What is Democracy – Why Democracy – Best 100 MCQs

What is Democracy – Why Democracy – Best 100 MCQs. Class 9 Political Science / Civics Chapter 1 MCQs. These 100 Multiple Choice Questions with Answer and Explanation will help you score full marks in your class 9 Social Science (Polity) exam.

What is Democracy - Why Democracy - Best 100 MCQs

[What is Democracy?] – What is Democracy – Why Democracy – Best 100 MCQs

Question 1: What is the primary reason for needing a clear definition of democracy?

A. To distinguish it from other forms of government

B. To understand its Greek origins

C. To avoid lengthy debates

D. To appease critics of democracy

Answer
Answer: A. There is need for a clear definition because the term ‘democracy’ is used for different purposes and various governments claim to be democratic, even if they aren’t.

Question 2: What is the simplest definition of democracy?

A. Rule by the people

B. Government of the people, by the people, for the people

C. A form of government where rulers are elected by the people

D. A system where everyone has an equal say

Answer
Answer: C. The chapter starts with this basic definition and then builds upon it to explore its nuances.

Question 3: Why does the chapter suggest that the simple definition of democracy is not enough?

A. It’s too complex.

B. It doesn’t account for the diversity of governments.

C. It might lead to classifying any government with elections as a democracy.

D. It’s outdated.

Answer
Answer: C. Many non-democratic governments hold elections, so a more nuanced understanding is needed.

Question 4: What is the primary concern with relying solely on the etymology of the word “democracy” to define it?

A. The Greek language is no longer relevant.

B. The meaning of words can change over time.

C. Etymology is too complex for most people to understand.

D. It ignores the cultural context of democracy.

Answer
Answer: B. The chapter uses the example of “computers” to illustrate how the meaning of words can evolve, making etymology an unreliable sole basis for definition.

Question 5: Why is it important to think critically about the definition of democracy, rather than simply accepting a popular one?

A. Popular definitions are always wrong.

B. Critical thinking is a valuable skill.

C. We should not accept something just because it’s widely accepted.

D. Definitions are subjective and have no real meaning.

Answer
Answer: C. The chapter encourages readers to engage in thoughtful consideration rather than blindly accepting prevailing ideas.

Question 6: What is the significance of the quote by Abraham Lincoln: “Democracy is government of the people, by the people, and for the people”?

A. It’s the only accurate definition of democracy

B. It’s a widely accepted and eloquent definitioC. It’s outdated and irrelevant

D. It’s too simplistic

Answer
Answer: B. The chapter acknowledges the beauty and helpfulness of this definition but also suggests it might not be comprehensive enough.

Question 7: What is the main challenge in defining democracy?

A. There’s no single, universally accepted definitioB. The concept is too abstract

C. It’s constantly evolving

D. Different cultures have different interpretations

Answer
Answer: A. The chapter highlights the lack of a single, definitive definition and the need to analyze various perspectives.

Question 8: What is the first step in understanding the meaning of democracy, according to the chapter?

A. Studying its Greek origins

B. Analyzing famous quotes about democracy

C. Examining different forms of government

D. Engaging in personal reflection and discussio

Answer
Answer: D. The chapter emphasizes the importance of independent thinking and dialogue in understanding democracy.
  

Question 9: What is the common feature identified in all democracies?

A. The government is chosen by the people

B. There is a written constitutioC. Everyone has the right to vote

D. There is a separation of powers

Answer
Answer: A. This is presented as the simplest common factor among democracies.

Question 10: Why is the example of Myanmar’s army rulers used in the chapter?

A. To illustrate a democratic government

B. To highlight the importance of elections

C. To contrast with a democratic government

D. To show the complexities of military rule

Answer
Answer: C. Myanmar’s army rulers are used to exemplify a non-democratic government where people have no say in choosing their leaders.

Question 11: Which of the following is NOT mentioned as a non-democratic form of government in the chapter?

A. Military rule

B. Dictatorship

C. Monarchy

D. Oligarchy

Answer
Answer: D. While oligarchy is a non-democratic form of government, it is not explicitly mentioned in this chapter.

Question 12: What is the main problem with calling any government that holds elections a democracy?

A. It oversimplifies the concept of democracy

B. It ignores the quality of the elections

C. It excludes countries with non-elected leaders

D. It creates confusion among different political systems

Answer
Answer: A. The chapter argues that simply holding elections doesn’t guarantee a democratic government, as many non-democratic regimes also conduct elections.

Question 13: What is the purpose of carefully distinguishing between a democracy and a government that pretends to be one?

