Q. Democracy's superior virtue lies in the fact that it calls into activity (UPSC Prelims 2017)
Answer:
the intelligence and character of ordinary men and women.
Notes: The correct answer is
[A] the intelligence and character of ordinary men and women. This question touches upon the philosophical and functional core of democratic governance.
- Intelligence and Character (Statement [A] – Correct): The fundamental belief in a democracy is that "power resides with the people." Unlike autocracies or oligarchies, democracy requires ordinary citizens to engage in the political process, make informed choices during elections, and hold the government accountable. This process "calls into activity" their civic sense, critical thinking (intelligence), and moral responsibility (character) to ensure the collective well-being of society.
- Executive Leadership (Statement [B] – Incorrect): While democracy has mechanisms for leadership, its "superior virtue" is not merely about strengthening the executive. In fact, democracy often places checks and balances on the executive to prevent it from becoming too powerful or authoritarian.
- Superior Individual (Statement [C] – Incorrect): This description is more aligned with "Hero Worship" or an Autocracy/Monarchy, where the fate of the nation rests on one charismatic leader. Democracy is designed to be a system of rules and institutions rather than the whim of a single "dynamic" individual.
- Dedicated Party Workers (Statement [D] – Incorrect): While political parties are essential to modern representative democracies, the virtue of the system lies in the participation of the entire citizenry, not just a specific "band" of party loyalists or cadres.
Key Philosophical Context:- John Stuart Mill: A prominent philosopher who argued that democracy is superior because it promotes the intellectual and moral development of its citizens by requiring them to participate in public affairs.
- Active vs. Passive Citizens: Democracy transforms "subjects" into "active citizens" who take ownership of the laws they are required to obey.