy as an Improvement of Democratic Participation
• “The Barber of Buenos Aires”: Finance Case of Argentina
• Social Desirability Bias in Post-Graduate Students
• Ideology and Ideological State Apparatuses
• Analysis of Hugo Chavez and Muamar Gaddafi's Reign Through Machiavelli's Eye
• Machiavelli’s Views on Democratization and Their Relation to Modern Politics
• "The Corporation" by Joel Bakan
• The Effects of the American Correctional Policy

100 Words Essay On Democracy In English

Democracy is a system of government by the whole population or all the eligible members of a state, typically through elected representatives. India is the world’s largest democratic country.  The first known democracy in the world was in Athens. In today’s world, there are quite a lot of countries fighting for a democratic government. The reasons are due to the economic and social inequalities among the people are also increasing.

As much as people fight for a democratic government there are also drawbacks and arguments towards democracy because changes in leaders contribute to instability, just political conflict, no place for morality, consulting more individuals contributes to delays, ordinary people are unaware of what’s good for them, and it contributes to corruption.

Related Posts:

• How to Start the First Chapter of a Book?
• Goblin Market Poem by Christina Rossetti Summary, Notes and Line by Line Explanation in English
• Random Address Generator [United States]
• 100 Words Essay on Democracy in English
• Random Phrase Generator [English]
• Random Ability Generator Pokemon

Essay on Democracy and Poverty

Students are often asked to write an essay on Democracy and Poverty in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

100 Words Essay on Democracy and Poverty

Introduction.

Democracy and poverty are two important aspects of societal life. Democracy is the rule by the people, while poverty is a condition where people lack basic necessities.

The Link Between Democracy and Poverty

In a democracy, citizens have the right to vote and influence policies. Sadly, poverty can limit this power. Poor people may lack education to make informed decisions.

Democracy’s Role in Alleviating Poverty

Democracy can play a crucial role in reducing poverty. It can provide equal opportunities, and ensure that policies benefit everyone, including the poor.

While poverty can challenge democracy, a true democratic system can help alleviate poverty.

250 Words Essay on Democracy and Poverty

Democracy, a governance system that guarantees the freedom of expression, equality, and individual rights, is often seen as a solution for many societal problems. However, the relationship between democracy and poverty is complex and multifaceted.

The Democratic Promise

In theory, democracy should provide an environment conducive to economic growth and poverty reduction. Democratic systems encourage citizen participation, accountability, and transparency, which are vital for fair wealth distribution. They also protect civil liberties, enabling individuals to pursue economic opportunities.

Democracy’s Dilemma

However, democracy doesn’t always lead to poverty reduction. In some democracies, economic inequality persists due to various factors such as corruption, political instability, and inadequate social policies. The democratic process can also be manipulated by elites, leading to policies that favor the rich and exacerbate poverty.

Democracy and Poverty: The Interplay

Democracy and poverty have a reciprocal relationship. While poverty can hinder the consolidation of democracy as it may lead to political instability and social unrest, a well-functioning democracy can also help alleviate poverty by promoting fair distribution of resources and social justice.

In conclusion, democracy and poverty are intertwined in a complex nexus. While democracy holds the promise of poverty reduction, its effectiveness is dependent on the presence of robust institutions, rule of law, and an active civil society. Therefore, the challenge lies in strengthening democratic processes and institutions to ensure they serve as effective tools for poverty alleviation.

500 Words Essay on Democracy and Poverty

The interplay between democracy and poverty is a complex, yet integral aspect of political and economic discourse. Democracy, characterized by the rule of the majority and equality of political rights, often clashes with the grim realities of poverty, where resources and opportunities are unequally distributed. This essay delves into the intricate relationship between these two phenomena.

The Democratic Paradox

Democracy is often viewed as a panacea for many societal ills. Theoretically, it provides an environment conducive for the eradication of poverty, as the power to elect leaders lies with the people. However, the paradox emerges when democratic institutions fail to address poverty effectively. This failure can be attributed to a variety of factors, including political corruption, policy implementation challenges, and the short-term nature of democratic cycles.

Democracy, Poverty and Political Participation

Poverty can significantly impact political participation, a cornerstone of any democratic system. The economically disadvantaged often lack the resources and time to engage actively in political processes. Additionally, their immediate survival needs might overshadow long-term policy considerations, leading to a focus on short-term relief rather than sustainable solutions. This can result in the perpetuation of poverty, as policies may not address the structural causes of economic disadvantage.

The Role of Policy and Governance

The potential of democracy to alleviate poverty largely depends on the quality of governance and policy-making. Effective policies should aim to reduce income disparity, improve access to education and healthcare, and create opportunities for economic mobility. However, in many democracies, these policies are often influenced by the interests of the wealthy and powerful, leading to a skewed distribution of resources. This highlights the need for more inclusive and equitable policy-making processes.

Democracy as a Catalyst for Poverty Reduction

Despite these challenges, democracy can indeed serve as a catalyst for poverty reduction. Democratic systems, with their emphasis on human rights, freedom of speech, and political participation, can provide the necessary platform for marginalized groups to voice their concerns and influence policy-making. Moreover, democracies tend to have stronger civic institutions, which can play a crucial role in poverty alleviation through advocacy and service provision.

In conclusion, the relationship between democracy and poverty is multifaceted and heavily influenced by factors such as political participation, policy-making, and governance. While democracy alone cannot eradicate poverty, it can provide a platform for inclusive growth and equitable distribution of resources. However, for this potential to be realized, it is essential to address the inherent challenges within democratic systems and strive for a more inclusive and equitable form of democracy. The interplay between democracy and poverty thus presents an ongoing challenge that requires nuanced understanding and innovative solutions.