A. To avoid political conflicts

B. To promote international relations

C. To ensure accurate political analysis

D. To maintain global peace

Answer
Answer: C. The chapter stresses the importance of distinguishing between genuine democracies and those that merely appear democratic to ensure accurate understanding and analysis.

Question 14: What additional feature is added to the definition of democracy beyond the simple election of rulers?

A. A written constitutioB. Protection of minority rights

C. Freedom of speech

D. The final decision-making power rests with those elected by the people

Answer
Answer: D. This is highlighted as the first crucial feature of a democracy.

Question 15: Why is the example of Pakistan under General Musharraf used in the chapter?

A. To illustrate a successful democracy

B. To demonstrate the importance of military rule

C. To show how elections alone don’t make a democracy

D. To highlight the challenges of transitioning to democracy

Answer
Answer: C. Pakistan under Musharraf is used to show how a country can have elections and elected representatives but still not be a true democracy if the final power doesn’t rest with them.

Question 16: What is the key takeaway from the example of Pakistan under General Musharraf?

A. Military rule is always undemocratic

B. Elected representatives should have the final decision-making power in a democracy

C. Referendums are undemocratic

D. The President should be elected directly by the people

Answer
Answer: B. The chapter emphasizes that in a democracy, the ultimate power must lie with those chosen by the people.

Question 17: What is the primary concern raised about the elections in China?

A. Low voter turnout

B. Lack of transparency

C. Absence of a real choice

D. Violence and intimidatio

Answer
Answer: C. The chapter points out that in China, elections don’t offer a genuine choice as candidates need approval from the ruling party and only certain parties can contest.
   

Question 18: What was the main issue with elections in Mexico until 2000?

A. The ruling party couldn’t be defeated

B. There was no oppositioC. Elections were held too frequently

D. There was widespread voter fraud

Answer
Answer: A. Although Mexico held regular elections, the ruling party used various tactics to ensure its victory, making it practically impossible for the opposition to win.

Question 19: What is the second feature added to the understanding of democracy based on the examples of China and Mexico?

A. Elections must be free and fair

B. There should be multiple political parties

C. The media should be independent

D. The ruling party should not have an unfair advantage

Answer
Answer: A. The chapter concludes that elections must offer a genuine choice and a fair chance for the opposition to win.

Question 20: Which of the following countries denied women the right to vote until recently?

A. Estonia

B. Fiji

C. Saudi Arabia

D. Mexico

Answer
Answer: C. The chapter mentions that Saudi Arabia only granted women the right to vote in 2015.

Question 21: What is the third feature of democracy derived from the principle of political equality?

A. Universal adult franchise

B. One person, one vote, one value

C. Equal representation for all groups

D. Protection of minority rights

Answer
Answer: B. The chapter states that each adult citizen should have one vote, and each vote should carry equal weight.

Question 22: Why is the example of Zimbabwe used in the chapter?

A. To showcase a model democracy

B. To illustrate the dangers of a one-party system

C. To demonstrate how popular governments can be undemocratic

D. To highlight the importance of a free press

Answer
Answer: C. Zimbabwe’s case is used to show how a popularly elected leader can become autocratic and undermine democratic principles.

Question 23: What is the fourth and final feature of democracy identified in the chapter?

A. A democratic government rules within limits set by constitutional law and citizens’ rights

B. A democratic government must have a separation of powers

C. A democratic government should prioritize economic development

D. A democratic government should promote social equality

Answer
Answer: A. The chapter concludes that a democratic government must be bound by rules and procedures established in the constitution.

[Features of Democracy] – What is Democracy – Why Democracy – Best 100 MCQs

Question 25: In a democracy, where should the final decision-making power rest?

A. With the military leaders

B. With the wealthiest individuals

C. With those elected by the people

D. With religious leaders

Answer
Answer: C. The chapter emphasizes that the final decision-making power in a democracy must reside with the elected representatives of the people.

Question 26: Which of the following is NOT a feature of a democratic election?

A. Offers a real choice between political alternatives

B. Allows people to remove the existing rulers if they wish

C. Ensures the victory of the ruling party

D. Is based on free and fair competitio

Answer
Answer: C. A democratic election should provide a fair chance for the opposition to win, and the ruling party should not be guaranteed victory.
   

Question 27: The principle of “one person, one vote, one value” emphasizes:

A. Political equality

B. Economic equality

C. Social equality

D. Religious equality

Answer
Answer: A. This principle underscores that in a democracy, every adult citizen’s vote should carry equal weight, regardless of their background.

Question 28: Which of the following scenarios illustrates a violation of the “one person, one vote, one value” principle?

A. A country where only citizens above a certain income level can vote

B. A country where the votes of certain ethnic groups count more than others

C. A country where elections are held every four years

D. A country where the president is elected directly by the people

Answer
Answer: B. This scenario directly contradicts the principle of equal voting power for all citizens.

