What is Democracy? Why Democracy? – MCQs with Answers and Explanations
Class 9
Subject: Political Science
Chapter: What is Democracy? Why Democracy? — Democratic Politics I (NCERT)
30 MCQs with answers and detailed explanations — topic-wise.
Use 'Show Answer & Explanation' to reveal model answers for revision.
CBSE Board Examinations — How to use
- Attempt MCQs under timed conditions, then reveal explanations for learning.
- Each MCQ links directly to NCERT concepts from Chapter 1.
- Use explanations to build short-answer responses in exams.
Topic 1 — What is Democracy? (Questions 1–8)
1. Democracy primarily means:
Correct: B
Democracy derives from Greek words meaning 'rule of the people'. It emphasises popular sovereignty where citizens participate in governance, occasionally directly or mostly via elected representatives.
2. Which form of democracy is practised when citizens elect representatives to make decisions?
Correct: B
Representative democracy is the common model in large modern states where direct rule by all citizens is impractical.
3. Direct democracy is best suited to:
Correct: B
Direct participation by all citizens becomes unwieldy in large populations, so it’s most feasible at small local levels.
4. Which of the following is NOT a basic principle of democracy?
Correct: C
Concentration of power (e.g., authoritarianism) opposes democratic values that distribute and limit power through institutions.
5. Political equality in a democracy means:
Correct: B
Political equality focuses on equal political rights; it does not automatically imply equal economic status.
6. What is the role of elections in democracy?
Correct: A
Elections are central to democratic legitimacy and accountability; they allow citizens to choose and replace governments.
7. In a democracy, the final authority to make decisions rests with:
Correct: A
Decisions in a democracy reflect the will of the people, either directly or through chosen representatives.
8. Which statement best describes majority rule?
Correct: B
Majority rule is a common decision rule, but democracies also protect minority rights to prevent majority tyranny.
Topic 2 — Features of Democracy (Questions 9–18)
9. An independent judiciary means:
Correct: B
Judicial independence is vital to uphold rule of law and prevent arbitrary state action.
10. Free press in a democracy primarily helps to:
Correct: B
Media plays a crucial role in transparency and enabling citizens to make informed choices.
11. Decentralisation refers to:
Correct: B
Local governance helps tailor policies to local needs and increases citizen involvement.
12. Separation of powers is meant to:
Correct: B
This helps prevent abuse by ensuring each branch has limits and oversight powers over others.
13. Pluralism in a democracy means:
Correct: B
Pluralism prevents domination by a single group and enriches democratic discourse.
14. Which of these is an example of checks and balances?
Correct: A
Checks and balances keep branches accountable to each other.
15. Civil liberties include:
Correct: A
These liberties are typically enshrined in constitutions to protect individuals.
16. Interest groups in a democracy typically:
Correct: A
They can enrich debate but may also exert disproportionate influence if unregulated.
17. Accountability in democracy means leaders must:
Correct: B
Mechanisms of accountability keep governments responsive to citizens.
18. Tolerance in democracy helps to:
Correct: B
Without tolerance, pluralism and debate cannot flourish.
Topic 3 — Why Democracy? (Questions 19–24)
19. One economic advantage often linked to democracy is:
Correct: A
Predictability and transparency reduce risks for investors and businesses.
20. Democracy reduces political violence by providing:
Correct: A
Peaceful redressal mechanisms are central to democratic stability.
21. Compromise is necessary in democratic politics because:
Correct: A
It is a practical way to manage plural interests within democracy.
22. Accountability mechanisms in democracy include:
Correct: A
Multiple mechanisms ensure leaders answer to the public and abide by laws.
23. A social benefit of democracy is:
Correct: A
Respect for rights underpins social stability and fairness.
24. Leadership change in democracy is often handled by:
Correct: B
Peaceful transitions are a hallmark of stable democracies.
Topic 4 — Broader Meanings of Democracy (Questions 25–30)
25. Procedural democracy focuses on:
Correct: B
These procedures provide legitimacy, though outcomes also matter for citizens’ welfare.
26. Substantive democracy emphasises:
Correct: B
Both procedures and outcomes are important to make democracy meaningful.
27. Democracy as a 'way of life' implies:
Correct: A
Everyday democratic conduct sustains institutions and civic culture.
28. Participatory democracy emphasises:
Correct: B
It strengthens civic skills and makes policies more responsive.
29. A challenge to democracy can be:
Correct: A
Addressing challenges helps strengthen democratic resilience.
30. Why should students learn about democracy?
Correct: A
Education fosters values like tolerance and participation necessary for a healthy democracy.
Tip: Try answering without peeking. After revealing explanations, write short notes to convert MCQ explanations into 1–2 line exam answers.