That’s it! I hope the essay helped you.

If you’re looking for more, here are essays on other interesting topics:

• Essay on Causes of Poverty
• Essay on Causes of Corruption
• Essay on Cat

Apart from these, you can look at all the essays by clicking here .

Happy studying!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Essay on Democracy for Students and Children in 1000+ Words

Here, you will read Essay on Democracy for Students and Children in 1000+ Words. It will include meaning, importance of democracy in India.

Table of Contents

Introduction (Essay on Democracy)

This is a very simple word known by all nowadays. Mostly in all countries democracy system is available. Public administration is called a democracy because the election of the people forms it.

Therefore, there is no system without an election. Democracy is the representative system of the people. It shows the goodwill of the entire community.

Meaning of democracy 

Democracy is a governance system under which the people have the right to choose their own ruler on their own.

Under this, every adult citizen, using his vote, chooses a ruler who will help in the development of the country. Along with it, it will maintain the unity and integrity of the country, and protect it from all wars. 

Under which every citizen of India was given the right to choose his ruler on his own free will, while under democracy, permission to use his vote by removing the feeling of inequality spread on caste, religion, gender, color, sects etc. 

Democracy in India

India is one of the world’s largest democratic countries, where people have the right to choose their favorite representatives.

In a democratic system, the people hand over the reins of the country for the benefit of their country and for the development of the country in the hands of a person who deserves it and helps in maintaining the unity and integrity of the country.

At the same time, India’s democracy works on five main principles, such as sovereign, that there is no interference of any foreign power in India; it is completely free. Socialists, vote is to provide social and economic equality to all citizens.

Secularism, whose vote ball is the freedom to adopt or refuse to adopt any religion. Democratic, which means the citizens of the country elect the government of India. Republic, which means the head of the country, is not a single hereditary king or queen.

There are many types of political parties in the country that stand to contest elections at the state and national levels every five years. But only that political party is ruled by the people who get the maximum vote of the people.

Role of democracy in election and voting system of India

Elections are an essential and important system in India’s universal, socialist, secular, and democratic republic. The election is an important system to form a government and to elect a representative.

Elections to the Lok Sabha or to the Legislative Assembly, in which all citizens of the country unite and exercise their franchise and elect their representative, every citizen over 18 years of age in the country can use his vote. 

The citizens of the country are also made aware of giving their votes from time to time. Let us tell you that elections are held every five years in our country, in which the citizens of the country use their votes to elect their representatives for the country’s development and progress.

India is a democratic country with 29 states and seven union territories in which elections are held every five years. At the same time, in these elections, political parties form their government by getting more votes of the people in the center and the state.

As we know, during elections, political parties make many promises to the people and encourage them to vote for their party. In such a situation, it is a challenge to choose the right and deserving candidate in front of the public. This is the fact that there are many political parties in India.

Democratic Principles of India

India is a democratic country that primarily works on five democratic principles – such as sovereign, socialist, secularism and democratic which are below –

The Democratic Republic of India operates on the sovereign’s principle, which means that India is free from interference by any foreign power, its rules, and regulations.

Socialists are also a democratic principle of India, whose vote is to provide economic equality and sociality to every citizen of our country by ignoring caste, religion, sect., gender, color, and creed.

India is a secular republic whose vote is that all citizens of India have the freedom to adopt and practice any religion as per their choice and choice, as there is no official religion in India.

India is a democratic republic, which means that India’s government is elected by the citizens of India without any caste discrimination and economic inequality.

Here, all citizens are given the right to vote in the same manner so that they choose the government of choice so that the country’s development can be strengthened and the country can become financially strong.

Ever since our country’s constitution came into force, India has been declared a secular and democratic republic; that is, the head of our country is not a hereditary king or queen, but it is elected by the Lok Sabha. The Rajya Sabha, which is decided by the people of Janardan, Is in hand.

10 Lines on Democracy

• Abraham Lincoln has told the meaning of democracy – for the people only- the people’s rule.
• Democracy consists of folk loyalty and folk spirit.
• In this, the importance of elections is first and foremost. This reflects public welfare.
• The Constitution has given place to democratic governance.
• The parliamentary system has been adopted in India and UK.
• In this, the elected representatives of the people run the country’s rule, keeping the public interest in view.
• There is a kind of representative democracy, in which clean and fair elections take place.
• It is difficult to give a completely correct and acceptable definition of democracy.
• Our Country India is well known in the world as the biggest democracy
• The age of casting a vote, and using its democratic right is 18 years.

At last, we can say that democracy system is the most popular and accepted of governance. Our country India’s democratic system is appreciated all over the country.

However, in India’s democracy, all the factors like illiteracy, poverty, and unemployment need to be eradicated to strengthen the country’s democracy and strengthen the country’s development.

But, still there a need for the improvement in the current democratic system of India. I hope you liked this informative essay on democracy.

Thanks for reading.

Leave a comment Cancel reply

Essay on Democracy in India for Students and Children

500+ words essay on democracy in india.

Essay on Democracy in India – First of all, democracy refers to a system of government where the citizens exercise power by voting. Democracy holds a special place in India. Furthermore, India without a doubt is the biggest democracy in the world. Also, the democracy of India is derived from the constitution of India. After suffering at the hands of British colonial rule, India finally became a democratic nation in 1947 . Most noteworthy, Indian democracy since independence is infused with the spirit of justice, liberty, and equality.