Question 29: The example of Zimbabwe under Robert Mugabe is used to illustrate:

A. A successful democracy

B. The importance of a strong leader

C. How a popular government can be undemocratic

D. The benefits of a one-party system

Answer
Answer: C. Zimbabwe’s case demonstrates how even a popularly elected leader can manipulate the system and become autocratic.

Question 30: Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of an undemocratic government, as exemplified by Zimbabwe under Mugabe?

A. Harassment of opposition party workers

B. Restriction of public protests

C. Control of media by the government

D. Independent judiciary with power to check the government

Answer
Answer: D. In Zimbabwe, the government undermined the judiciary’s independence, making it unable to effectively check the government’s actions.

Question 31: What is the fourth and final feature of democracy identified in the chapter?

A. A democratic government rules within limits set by constitutional law and citizens’ rights

B. A democratic government must have a separation of powers

C. A democratic government should prioritize economic development

D. A democratic government should promote social equality

Answer
Answer: A. This feature emphasizes that even a democratically elected government must operate within the boundaries set by the constitution and respect the rights of its citizens.

Question 32: Which of the following is NOT an essential condition for a democracy?

A. Free and fair elections

B. Rule of law

C. Respect for citizens’ rights

D. A single, dominant political party

Answer
Answer: D. A democracy thrives on political competition and the presence of multiple parties offering different choices to the electorate.

Question 33: What is the primary role of the judiciary in a democracy?

A. To make laws

B. To enforce laws

C. To protect citizens’ rights and uphold the rule of law

D. To advise the government on policy matters

Answer
Answer: C. An independent judiciary is crucial in a democracy to safeguard citizens’ rights and ensure that the government acts within the bounds of the law.

Question 34: Why is it important for a democratic government to respect the rights of minorities?

A. To avoid social unrest

B. To ensure everyone feels included and represented

C. To comply with international human rights standards

D. To maintain its popularity

Answer
Answer: B. Respecting minority rights is essential for creating a truly inclusive society where all citizens feel valued and represented.

Question 35: Which of the following is NOT a key feature of democracy as summarized in the chapter?

A. Rulers elected by the people take all the major decisions

B. Elections offer a choice and fair opportunity to change the current rulers

C. This choice and opportunity is available to all the people on an equal basis

D. The exercise of this choice leads to a government with unlimited power

Answer
Answer: D. A democratic government’s power is limited by the constitution and citizens’ rights, ensuring it doesn’t become tyrannical.

Question 36: What is the significance of active political participation by citizens in a democracy?

A. It ensures the government’s popularity

B. It prevents corruptioC. It’s the foundation upon which democracy functions

D. It leads to faster decision-making

Answer
Answer: C. Democracy relies on the active involvement of citizens in the political process, making their participation crucial for its success.

Question 37: How does democracy differ from other forms of government in terms of citizen participation?

A. Democracy discourages citizen participatioB. Democracy requires active political participation from all citizens

C. Democracy limits citizen participation to voting

D. Democracy allows only a select group of citizens to participate in politics

Answer
Answer: B. Unlike non-democratic governments that often discourage or restrict political participation, democracy depends on the active involvement of all its citizens.

Question 38: What is the focus of the study of democracy, according to the chapter?

A. The role of the government

B. The rights of citizens

C. Democratic politics

D. The history of democracy

Answer
Answer: C. Since democracy relies on active citizen participation, the study of democracy must center on the dynamics of democratic politics.

Question 39: Which of the following best describes the concept of a “good democracy”?

A. A democracy where the ruling party always wins

B. A democracy with a strong leader who makes all the decisions

C. A democracy that strives to realize the ideals of democratic decision-making

D. A democracy with minimal citizen participatio

Answer
Answer: C. A “good democracy” goes beyond the minimum conditions and actively works towards achieving the ideals of democratic governance.
   

Question 40: What is the main challenge in achieving a “good democracy”?

A. It requires constant effort and vigilance

B. It’s impossible to achieve in reality

C. It depends solely on the actions of the rulers

D. It’s too idealistic and impractical

Answer
Answer: A. The chapter emphasizes that creating and maintaining a “good democracy” is an ongoing process that demands continuous effort from both citizens and the government.

Question 41: How does the chapter define the role of citizens in shaping the quality of democracy in their country?

A. Citizens have no role; it’s solely the government’s responsibility

B. Citizens’ actions can make a country more or less democratic

C. Citizens should only participate in elections

D. Citizens should blindly follow the government’s decisions

Answer
Answer: B. The chapter highlights the crucial role citizens play in determining the success and quality of democracy in their nation.

