Classwork Series and Exercises {Civic Education – JSS1}: Forms Of Democracy

Civic Education JSS 1

Topic: Forms of democracy

1. Direct democracy: This is an individual freedom; this is where people participate in the governing of the state at intervals. People have liberation without any representation.
2. Representative democracy: This is also known as indirect democracy; in this form of democracy, some people are elected to represent the masses. Whatever they say would be accepted as the voice of the people.
3. Constitutional democracy: This form of democracy is based on the laid down principles, the principle serve as the yardstick for the system of government.

Examples of democratic System

1. City states of Ancient Greece where democracy was first practiced
2. Igbo village democracy where each family has a representative; there is no formal system but each unit head serves as representative. they operate decentralized system of Government
3. Modern democratic Systems as it is operating now in nations of the world

Characteristics of Democracy

1. There is free and fair election
2. The law is supreme
3. The fundamental human right is respected
4. There must be majority rule and minority rights
5. There must be independence of judiciary
6. There must be periodic election
7. There must be equality before the law

How democracy works

1. Citizens should be allowed to participate in the government of the country
2. The government allows different political parties to participate
3. People are allowed to elect their leaders through a free and fair election.
4. The principles guiding democracy should be followed.