Features of Indian Democracy

Sovereignty is a vital feature of Indian democracy. Sovereignty refers to the full power of a governing body over itself without outside interference. Moreover, people can exercise power in Indian democracy . Most noteworthy, people of India elect their representatives. Moreover, these representatives remain responsible for common people.

The democracy in India works on the principle of political equality. Furthermore, it essentially means all citizens are equal before the law. Most noteworthy, there is no discrimination on the basis of religion , caste, creed, race, sect, etc. Hence, every Indian citizen enjoys equal political rights.

Rule of the majority is an essential feature of Indian democracy. Moreover, the party which wins the most seats forms and runs the government. Most noteworthy, no-one can object to support of the majority.

Another feature of Indian democracy is federal. Most noteworthy, India is a union of states. Furthermore, the states are somewhat autonomous. Moreover, the states enjoy freedom in certain matters.

Collective responsibility is a notable feature of Indian democracy. The council of Ministers in India is collectively responsible to their respective legislatures. Therefore, no minister alone is responsible for any act of their government.

Indian democracy works on the principle of formation of opinion. Furthermore, the government and its institutions must work on the basis of public opinion. Most noteworthy, public opinion must be formed on various matters in India. Moreover, the Legislature of India provides an appropriate platform to express public opinion.

Get the huge list of more than 500 Essay Topics and Ideas

Ways to Strengthen Democracy in India

First of all, people must stop having a blind belief in the media. Many times the news reported by media is out of context and exaggerated. Most noteworthy, some media outlets may propagate the propaganda of a particular political party. Therefore, people must be careful and cautious when accepting media news.

Another important way to strengthen the Indian democracy is to reject the consumer mentality in elections. Several Indians view national elections like consumers buying a product. Most noteworthy, elections should make Indians feel like participants rather than separatists.

People in India should make their voices heard. Furthermore, people must try to communicate with their elected official all year-round instead of just during elections. Therefore, citizens must write, call, email, or attend community forums to communicate with their elected official. This would surely strengthen Indian democracy.

Huge voter turnouts is really an efficient way to strengthen democracy in India. People must avoid hesitation and come out to vote. Most noteworthy, large voter turnout would signify a substantial involvement of the common people in Indian politics.

In conclusion, the democracy in India is something very precious. Furthermore, it is a gift of the patriotic national leaders to the citizens of India. Most noteworthy, the citizens of this country must realize and appreciate the great value of democracy. The democracy in India is certainly unique in the world.

{ “@context”: “https://schema.org”, “@type”: “FAQPage”, “mainEntity”: [{ “@type”: “Question”, “name”: “State any two features of Indian democracy?”, “acceptedAnswer”: { “@type”: “Answer”, “text”: “Two features of Indian democracy are the rule of the majority and collective responsibility.” } }, { “@type”: “Question”, “name”: “State any one way to strengthen democracy in India?”, “acceptedAnswer”: { “@type”: “Answer”, “text”:”One way to strengthen democracy in India is to reject the consumer mentality in elections.”} }] }

Customize your course in 30 seconds

Which class are you in.

• Travelling Essay
• Picnic Essay
• Our Country Essay
• My Parents Essay
• Essay on Favourite Personality
• Essay on Memorable Day of My Life
• Essay on Knowledge is Power
• Essay on Gurpurab
• Essay on My Favourite Season
• Essay on Types of Sports

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Download the App

Home — Essay Samples — Government & Politics — Democracy in America — Democracy in United States

Democracy in United States

• Categories: Democracy in America

About this sample

Words: 811 |

Published: Dec 12, 2018

Words: 811 | Pages: 2 | 5 min read

Cite this Essay

Let us write you an essay from scratch

• 450+ experts on 30 subjects ready to help
• Custom essay delivered in as few as 3 hours

Get high-quality help

Verified writer

• Expert in: Government & Politics

+ 120 experts online

By clicking “Check Writers’ Offers”, you agree to our terms of service and privacy policy . We’ll occasionally send you promo and account related email

No need to pay just yet!

Related Essays

3 pages / 1532 words

3 pages / 1372 words

8 pages / 3815 words

2 pages / 1097 words

Remember! This is just a sample.

You can get your custom paper by one of our expert writers.

121 writers online

Still can’t find what you need?

Browse our vast selection of original essay samples, each expertly formatted and styled

Related Essays on Democracy in America

With origins dating back to ancient Greece, democracy is regarded as one of the staple and founding features of the United States. It is a political system and a means for the people of a nation to choose their leaders and keep [...]

After over 16 years, it seemed as though the Democratic party was going to win since the Republican party split. The Democrats nominated Woodrow Wilson in 1912, in Baltimore on the 46th ballot. The Democratic party was filled [...]

In the last presidential election cycle, $1,977,700,000 was independently spent in support of Barrack Obama or Mitt Romney, $828 million of which was raised by political action committees (PACs). This money, enough to send [...]

The Difference Engine, co­written by William Gibson and Bruce Sterling, imagines an alternate historical outcome during the industrial era of Europe in the late 19th century. The book follows three characters with different [...]

What Caused the Clash Between Communism and Capitalism During the Cold War? The cold war was essentially a clash between two different ideologies: Communism and Capitalism. In Capitalistic Economy the free market determines [...]