Question 42: What is the central idea conveyed in the cartoon by R.K. Laxman commenting on India’s 50 years of independence?

A. The common people are disconnected from the celebrations and feel left out of the progress

B. India has achieved tremendous progress in 50 years of independence

C. The government is solely responsible for India’s development

D. The common people are actively participating in the celebrations

Answer
Answer: A. The cartoon depicts a contrast between the official celebrations and the common man’s sense of alienation from the progress.

Question 43: What is the broader meaning of democracy beyond its application to government?

A. A method of taking decisions involving consultation and consent of all affected

B. A system where the majority always rules

C. A form of government with a written constitutioD. A society with complete economic equality

Answer
Answer: A. The chapter expands the concept of democracy to include any decision-making process that involves consultation and equal participation of all stakeholders.

Question 44: Which of the following statements reflects a broader understanding of democracy?

A. “Our school principal makes all the decisions without consulting the teachers or students.”

B. “In our community, we hold regular meetings where everyone’s opinion is valued and considered before making any decision.”

C. “The government decides all policies without any input from the citizens.”

D. “Only the wealthy and educated have a say in how our organization is run.”

Answer
Answer: B. This statement exemplifies the broader application of democracy, where decisions are made through consultation and equal participation.

Question 45: What is the purpose of understanding democracy as an ideal?

A. To create unrealistic expectations

B. To criticize existing democracies

C. To provide a standard for evaluating and improving democracies

D. To promote a utopian vision of society

Answer
Answer: C. Viewing democracy as an ideal allows us to assess the shortcomings of existing democracies and work towards improving them.

Question 46: Which of the following statements represents democracy as an ideal?

A. “India is a perfect democracy with no flaws.”

B. “True democracy will be achieved when everyone has access to quality education and healthcare.”

C. “Democracy is only about holding elections” 

D. “It’s a necessary condition for a country to be considered democratic.”

Answer
Answer: C. The chapter argues that while elections are important, they are not the sole defining feature of democracy. Other factors like citizen participation and government accountability are also crucial.

Question 47: What is the most common form of democracy in the world today?

A. Direct democracy

B. Representative democracy

C. Participatory democracy

D. Deliberative democracy

Answer
Answer: B. The chapter states that representative democracy, where people elect representatives to make decisions on their behalf, is the most prevalent form of democracy today.

Question 48: Which of the following is NOT a reason why representative democracy is necessary in modern times?

A. Large populations make it impractical for everyone to participate directly in decision-making

B. Citizens lack the time, desire, or skills to be involved in all decisions

C. Representative democracy is more efficient than direct democracy

D. Representative democracy ensures that only the educated and elite make decisions

Answer
Answer: D. Representative democracy aims to ensure that decisions are made by elected representatives who are accountable to the people, not just the educated or elite.

Question 49: What is the key difference between a minimal democracy and a good democracy?

A. A minimal democracy has elections, while a good democracy doesn’t

B. A minimal democracy meets the basic conditions, while a good democracy strives to achieve the ideals of democracy

C. A minimal democracy is more efficient, while a good democracy is more inclusive

D. A minimal democracy has a written constitution, while a good democracy doesn’t

Answer
Answer: B. A minimal democracy fulfills the essential requirements for being called a democracy, but a good democracy goes beyond that by actively working towards fulfilling the ideals of democratic governance.

Question 50: Which of the following is an example of a democratic way of decision-making in a small community?

A. The village headman makes all the decisions

B. A group of elders decides everything for the community

C. The Gram Sabha, where all villagers gather to discuss and make decisions

D. A lottery system is used to select decision-makers

Answer
Answer: C. The Gram Sabha, where all members of the village community participate in decision-making, is cited as an example of direct democracy in a small setting.

Question 51: What is the main idea behind the activity of comparing the number of voters in a constituency to the capacity of the largest stadium?

A. To demonstrate the feasibility of direct democracy in large populations

B. To highlight the challenges of representative democracy

C. To emphasize the importance of voter turnout

D. To illustrate the logistical difficulties of direct democracy in large constituencies

Answer
Answer: D. This activity aims to show that with large populations, it’s impractical for everyone to gather and discuss matters directly, necessitating representative democracy.

Question 52: Which of the following statements about democracy is true, according to the chapter?

A. No country is a perfect democracy

B. Some countries have achieved perfect democracy

C. Democracy is a static concept with fixed features

D. Democracy guarantees that all decisions will be good

Answer
Answer: A. The chapter acknowledges that no country perfectly embodies all the ideals of democracy, and there’s always room for improvement.

Question 53: What is the “strength and weakness” of democracy, as mentioned in the chapter?

