Distinguish between direct and representative democracy

representatives purely in their own interests meaning decisions made directly by the people carry more authority. This differs to representative democracy as the citizens have less control, meaning elected representative’s use their superior knowledge and judgement, this avoiding emotional and hasty decisions made by the people. Representative democracy also varies from direct democracy as representatives of parties are able to mediate between the interests of different sections of society. Direct democracy means the opinion of the majority always are successful, meaning minorities are overlooked and made vulnerable. Disadvantages that occur in direct democracy means that when quick decisions need to be made it often takes longer as the process of involving the people needs to be included. An example of a direct democracy is the USA, as it has the bill of rights which reads down all the rules that being in a direct democracy requires. Britain however is in a representative democracy, where decisions are made mostly by the government and not the people. An example of a decision past involving only the government; is the decision to invade Iraq, many citizens of Britain felt outraged and the governments decision on this case and many lost their respect on the labour party and especially Tony Blair. This is an example of when representative democracy backfires, not by making the wrong decision but for acting on it without discussion with the people. It is almost certain that a very different outcome would prevail if direct democracy was used instead. In conclusion direct and representative democracy mainly differs in the inclusion of the people, including citizens in decision making can either make or break a government. I do not have a preference to one or another as both have their pros and cons. meaning while some people may prefer to make decisions for themselves others might feel that we should just let the government take control and make the choices for us. Jessica Gruet