The gradual and horrifically strange mutation of the titular canine of Mikhail Bulgakov’s novel Heart of a Dog into a ‘New Soviet Man’ provides an ideological counterpoint to the instantaneous and handsomely familiar [...]

Related Topics

By clicking “Send”, you agree to our Terms of service and Privacy statement . We will occasionally send you account related emails.

Where do you want us to send this sample?

By clicking “Continue”, you agree to our terms of service and privacy policy.

Be careful. This essay is not unique

This essay was donated by a student and is likely to have been used and submitted before

Download this Sample

Free samples may contain mistakes and not unique parts

Sorry, we could not paraphrase this essay. Our professional writers can rewrite it and get you a unique paper.

Please check your inbox.

We can write you a custom essay that will follow your exact instructions and meet the deadlines. Let's fix your grades together!

Get Your Personalized Essay in 3 Hours or Less!

We use cookies to personalyze your web-site experience. By continuing we’ll assume you board with our cookie policy .

• Instructions Followed To The Letter
• Deadlines Met At Every Stage
• Unique And Plagiarism Free

• CBSE Class 10th
• CBSE Class 12th
• UP Board 10th
• UP Board 12th
• Bihar Board 10th
• Bihar Board 12th
• Top Schools in India
• Top Schools in Delhi
• Top Schools in Mumbai
• Top Schools in Chennai
• Top Schools in Hyderabad
• Top Schools in Kolkata
• Top Schools in Pune
• Top Schools in Bangalore

Products & Resources

• JEE Main Knockout April
• Free Sample Papers
• Free Ebooks
• NCERT Notes
• NCERT Syllabus
• NCERT Books
• RD Sharma Solutions
• Navodaya Vidyalaya Admission 2024-25
• NCERT Solutions
• NCERT Solutions for Class 12
• NCERT Solutions for Class 11
• NCERT solutions for Class 10
• NCERT solutions for Class 9
• NCERT solutions for Class 8
• NCERT Solutions for Class 7
• JEE Main 2024
• MHT CET 2024
• JEE Advanced 2024
• BITSAT 2024
• View All Engineering Exams
• Colleges Accepting B.Tech Applications
• Top Engineering Colleges in India
• Engineering Colleges in India
• Engineering Colleges in Tamil Nadu
• Engineering Colleges Accepting JEE Main
• Top IITs in India
• Top NITs in India
• Top IIITs in India
• JEE Main College Predictor
• JEE Main Rank Predictor
• MHT CET College Predictor
• AP EAMCET College Predictor
• GATE College Predictor
• KCET College Predictor
• JEE Advanced College Predictor
• View All College Predictors
• JEE Main Question Paper
• JEE Main Cutoff
• JEE Main Advanced Admit Card
• AP EAPCET Hall Ticket
• Download E-Books and Sample Papers
• Compare Colleges
• B.Tech College Applications
• KCET Result
• MAH MBA CET Exam
• View All Management Exams

Colleges & Courses

• MBA College Admissions
• MBA Colleges in India
• Top IIMs Colleges in India
• Top Online MBA Colleges in India
• MBA Colleges Accepting XAT Score
• BBA Colleges in India
• XAT College Predictor 2024
• SNAP College Predictor
• NMAT College Predictor
• MAT College Predictor 2024
• CMAT College Predictor 2024
• CAT Percentile Predictor 2023
• CAT 2023 College Predictor
• CMAT 2024 Admit Card
• TS ICET 2024 Hall Ticket
• CMAT Result 2024
• MAH MBA CET Cutoff 2024
• Download Helpful Ebooks
• List of Popular Branches
• QnA - Get answers to your doubts
• IIM Fees Structure
• AIIMS Nursing
• Top Medical Colleges in India
• Top Medical Colleges in India accepting NEET Score
• Medical Colleges accepting NEET
• List of Medical Colleges in India
• List of AIIMS Colleges In India
• Medical Colleges in Maharashtra
• Medical Colleges in India Accepting NEET PG
• NEET College Predictor
• NEET PG College Predictor
• NEET MDS College Predictor
• NEET Rank Predictor
• DNB PDCET College Predictor
• NEET Admit Card 2024
• NEET PG Application Form 2024
• NEET Cut off
• NEET Online Preparation
• Download Helpful E-books
• Colleges Accepting Admissions
• Top Law Colleges in India
• Law College Accepting CLAT Score
• List of Law Colleges in India
• Top Law Colleges in Delhi
• Top NLUs Colleges in India
• Top Law Colleges in Chandigarh
• Top Law Collages in Lucknow

Predictors & E-Books

• CLAT College Predictor
• MHCET Law ( 5 Year L.L.B) College Predictor
• AILET College Predictor
• Sample Papers
• Compare Law Collages
• Careers360 Youtube Channel
• CLAT Syllabus 2025
• CLAT Previous Year Question Paper
• NID DAT Exam
• Pearl Academy Exam

Predictors & Articles

• NIFT College Predictor
• UCEED College Predictor
• NID DAT College Predictor
• NID DAT Syllabus 2025
• NID DAT 2025
• Design Colleges in India
• Top NIFT Colleges in India
• Fashion Design Colleges in India
• Top Interior Design Colleges in India
• Top Graphic Designing Colleges in India
• Fashion Design Colleges in Delhi
• Fashion Design Colleges in Mumbai
• Top Interior Design Colleges in Bangalore
• NIFT Result 2024
• NIFT Fees Structure
• NIFT Syllabus 2025
• Free Design E-books
• List of Branches
• Careers360 Youtube channel
• IPU CET BJMC
• JMI Mass Communication Entrance Exam
• IIMC Entrance Exam
• Media & Journalism colleges in Delhi
• Media & Journalism colleges in Bangalore
• Media & Journalism colleges in Mumbai
• List of Media & Journalism Colleges in India
• CA Intermediate
• CA Foundation
• CS Executive
• CS Professional
• Difference between CA and CS
• Difference between CA and CMA
• CA Full form
• CMA Full form
• CS Full form
• CA Salary In India