A. The fate of the country depends on both the rulers and the citizens

B. Democracy is inherently unstable

C. Democracy is prone to corruptioD. Democracy leads to slow decision-making

Answer
Answer: A. The chapter highlights that the success of democracy rests not just on the actions of the government but also on the active participation and vigilance of its citizens.

Question 54: In which country were women denied the right to vote until 2015?

A. Saudi Arabia

B. Estonia

C. Fiji

D. Mexico

Answer
Answer: A. The chapter mentions Saudi Arabia as an example of a country that denied women the right to vote until recently.

Question 55: Which country’s electoral system was designed in a way that gave more value to the votes of indigenous Fijians compared to Indian-Fijians?

A. Estonia

B. Fiji

C. Saudi Arabia

D. Mexico

Answer
Answer: B. The chapter uses Fiji as an example of how electoral systems can be manipulated to give unequal voting power to different groups.

Question 56: Which of the following is NOT a criticism of democracy mentioned in the chapter?

A. Leaders keep changing, leading to instability

B. Democracy is all about political competition and power play, with no scope for morality

C. Democracy leads to faster decision-making

D. Elected leaders do not know the best interest of the people, leading to bad decisions

Answer
Answer: C. The chapter actually mentions that democracy can lead to delays in decision-making due to the need for consultation and discussion.

Question 57: What is the main counter-argument to the criticism that democracy leads to instability due to frequent changes in leadership?

A. Instability is better than stagnatioB. Frequent changes ensure that leaders remain accountable to the people

C. Instability is a necessary evil for progress

D. Democracy guarantees that only the best leaders are elected

Answer
Answer: B. The chapter argues that while frequent changes in leadership can sometimes slow down decision-making, they also ensure that leaders remain responsive to the people’s needs and can be replaced if they fail to perform.

Question 58: How does democracy address the issue of differences and conflicts in society?

A. It suppresses all dissent and oppositioB. It allows the most powerful group to dictate its terms

C. It provides a peaceful way to resolve conflicts through consultation and discussioD. It ignores differences and focuses on maintaining the status quo

Answer
Answer: C. Democracy is seen as a mechanism for managing conflicts and differences through dialogue and negotiation, rather than through force or suppression.

Question 59: What is considered the strongest argument in favor of democracy?

A. It leads to better economic outcomes

B. It enhances the dignity of citizens

C. It prevents famines

D. It ensures efficient governance

Answer
Answer: B. The chapter argues that the most compelling reason to support democracy is its ability to empower citizens and recognize their inherent worth and equality.

Question 60: How does democracy promote the dignity of citizens?

A. It guarantees economic equality

B. It treats all citizens as equals, regardless of their background

C. It provides everyone with the same opportunities

D. It eliminates all forms of discriminatio

Answer
Answer: B. Democracy is based on the principle of political equality, where every citizen’s vote carries the same weight, regardless of their social or economic status.
   

Question 61: What is the unique advantage of democracy in dealing with mistakes?

A. It guarantees that no mistakes will be made

B. It allows mistakes to be hidden and forgotteC. It provides a mechanism for correcting mistakes through public discussion and accountability

D. It blames the citizens for any mistakes made by the government

Answer
Answer: C. The chapter highlights that while democracies are not immune to errors, they offer a space for open debate and the possibility of rectifying mistakes through elections or policy changes.

Question 62: Which of the following is NOT a reason why democracy is considered better than other forms of government?

A. It offers better chances of good decisions

B. It is likely to respect people’s wishes

C. It allows different kinds of people to live together

D. It guarantees economic prosperity for all

Answer
Answer: D. While democracy can contribute to economic development, it doesn’t guarantee prosperity for everyone. The chapter focuses on its political and social benefits.

Question 63: What is the central message of the cartoon about the Canadian parliamentary elections of 2004?

A. Democracy is unpredictable

B. The Liberal Party is invincible

C. Elections are meaningless

D. The cartoonist was wrong in his predictio

Answer
Answer: A. The cartoon, where the Liberal Party unexpectedly loses despite predictions of victory, underscores the inherent unpredictability of democratic elections.
   

Question 64: The statement “No democracy has ever gone to war with another democracy” is used to highlight which aspect of democracy?

A. Its economic benefits

B. Its ability to promote peace

C. Its inherent instability

D. Its tendency to avoid conflict at all costs

Answer
Answer: B. This statement suggests that democracies are less likely to engage in wars with each other, implying a potential for democracy to foster peace.

[Why Democracy?] – What is Democracy – Why Democracy – Best 100 MCQs

Question 65: What event sparked the debate in Madam Lyngdoh’s class?

