5.2.8 Forum: Challenges in Representative Democracy

Consider the following challenges in representative democracies. How do these issues distort the will of the people?

Tyranny of the majority: Because political decisions are made by the majority of voters, decisions might be made that benefit the majority and harm the minority. For instance, the majority of voters do not have school-aged children and might not support adequate school funding because they see no immediate benefit to themselves.
If the majority makes decisions that interfere with the rights of the minority, are the principles of liberalism upheld?
Apathy: In some democratic nations, less than half eligible voters cast their ballots. Voter apathy has been a concern for many years, especially among the young. Some may believe that no one represents their views, or that their vote does not affect change, or they may not understand what government is or the impact it has on their lives. Democracy depends on citizen participation.
If less than half of eligible voters cast a ballot, is the will of the people truly represented?
Inefficiency and bureaucracy: Making decisions requires time and research. The process can become unwieldy as many people have their say in the legislative process. Change can be slow. If the process of decision-making is so cumbersome that decisions take a long time to become reality, is our democratic system effective?

The influence of the rich, the media, or special interest groups: Rich individuals, corporations, and lobby groups work to have their minority voices heard in the democratic process. If rich and powerful people and organizations influence decision-making, do the votes cast truly represent the will of the people or the voice of the minority interests?

Find and analyze a current news story or political cartoon that discusses one of the challenges (listed above) that challenge liberal democracy. Include the following in your post:

Analyze the source (who, what, when, where, why)
Identify and explain if the cartoonist is using irony to convey a message.
Identify the perspective of the cartoonist. What are they trying to say about this chosen issue facing representative democracies?
Explain how the topic specifically challenges the effectiveness of representative democracy (to accurately reflect the will of the people?)
Explain to what extent you agree with the cartoonist's perspective. Include at least one reason/fact for your position.
Include the link and the political cartoon

Consider the following once you have created a draft response:

Have you used specific social studies vocabulary?
Can you include reference to individualist or collectivist principles in your response?

Use this Cartoon Analysis Guide to help you get started.

Your forum posting will be evaluated according to this rubric.

Remember that your language and content must be appropriate for the classroom.

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