Top Courses & Careers

• Bachelor of Commerce (B.Com)
• Master of Commerce (M.Com)
• Company Secretary
• Cost Accountant
• Charted Accountant
• Credit Manager
• Financial Advisor
• Top Commerce Colleges in India
• Top Government Commerce Colleges in India
• Top Private Commerce Colleges in India
• Top M.Com Colleges in Mumbai
• Top B.Com Colleges in India
• IT Colleges in Tamil Nadu
• IT Colleges in Uttar Pradesh
• MCA Colleges in India
• BCA Colleges in India

Quick Links

• Information Technology Courses
• Programming Courses
• Web Development Courses
• Data Analytics Courses
• Big Data Analytics Courses
• RUHS Pharmacy Admission Test
• Top Pharmacy Colleges in India
• Pharmacy Colleges in Pune
• Pharmacy Colleges in Mumbai
• Colleges Accepting GPAT Score
• Pharmacy Colleges in Lucknow
• List of Pharmacy Colleges in Nagpur
• GPAT Result
• GPAT 2024 Admit Card
• GPAT Question Papers
• NCHMCT JEE 2024
• Mah BHMCT CET
• Top Hotel Management Colleges in Delhi
• Top Hotel Management Colleges in Hyderabad
• Top Hotel Management Colleges in Mumbai
• Top Hotel Management Colleges in Tamil Nadu
• Top Hotel Management Colleges in Maharashtra
• B.Sc Hotel Management
• Hotel Management
• Diploma in Hotel Management and Catering Technology

Diploma Colleges

• Top Diploma Colleges in Maharashtra
• UPSC IAS 2024
• SSC CGL 2024
• IBPS RRB 2024
• Previous Year Sample Papers
• Free Competition E-books
• Sarkari Result
• QnA- Get your doubts answered
• UPSC Previous Year Sample Papers
• CTET Previous Year Sample Papers
• SBI Clerk Previous Year Sample Papers
• NDA Previous Year Sample Papers

Upcoming Events

• NDA Application Form 2024
• UPSC IAS Application Form 2024
• CDS Application Form 2024
• CTET Admit card 2024
• HP TET Result 2023
• SSC GD Constable Admit Card 2024
• UPTET Notification 2024
• SBI Clerk Result 2024

Other Exams

• SSC CHSL 2024
• UP PCS 2024
• UGC NET 2024
• RRB NTPC 2024
• IBPS PO 2024
• IBPS Clerk 2024
• IBPS SO 2024
• Top University in USA
• Top University in Canada
• Top University in Ireland
• Top Universities in UK
• Top Universities in Australia
• Best MBA Colleges in Abroad
• Business Management Studies Colleges

Top Countries

• Study in USA
• Study in UK
• Study in Canada
• Study in Australia
• Study in Ireland
• Study in Germany
• Study in China
• Study in Europe

Student Visas

• Student Visa Canada
• Student Visa UK
• Student Visa USA
• Student Visa Australia
• Student Visa Germany
• Student Visa New Zealand
• Student Visa Ireland
• CUET PG 2024
• IGNOU B.Ed Admission 2024
• DU Admission 2024
• UP B.Ed JEE 2024
• LPU NEST 2024
• IIT JAM 2024
• IGNOU Online Admission 2024
• Universities in India
• Top Universities in India 2024
• Top Colleges in India
• Top Universities in Uttar Pradesh 2024
• Top Universities in Bihar
• Top Universities in Madhya Pradesh 2024
• Top Universities in Tamil Nadu 2024
• Central Universities in India
• CUET Exam City Intimation Slip 2024
• IGNOU Date Sheet
• CUET Mock Test 2024
• CUET Admit card 2024
• CUET PG Syllabus 2024
• CUET Participating Universities 2024
• CUET Previous Year Question Paper
• CUET Syllabus 2024 for Science Students
• E-Books and Sample Papers
• CUET Exam Pattern 2024
• CUET Exam Date 2024
• CUET Cut Off 2024
• CUET Exam Analysis 2024
• IGNOU Exam Form 2024
• CUET 2024 Exam Live
• CUET Answer Key 2024

Engineering Preparation

• Knockout JEE Main 2024
• Test Series JEE Main 2024
• JEE Main 2024 Rank Booster

Medical Preparation

• Knockout NEET 2024
• Test Series NEET 2024
• Rank Booster NEET 2024

Online Courses

• JEE Main One Month Course
• NEET One Month Course
• IBSAT Free Mock Tests
• IIT JEE Foundation Course
• Knockout BITSAT 2024
• Career Guidance Tool

Top Streams

• IT & Software Certification Courses
• Engineering and Architecture Certification Courses
• Programming And Development Certification Courses
• Business and Management Certification Courses
• Marketing Certification Courses
• Health and Fitness Certification Courses
• Design Certification Courses

Specializations

• Digital Marketing Certification Courses
• Cyber Security Certification Courses
• Artificial Intelligence Certification Courses
• Business Analytics Certification Courses
• Data Science Certification Courses
• Cloud Computing Certification Courses
• Machine Learning Certification Courses
• View All Certification Courses
• UG Degree Courses
• PG Degree Courses
• Short Term Courses
• Free Courses
• Online Degrees and Diplomas
• Compare Courses

Top Providers

• Coursera Courses
• Udemy Courses
• Edx Courses
• Swayam Courses
• upGrad Courses
• Simplilearn Courses
• Great Learning Courses

Democracy In India Essay

Democracy is regarded as the best type of government since it allows citizens to directly elect their leaders. They have access to a number of rights that are fundamental to anyone's ability to live freely and peacefully. There are many democratic countries in the world, but India is by far the biggest. Here are a few sample essays on the topic ‘Democracy In India’.