A. A student presentation on democracy

B. A guest speaker’s talk on different forms of government

C. Madam Lyngdoh asking if democracy is the best form of government

D. A news article about a recent electio

Answer
Answer: C. The debate started after Madam Lyngdoh posed the question about the merits of democracy.
   

Question 66: Which student believes that democracy is inherently the best form of government?

A. Yolanda

B. Tangkini

C. Jeni

D. Ribiang

Answer
Answer: A. Yolanda argues that democracy’s popularity and positive endorsements from great people make it obviously the best.

Question 67: What is Jeni’s main criticism of democracy?

A. It leads to instability and chaos

B. It hasn’t eradicated poverty

C. It promotes corruptioD. It’s too slow in decision-making

Answer
Answer: B. Jeni points out the continued existence of poverty in India despite decades of democracy.

Question 68: How does Ribiang counter Jeni’s argument about poverty?

A. She argues that poverty exists despite democracy, not because of it

B. She claims that democracy has actually reduced poverty

C. She blames the government’s policies for poverty

D. She suggests that poverty is inevitable in any form of government

Answer
Answer: A. Ribiang questions whether poverty is a direct consequence of democracy or exists in spite of it.

Question 69: What alternative to democracy does Rose propose?

A. Monarchy

B. Rule by religious leaders

C. A strong, unelected leader

D. Military rule

Answer
Answer: C. Rose believes that a powerful leader who doesn’t have to worry about elections can solve the country’s problems.

Question 70: What is Hoi’s main concern about Rose’s proposal?

A. Such a leader might become corrupt and misuse power

B. It’s unrealistic to find an honest and strong leader

C. It would lead to dictatorship

D. It ignores the importance of citizen participatio

Answer
Answer: A. Hoi points out the potential for abuse of power by an unelected leader.
   

Question 71: What point does Madam Lyngdoh make after listening to the students’ debate?

A. Democracy is the only perfect form of government

B. Democracy allows for freedom of expression and open discussioC. Democracy guarantees economic prosperity

D. Democracy is always better than dictatorship

Answer
Answer: B. Madam Lyngdoh highlights the value of open dialogue and the freedom to express opinions, which are characteristic of a democratic environment.

Question 72: Which of the following is NOT an argument against democracy mentioned in the chapter?

A. It leads to instability due to frequent changes in leadership

B. It’s all about political competition and power play, with no room for morality

C. It leads to delays in decision-making due to consultations

D. It promotes economic equality

Answer
Answer: D. While democracy can contribute to reducing economic disparities, it doesn’t guarantee complete economic equality. This is not listed as a criticism in the chapter.

Question 73: Which of the following arguments against democracy applies specifically to this form of government?

A. Leaders can be corrupt

B. Decision-making can be slow

C. The majority might make poor choices

D. The military is more disciplined

Answer
Answer: B. While corruption and poor decisions can occur in any form of government, the slowness of decision-making due to consultations is a specific critique of democracy.

Question 74: The example of the China famine of 1958-1961 is used to illustrate which point about democracy?

A. Democracies are immune to famines

B. Democracies are better at responding to the needs of the people

C. Democracies always have better economic policies

D. Famines are caused by government incompetence

Answer
Answer: B. The comparison between India and China during the famine suggests that democracies are more likely to address the needs of their citizens due to accountability mechanisms.

Question 75: How does democracy improve the quality of decision-making?

A. It allows for quick and decisive actioB. It relies on the wisdom of a single, strong leader

C. It involves consultation and discussion, reducing the chances of rash decisions

D. It guarantees that all decisions will be in the best interest of the people

Answer
Answer: C. The process of consultation and deliberation in a democracy is seen as a way to improve the quality of decisions by considering multiple perspectives and minimizing errors.

Question 76: How does democracy help in dealing with differences and conflicts in a diverse society like India?

A. It suppresses all dissenting voices

B. It allows the dominant group to impose its will on others

C. It provides a peaceful platform for resolving conflicts through dialogue and negotiatioD. It forces everyone to conform to a single ideology

Answer
Answer: C. Democracy is presented as a way to manage diversity and conflicts by ensuring that all groups have a voice and can participate in the decision-making process.

Question 77: Apart from improving the quality of government and social life, what is another significant benefit of democracy?

A. It guarantees economic prosperity

B. It enhances the dignity of citizens

C. It eliminates all forms of discriminatioD. It ensures military strength

Answer
Answer: B. Democracy is seen as valuable because it empowers citizens and recognizes their inherent worth and equality.

Question 78: How does democracy enhance the dignity of citizens?

