SQA National 5 Modern Studies Democracy in Scotland Practice Exam

An effective democracy is characterized by features that promote participation, representation, and the protection of individual rights. Accountability ensures that elected officials are answerable to the public and can be held responsible for their actions, fostering a system where citizens can express concerns or demand change. Transparency allows citizens to see how decisions are made and how resources are allocated, enhancing trust in government and facilitating informed participation. Responsiveness reflects the ability of government to listen to and act upon the needs and preferences of its citizens, ensuring that policies align with the public interest.

In contrast, authoritarian rule undermines these democratic principles by concentrating power in the hands of a single leader or a small group, limiting political pluralism, and restricting individual freedoms. Such a system often lacks accountability, transparency, and responsiveness, making it incompatible with the ideals of an effective democracy. Therefore, it is clear why authoritarian rule is not a characteristic of an effective democracy.