100 Words Essay On Democracy

200 words essay on democracy, 500 words essay on democracy.

Democracy is a term used to describe a form of government in which the people have a voice by voting. Democracy is an essential part of any society, and India is no exception. After years of suffering under British colonial control, India attained democracy in 1947. India places a great emphasis on democracy. India is also without a doubt the largest democracy in the world.

The spirit of justice, liberty, and equality has permeated Indian democracy ever since the country attained independence. As the world’s largest democracy, India has been a shining example of how democracy can foster progress and ensure rights for all its citizens.

In a democracy, the people have the ultimate say in how their government is run. They elect representatives to represent them in government, and they can hold those representatives accountable through regular elections. And finally, the rule of law is important in a democracy to ensure that everyone is treated equally before the law and that the government operates within its proper bounds. Democracy has been a recent phenomena in human history, only really taking root in the last few centuries. But it has quickly become one of the most popular forms of government around the world. India is one of the world’s largest democracies, with over 1 billion people living within its borders.

India's constitution serves as the foundation for its democracy. The Indian Constitution guarantees equality for all citizens regardless of caste, creed, or religion. It also establishes a system of representative government, with elected officials at the national, state, and local levels. And finally, it enshrines the rule of law by establishing an independent judiciary to interpret and uphold the Constitution.

There are many different types of democracy, but most modern democracies are based on the principles of popular sovereignty, representative government, and rule of law and public opinion.

There are two main types of democracies—direct and representative. Direct democracy allows citizens to participate directly in the decision-making process, while representative democracy allows citizens to elect representatives to make decisions on their behalf. The advantages of democracy in India include the fact that it allows for greater participation of citizens in the political process, and it also provides checks and balances on the government. The disadvantages of democracy in India include the fact that it can be slow to make decisions and that it can be difficult to hold people accountable for their actions.

Features Of Indian Democracy

Sovereignty | One important aspect of Indian democracy is sovereignty. The absolute control a governing body has over itself without external influence is referred to as sovereignty. In India's democracy, people can also exert their power. The fact that Indians choose their representatives is remarkable. Furthermore, these officials continue to be accountable to the general public.

Political Equality | It is the foundation of Indian democracy. It also simply means that everyone is treated equally under the law. The fact that there is no discrimination based on caste, religion, race, creed, or sect is particularly notable. As a result, all Indian citizens have equal political rights.

Rule Of Majority | A key component of Indian democracy is the rule of the majority. Furthermore, the winning party creates and governs the government. In addition, the party with the most seats creates and governs the country. Most importantly, no one can object to majority support.

Socialist | Being socialist implies that the country continuously prioritises the needs of its citizens. The poor person should be offered numerous incentives, and their fundamental needs should be met by any means necessary.

Secular | There is no such thing as a "state religion," and there is no discrimination based on religion in this nation. In the eyes of the law, all religions must be equal; it is not acceptable to discriminate against anyone based on their religion. Everyone has the right to practise and spread any religion, and they are free to do so at any moment.

Advantages And Disadvantages Of Democracy In India

There are many advantages and disadvantages of democracy in India. On the one hand, democracy gives everyone an equal say in how the country is run. This is particularly important in a country as large and diverse as India. On the other hand, democracy can also be slow and chaotic, and it can be difficult to get things done. One advantage of democracy in India is that it ensures that everyone has a say in how the country is run. This is especially important in a country as large and diverse as India.

There are many different languages spoken in India, and democracy ensures that everyone has a voice. Another advantage of democracy in India is that it leads to more stability than other forms of government. In a dictatorship, for example, one person has all the power. This can lead to them making decisions that are not in the best interests of the country. In a democracy, there are checks and balances in place so that no one person has too much power.

Applications for Admissions are open.

Aakash iACST Scholarship Test 2024

Get up to 90% scholarship on NEET, JEE & Foundation courses

ALLEN Digital Scholarship Admission Test (ADSAT)

Register FREE for ALLEN Digital Scholarship Admission Test (ADSAT)

JEE Main Important Physics formulas

As per latest 2024 syllabus. Physics formulas, equations, & laws of class 11 & 12th chapters

PW JEE Coaching

Enrol in PW Vidyapeeth center for JEE coaching

PW NEET Coaching

Enrol in PW Vidyapeeth center for NEET coaching

JEE Main Important Chemistry formulas

As per latest 2024 syllabus. Chemistry formulas, equations, & laws of class 11 & 12th chapters

Download Careers360 App's

Regular exam updates, QnA, Predictors, College Applications & E-books now on your Mobile

Certifications

We Appeared in

Shays’ Rebellion: a Turning Point in Early American Democracy

This essay about Shays’ Rebellion provides an overview of the key events and consequences of the 1786-1787 uprising in western Massachusetts. It discusses the economic and political pressures that led to the rebellion, notably high taxes and debts that burdened the rural population, particularly war veterans like Daniel Shays. The essay outlines how the rebellion unfolded, from the closure of local courts to the failed attempt to seize the Springfield Armory, and the eventual suppression by a state militia. The aftermath, which included legislative changes to ease economic pressures, is also covered. Importantly, the essay explains the rebellion’s significant impact on the drafting of the U.S. Constitution, highlighting its role in prompting a stronger federal government capable of managing economic policy and maintaining order. This historical episode illustrates the challenges of balancing authority and liberty in a young democracy.

