Page 101 - Social Studies 7

Lesson Democratic Culture
4.5

In a democracy, the poor will have more power than the
FACTS rich because there are more number of poor people and
to Understand the will of the majority is supreme.
Aristotle

Democracy is a system of government that runs according to the will of the
people. The sovereignty belongs to the people, with the people in this system.
Democracy is a Greek word derived from Demos and Kratia which means rule
by the people. It aims to promote welfare of the people. In a democratic country
all citizens are equal, enjoy equal rights, opportunities, freedom and every kind of
privilege. Aristotle a Greek philosopher describes democracy as a perverted form
th
of popular rule. Abraham Lincoln, the 16 president of USA, defined democracy
as 'democracy is a government of the people by the people and for the people'.

There are two types of democracy. They are direct democracy and indirect
democracy. In direct democracy, people assemble in one place, discuss and decide.
Mostly people from the aristocrat family used to involve in such type of democracy.
The most popular type of democracy is an indirect type of democracy. Citizens
choose representatives through election. It is based on Universal Adult Franchise.
The government formed by the people is responsible and dedicated to the people.

In the recent years, the term 'Democracy' has got its popularity as Loktantra after
the successful People's Mass Movement II of BS 2062/2063. It is defined as the
complete democracy in Nepal. The country is declared a republic.
The democratic culture is based on people. In democratic culture, there is no
discrimination on caste language, religion, sex, culture, tradition, region, class, etc.
All the people are treated equally in democracy. People are free to enjoy the rights
given by the state. People become active and conscious politically. Democratic
culture is essential for all-round development of a society. To make democratic
culture effective and successful, the following things should be practiced.
Maintain equality
Proper use of rights
Equal behaviour

Perform duties
Love and respect to each other

101 Dynamic Social Studies and Population Education - Book VII