Is direct democracy superior to representative democracy?

At a time when voters are increasingly disengaged from the political process and disillusioned with their elected officials, many are starting to question whether direct democracy could hold the answer to solving the problem of the growing democratic malaise.

Yes, direct democracy is superior

Direct democracy is the only way to truly represent the will of the people.

It allows citizens more control over their lives

Direct democracy cuts out the need for citizens to engage with actors who may act in their own interest.

Direct democracy engenders civic responsibility

Direct democracy encourages people to take an interest in the society in which they live.

It ensures that government is representative of the people

Direct democracy is the only way to be truly representative, as people have a direct say in what policies the government implements.

Direct democracy enables open participation

Direct democracy enable the participation of the all stake holders of their territory specially the citizens

No, representative democracy is better

Individual citizens cannot be expected to truly understand every policy issue. It makes more sense for officials to be elected to make the decisions for them.

Direct democracy is open to being hijacked by populism

In a direct democracy, the framing of the issue can have a big impact on how people vote.

Direct democracy needs too much public education investment

Direct democracy places too much responsibility on individuals to understand complex policy issues.

Direct democracy is too time consuming

To truly engage in direct democracy requires a large amount of effort on the part of citizens.
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This page was last edited on Thursday, 30 Apr 2020 at 07:22 UTC