How it works

The newly independent states had to deal with both the immediate economic difficulties that came with peace and the difficult task of constructing a stable government during the turbulent years after the American Revolution. During this period, Shays’ Rebellion, which broke out in western Massachusetts between 1786 and 1787, was one of the more spectacular events. This was a significant event that had a lasting impact on the political and social development of the fledgling United States, not merely a local disturbance.

At the heart of the rebellion were the economic distress and the policies that seemed to favor the elite at the expense of the average farmer.

Veterans of the war, like Daniel Shays, returned home to find themselves in a financial bind, with their livelihoods threatened by debts and taxes they couldn’t pay. Massachusetts, burdened with its own war debts, levied high taxes that fell heavily on these rural farmers, many of whom faced the loss of their farms and imprisonment for debts.

Shays, a former captain in the Continental Army, became the reluctant figurehead for this uprising. He and his followers, comprising several thousand aggrieved individuals, targeted courthouses and other symbols of the oppressive government to prevent judges from foreclosing on debt-ridden farmers. The climax came in January 1787 when the rebels attempted to seize the federal Springfield Armory, a bold move that ultimately failed.

The rebellion was quelled by a state militia, but the aftermath saw a shift in policies with the passing of laws to ease the economic burden on debtors. This episode laid bare the weaknesses in the Articles of Confederation, particularly the lack of a strong federal authority to manage economic policy and maintain order.

The impact of Shays’ Rebellion was significant in spurring the call for a stronger central government, leading directly to the Constitutional Convention of 1787. It was clear from the disorder that the country needed a new framework that could balance the needs of the states with the need for a federal authority capable of keeping peace and ensuring economic stability.

The rebellion also had a lasting effect on the Constitution itself. It influenced the debates at the Constitutional Convention, where the framers sought to create a government that could handle such crises effectively without trampling on the liberties they had just fought a war to protect. The result was a constitution that offered a more robust federal structure, complete with the ability to impose taxes and manage uprisings more effectively.

Shays’ Rebellion is often seen today as a testament to the teething problems of American democracy. It serves as a reminder of the need for a responsive government, the dangers of economic inequality, and the constant balancing act between maintaining order and upholding freedom. Reflecting on this incident helps us appreciate the delicate dance between power and liberty—a dance that continues in our political institutions to this day.

In summary, while Shays’ Rebellion may have been a failed attempt at military action, it succeeded in pushing American leaders to reconsider and strengthen the framework of their government, ensuring that the fledgling nation would not be undone by the very freedoms it aimed to uphold.

Cite this page

Shays' Rebellion: A Turning Point in Early American Democracy. (2024, May 12). Retrieved from https://papersowl.com/examples/shays-rebellion-a-turning-point-in-early-american-democracy/

"Shays' Rebellion: A Turning Point in Early American Democracy." PapersOwl.com , 12 May 2024, https://papersowl.com/examples/shays-rebellion-a-turning-point-in-early-american-democracy/

PapersOwl.com. (2024). Shays' Rebellion: A Turning Point in Early American Democracy . [Online]. Available at: https://papersowl.com/examples/shays-rebellion-a-turning-point-in-early-american-democracy/ [Accessed: 17 May. 2024]

"Shays' Rebellion: A Turning Point in Early American Democracy." PapersOwl.com, May 12, 2024. Accessed May 17, 2024. https://papersowl.com/examples/shays-rebellion-a-turning-point-in-early-american-democracy/

"Shays' Rebellion: A Turning Point in Early American Democracy," PapersOwl.com , 12-May-2024. [Online]. Available: https://papersowl.com/examples/shays-rebellion-a-turning-point-in-early-american-democracy/. [Accessed: 17-May-2024]

PapersOwl.com. (2024). Shays' Rebellion: A Turning Point in Early American Democracy . [Online]. Available at: https://papersowl.com/examples/shays-rebellion-a-turning-point-in-early-american-democracy/ [Accessed: 17-May-2024]

Don't let plagiarism ruin your grade

Hire a writer to get a unique paper crafted to your needs.

Our writers will help you fix any mistakes and get an A+!

Please check your inbox.

You can order an original essay written according to your instructions.

Trusted by over 1 million students worldwide

1. Tell Us Your Requirements

2. Pick your perfect writer

3. Get Your Paper and Pay

Hi! I'm Amy, your personal assistant!

Don't know where to start? Give me your paper requirements and I connect you to an academic expert.

short deadlines

100% Plagiarism-Free

Certified writers

Along with Stanford news and stories, show me:

• Student information
• Faculty/Staff information

We want to provide announcements, events, leadership messages and resources that are relevant to you. Your selection is stored in a browser cookie which you can remove at any time using “Clear all personalization” below.