A. It provides them with material benefits

B. It treats them as subjects of the ruler

C. It recognizes their right to participate in decision-making and holds them responsible for their choices

D. It guarantees them freedom from all forms of oppressio

Answer
Answer: C. By allowing citizens to participate in the political process and holding them accountable for their decisions, democracy fosters a sense of agency and self-respect.
   

Question 79: What is the advantage of democracy in dealing with its own mistakes?

A. It prevents mistakes from happening

B. It allows mistakes to be hiddeC. It provides a way to correct mistakes through public discussion and accountability

D. It blames the opposition for any mistakes

Answer
Answer: C. The chapter argues that the openness and accountability inherent in democracy create opportunities to identify and rectify errors through public discourse and electoral mechanisms.

Question 80: Which of the following best summarizes the chapter’s conclusion about democracy?

A. Democracy is a perfect system with no drawbacks

B. Democracy is the worst form of government, except for all the others

C. Democracy is better than other alternatives because it offers better chances of good decisions, respects people’s wishes, and allows for peaceful coexistence

D. Democracy is the only way to achieve economic prosperity

Answer
Answer: C. The chapter concludes that while democracy has its limitations, it’s superior to other forms of government due to its potential for good governance, respect for individual wishes, and peaceful conflict resolution.

Question 81: What is the key takeaway from the statement “No democracy has ever gone to war with another democracy”?

A. Democracies are inherently peaceful

B. Democracies are more likely to engage in wars with non-democratic countries

C. The absence of war between democracies is purely coincidental

D. Democracies have better military capabilities than non-democracies

Answer
Answer: A. This statement suggests that democratic systems tend to foster peaceful relations with each other, contributing to a more stable international environment.

Question 82: In the context of the chapter, what does the term “democratic politics” refer to?

A. The study of political parties and elections

B. The active participation of citizens in the political process

C. The role of the government in a democracy

D. The history and evolution of democracy

Answer
Answer: B. “Democratic politics” emphasizes the active engagement of citizens in shaping and influencing the political landscape of their country.

Question 83: According to the chapter, which of the following is NOT a characteristic of dictatorships and monarchies?

A. They often discourage citizen participation in politics

B. They may hold elections but the real power rests with unelected individuals

C. They prioritize the rights and freedoms of citizens

D. They may have a formally elected parliament but with limited powers

Answer
Answer: C. Dictatorships and monarchies are typically characterized by a lack of respect for citizens’ rights and freedoms.

Question 84: What is the primary reason why a democratic government is considered more accountable than a non-democratic one?

A. It has a written constitutioB. It holds regular elections

C. It has a free press

D. It’s answerable to the people and their needs

Answer
Answer: D. In a democracy, the government is ultimately responsible to the citizens and must address their concerns to stay in power.

Question 85: Which of the following best reflects the idea that “democracy enhances the dignity of citizens”?

A. Everyone has the right to vote

B. The government provides basic necessities to all citizens

C. Citizens are treated as equals and have the right to participate in decision-making

D. The government protects citizens from all forms of harm

Answer
Answer: C. Democracy’s emphasis on political equality and citizen participation fosters a sense of dignity and self-worth among individuals.

[Broader Meanings of Democracy] – What is Democracy – Why Democracy – Best 100 MCQs

Question 86: Which of the following statements reflects the broader meaning of democracy as discussed in the chapter?

A. Democracy is solely about the form of government.

B. Democracy is limited to the political sphere.

C. Democracy can be applied to various aspects of life beyond government.

D. Democracy is only relevant in large countries.

Answer
Answer: C. The chapter explores the broader meaning of democracy, emphasizing that it can be applied to any sphere of life where decision-making involves consultation and consent of all those affected.

Question 87: What is the essence of a democratic decision, according to the broader meaning discussed in the chapter?

A. It’s made by the most powerful person.

B. It involves consultation and consent of all those affected by the decision.

C. It’s always the quickest way to reach a decision.

D. It prioritizes the opinions of the majority over the minority.

Answer
Answer: B. The chapter highlights that a democratic decision is characterized by inclusivity, ensuring that everyone impacted by the decision has a say in its making.

Question 88: Which of the following statements exemplifies the application of democratic principles in a non-governmental context?

A. “In our family, my father makes all the decisions without consulting anyone else.”

B. “Our school encourages student participation in decision-making through student councils and open forums.”

C. “The company’s CEO dictates all policies without any input from the employees.”

D. “Only the senior members of our club have the right to vote on important matters.”

Answer
Answer: B. This statement demonstrates the application of democratic principles in a school setting, where student voices are included in the decision-making process.

Question 89: How does the chapter define “true democracy” in an idealistic sense?

A. A system where everyone has the right to vote.

B. A government that guarantees basic necessities to all citizens.

C. A society where everyone has equal information, education, resources, and commitment to participate in decision-making.

