The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
The three correct scenarios that identify a representative democracy are B, D, and E.
A representative democracy is a system of government founded on the principle of citizens electing officials to represent their interests and govern on their behalf. These elected representatives are responsible for creating and passing legislation. The provided options test the understanding of this core concept against principles of direct democracy, where citizens vote on laws themselves.
B. Legislation is passed by an elected body through a majority vote.
This is a fundamental characteristic of a representative democracy. After elections, the chosen officials form a legislative body, such as a parliament or congress. This body’s primary role is to debate and enact laws, typically by securing a majority vote among its members. This process is the essence of representation, as the elected officials are acting to create laws for the people they represent.
D. Multiple candidates campaign against one another to win an office in government.
This describes the electoral process, which is essential for a representative democracy to function. Meaningful choice requires competition. When multiple candidates from different parties or with different platforms campaign, they present voters with options. The act of campaigning allows citizens to become informed and select the person they believe will best represent their views in government. This competitive electoral system ensures accountability and legitimacy.
E. A candidate takes office following an election where a majority of constituents elected him.
This statement describes the outcome and basis of a representative’s authority. The legitimacy of a representative democracy stems from the consent of the governed, expressed through voting. When a candidate wins an election by securing the necessary votes, they are given a mandate to govern on behalf of their constituents. This act of taking office is the formal beginning of their role as a representative.
Options A and C describe features of direct democracy. In a direct democracy, citizens participate in lawmaking directly through tools like referendums (voting on a proposed law) or recall initiatives to rescind legislation. While some representative democracies incorporate these elements, they are not its defining features. The core of a representative democracy lies in the election of officials (D), their assumption of office (E), and their subsequent lawmaking activities (B)