• A fall quarter course uses Ancient Athens as a case study to explore practical and philosophical questions about how democracy functions.
• For ancient Athenians, political participation was intertwined with leading an ethical life; being part of a well-run society was seen as essential to human flourishing.
• At the heart of the decision-making process was the “demos” – the Greek word for people – and the “kratos” – the Greek word for rule.
• Knowing they would be called upon to deal with difficult issues had a profound effect on the way Athenian citizens related with the world around them.

With over 4 billion citizens in some 65 countries participating in an election in 2024, the year is being heralded as a historic period – and test – for democracy . In a winter quarter course at Stanford, students examined another important time for self-government: the fifth century BCE, when democracy first emerged.

Each week, Stanford political scientist and classicist Josiah Ober conjured what political life was like in the Greek city-state of Athens to the mix of undergraduate, graduate, and postdoctoral students taking POLISCI 231A: Democracy Ancient and Modern: From Politics to Political Theory . Ober drew on texts by contemporary Greek historians and political theorists who focus on ancient democracy to explore with students some of the issues ancient Athenians grappled with as they put self-government into practice.

For Ober, who has studied ancient and modern political thought for over four decades, ancient Athens makes for an interesting case study for students and scholars to examine how democracy functions and the different forms this mode of government can take.

In a winter quarter course, political scientist and classicist Josiah Ober teaches students about the foundations of democracy. | Andrew Brodhead

“It gives you these possibilities of the different ways democracy could be done,” said Ober, the Markos & Eleni Kounalakis Chair in Honor of Constantine Mitsotakis in the School of Humanities and Sciences . “History gives you some advantages to test a political theory and find out if it could possibly work.”

Other ways to do democracy

In running their democracy, ancient Athenians did many things differently that students considered closely throughout the course.

For one, the political life of its citizens was incredibly active.

Unlike the American system of representative democracy, where citizens vote for elected officials to represent their concerns in government, rule in Ancient Greece was direct: Participation was not a choice but a civic duty.

For ancient Athenians, being political was intertwined with leading an ethical life: Being part of a well-run society was seen as essential to human flourishing.

As Ober explained, by the time an Athenian citizen was 30 years old, it was highly likely they had already participated in the Assembly – the governing body where 5,000 or 6,000 citizens regularly met to vote on important issues of the day – or even served on the Council, a group of 500 citizens randomly chosen by lottery to serve 10-month terms to help set the Assembly’s agenda (ancient Athenians frequently drew on lotteries to distribute civic responsibilities among its citizens; in the U.S., they are scarcely used – the only thing close is jury duty).

For Athenian citizens, knowing they would be called upon to deal with difficult issues and decisions – like whether to go to war – had a profound effect on the way they related with the world around them.

“The way in which Athenians conducted their lives was highly influenced by the fact that they were going to have some real responsibility for their community,” Ober said. “When an Athenian went to the Assembly and voted for war, he was sending himself to war.”

Democracy isn’t something that is inherent or is going to be given to you. It’s something that you need to work at.” Cameron Adams, ’24 Senior majoring in political science

At the heart of the Assembly’s decision-making process was the “demos” – the Greek word for people – and the “kratos” – the Greek word for rule (the etymological root of democracy comes from these two words).

In a class seminar devoted to deliberation, Ober described how the citizen Assembly made decisions and how those decisions represented the will of the demos, the collective judgment of the people about the best available course of action. The class then discussed some of the tensions that arise when conceptualizing a large, diverse population as a monolithic entity.

They also debated questions about accountability. If the decisions made by the Assembly were that of the demos, did that mean that individuals were no longer responsible for the decisions they contributed to making? Which raised another question: What does a democracy look like when officials are accountable to the people, but “the people” are accountable to no one?

Tackling complex questions like these – which are political, philosophical, and practical in nature – formed the basis of many of the students’ discussions.

For Michael Thomas, a second-year PhD student who took the course, examining how the ancient Greeks approached civic engagement and education has made him think about what could happen if American society did something similar.

Michael Thomas is a second-year PhD student in the Department of Political Science. | Andrew Brodhead

“We ask ourselves a lot about how to do democratic education and a great deal of it for the Greeks was by doing, such as governing through the Assembly and holding office,” Thomas said. “I think people would feel more committed to democracy if they experienced it in their own lives through participating in collective action.”

Learning from limitations

But not everyone in ancient Athens was able to participate in political life.

Excluded from the franchise were women and slaves – not too dissimilar to the limitations America’s Founding Fathers set when they wrote the Declaration of Independence, Constitution, and the Bill of Rights in the late 18th century.

For political science major Cameron Adams, ’24, learning how Athenians restricted democratic participation has helped them better understand barriers in American democracy.

“We modeled our democracy after Athenian democracy, which was flawed, so it makes sense that our system is flawed,” said Adams, who took two of the courses Ober taught in winter quarter.

I think people would feel more committed to democracy if they experienced it in their own lives through participating in collective action.” Michael Thomas Second-year PhD student in the Department of Political Science

Even with a series of reforms in the 20th century that expanded and protected U.S. voting rights to include women and people of color, there are still groups of Americans today who are ineligible to participate in an election. For example, people with a criminal conviction may be blocked from voting in their state. People have also become disenfranchised by being forced to face long wait times at polling stations or not being provided enough places to vote .

While learning how ancient Athenians grappled with who was and was not able to participate in democratic life, Adams considered contemporary problems like these. One essay Adams read that they found particularly relevant examined the ways in which women and slaves in ancient Athens found ways to speak out against the injustices they faced.

“It illuminates that democracy isn’t something that is inherent or is going to be given to you,” Adams said. “It’s something that you need to work at.”