D. A country with no poverty or inequality.

Answer
Answer: C. The chapter portrays “true democracy” as an ideal where citizens have not only equal voting rights but also equal access to resources and opportunities to participate meaningfully in decision-making.

Question 90: Why is it important to understand democracy as an ideal, even though no country perfectly embodies it?

A. It sets unrealistic expectations for governments.

B. It allows us to criticize and condemn existing democracies.

C. It provides a benchmark for evaluating and improving democracies.

D. It discourages people from participating in the democratic process.

Answer
Answer: C. Understanding democracy as an ideal helps us identify the shortcomings of existing democracies and strive towards making them more inclusive and just.

Question 91: What is the primary focus of the book, as mentioned in the chapter?

A. Exploring the broader meanings of democracy

B. Examining the core institutional features of democracy as a form of government

C. Analyzing the historical development of democracy

D. Comparing different types of democracies around the world

Answer
Answer: B. The chapter clarifies that the book primarily focuses on the key institutional aspects of democracy as a system of governance.

Question 92: Which of the following is NOT a way of taking democratic decisions, as discussed in the chapter?

A. Rule through elected representatives

B. Direct decision-making by all members in small communities

C. Rule by a single, benevolent dictator

D. Any method that involves consultation and equal participatio

Answer
Answer: C. Rule by a dictator, even if perceived as benevolent, contradicts the core principles of democracy, which emphasize citizen participation and consent.
  

Question 93: What is the Gram Sabha in the context of Indian villages?

A. A traditional dance form

B. A religious festival

C. A village council where all members can participate in decision-making

D. A court of law

Answer
Answer: C. The Gram Sabha is mentioned as an example of direct democracy at the village level, where all members can gather and make decisions collectively.

Question 94: What is the main takeaway from the activity of comparing the number of voters in a constituency to the capacity of a stadium?

A. Direct democracy is feasible in large constituencies.

B. Representative democracy is unnecessary.

C. Large populations pose challenges for direct democracy, making representative democracy necessary.

D. Stadiums should be built to accommodate all voters.

Answer
Answer: C. The activity highlights the practical difficulties of gathering all voters in a large constituency for direct decision-making, thus justifying the need for representative democracy.

Question 95: Which of the following statements about democracy is FALSE, according to the chapter?

A. Democracy is the only form of government.

B. Democracy can take many forms.

C. There can be various ways of taking decisions in a democratic manner.

D. The most common form of democracy today is rule through elected representatives.

Answer
Answer: A. The chapter acknowledges the existence of various forms of government, with democracy being one of them.

Question 96: What is the fundamental principle underlying democratic decision-making?

A. The majority always rules.

B. Consultation and participation on an equal basis.

C. Decisions are made quickly and efficiently.

D. The opinions of experts are prioritized.

Answer
Answer: B. The chapter emphasizes that the core of democratic decision-making is the involvement and equal participation of all those affected by the decision.

Question 97: Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of a minimal democracy?

A. Rulers are elected by the people.

B. Elections offer a choice and fair opportunity to change the current rulers.

C. This choice and opportunity is available to all the people on an equal basis.

D. The government actively works towards achieving the ideals of democracy.

Answer
Answer: D. A minimal democracy fulfills the basic conditions of democracy but may not actively strive to achieve its higher ideals. That is characteristic of a “good democracy.”

Question 98: What is the significance of the report published in the USA in 2004, as mentioned in the chapter?

A. It highlighted the increasing economic inequalities in the USA and their impact on democratic participation.

B. It proved that democracies are immune to economic inequality.

C. It showed that the rich have no influence in democratic systems.

D. It argued that democracy is the only way to eliminate poverty.

Answer
Answer: A. The report emphasized the link between economic disparities and unequal participation in the democratic process, raising concerns about the influence of wealth on political decision-making.

Question 99: What is the purpose of the exercise involving collecting newspaper editorials, articles, and letters related to democracy?

A. To analyze media bias

B. To understand different perspectives on democracy

C. To promote a particular political ideology

D. To criticize the media’s coverage of democracy

Answer
Answer: B. This exercise encourages students to explore various viewpoints on democracy as presented in the media, fostering a deeper understanding of the concept and its complexities.

Question 100: Which of the following is NOT a category for classifying the collected newspaper content related to democracy?

A. Constitutional and legal aspects of democracy

B. Citizens’ rights

C. Electoral and party politics

D. Economic impact of democracy

Answer
Answer: D. While the economic aspects of democracy might be touched upon in the collected content, it’s not listed as a separate category for classification in the exercise.

Reas Also: History Class 9 French Revolution MCQ – Best QA

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