Pre-Requisites and Characteristic Conditions of Democracy - Essay Example

Lord Bryce states that democracy is “the form of government in which the ruling power is vested not in a particular class but in all the persons of a state”. Abraham Lincoln defined it as “democracy the government of the people, by the people and for the people”. Carl Becker defined democracy as “a democratic form of government has always meant one in which the citizens, or a sufficient number of them to represent more or less effectively the common will, freely act from time to time, and according to established forms, to appoint or recall the magistrates and to enact or revoke the laws by which the community is governed” (Modern Democracy).

Pre-Requisites of Democracy Democracy is a system, which is successful in a sound political system. Such an atmosphere can be created by enhancing the literacy rate, improving socialization, active involvement of citizens in national politics, replacement of sentimental and violent politics with rational thinking and pacific means, entrance acceptance and tolerance in political life, and superiority of national interests. Democracy may flourish only if everyone is allowed to participate in political activities and exercise state powers on basis of merit and ability.

However, several professional politicians are creating monopolies in politics due to political ignorance and lack of awareness. Political parties and democracy are nothing without each other. About all states in the world have political parties and representative groups to strengthen the democratic form of government. Democracy develops through unionism, associations, interest groups, and pressure groups. They communicate national problems to people and opinions of the people are made. Democracy is such a political system, which ensures the right of opposition and criticism to put the government on the right track.

While exercising its powers, the government may ignore the charter and abuse its powers. A strong opposition is, therefore, necessary to keep the government within its limits. Media is often considered the backbone of the democratic system. It serves as a bridge between the government and the people. The role of media in the development of democracy is essential, therefore its independence must be ensured. Furthermore, the development of democracy requires that regionalism and sectarianism must be discouraged and even to be rooted-out.

These things divert the attention of the government from welfare and development activities. As rulers are representatives, they are responsible before the people. Accountability to check government acts results in increased life and quality of democratic systems. Judiciary in this regard is a type of check valve in the system. It must be independent and effective to preserve the rights of the community. Characteristic Conditions of Democracy In democratic states, all people, irrespective of any discrimination, are citizens.