Name: The Meaning and Functions of a Democracy
Uploaded: 2019-07-19
Duration: 5 min 49 s
Description: Many countries in the world call themselves a democracy, and for most of them it’s true. But how can we tell when it’s not? Let’s find out.

Question

Why is universal adult suffrage considered superior to granting voting rights only to the educated elite group of people?

Accepted Answer

The right of the people to vote and elect their representatives is called a franchise. Adult franchise means that the right to vote should be given to all adult citizens without the discrimination of caste, class, colour, religion or sex. It demands that the right to vote should be equally available among all. A universal adult franchise enables all citizens to be involved in the governance of their state. They do so by electing their representatives who govern to serve and protect the interests of the people.

Since democracy treats all people as equals, every person's vote has equal value. It has to be accepted that in certain cases, some people are more equal in case of their educational attainment, wealth or caste status. But even the backward sections of the community have a better chance of coming up in democracy than any other form of government. To deny any class of persons from exercising this right is to violate their right to equality. The system of the universal adult franchise is the bedrock of a democratic system. This system rouses political awakening among all the citizens. They are in a position to safeguard their rights and freedoms. This develops a sense of responsibility among all the citizens irrespective of whether they are in majority or minority. It also protects the interest of the minority groups in a country since it allows even the ordinary person in the streets to participate in the electoral process of their country.

Why is universal adult suffrage considered superior to granting voting rights only to the educated elite group of people?

Important Questions on What is Democracy? Why Democracy?

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