Engaging Citizens for Stronger Democratic Decision-Making

The video discusses the need for representative democracy to engage citizens in modern ways, emphasizing participatory and deliberative methods. It highlights the benefits of citizen participation, such as better policy outcomes and increased legitimacy. The role of civil society in driving democracy and its unique characteristics are explored. Challenges like local media investment, inequality, and civil liberties are addressed. Finally, the importance of strengthening deliberation skills for collective participation is emphasized.

What is a key method to enhance decision-making processes in representative democracy?

• Autocratic leadership

• Exclusive expert panels

• Centralized governance

• Participatory and deliberative methods

How does citizen participation contribute to policy outcomes?

• By focusing solely on expert opinions

• By limiting public involvement

• By bringing in diverse perspectives and information

• By reducing the number of stakeholders

What is one benefit of citizens being involved in decision-making?

• Reduced public interest

• Greater ownership and adherence to decisions

• Higher implementation costs

• Increased government control

Which of the following is an example of democratic innovation driven by civil society?

• Centralized decision-making

• Exclusive political parties

• Participatory budgeting schemes

• Autocratic governance

What role did civil society play in the creation of the Scottish Parliament?

• It opposed the creation

• It delayed the process

• It drove the creation

• It had no role

What sets civil society groups apart from corporations and governments?

• They are more trusted and independent

• They have limited reach

• They have more financial resources

• They are less diverse

Why is investment in local news media important for local decision-making?

• To reduce public participation

• To centralize information dissemination

• To increase government propaganda

• To ensure citizens can make informed decisions

What must be tackled to create a more equal playing field for participation?

• Increased taxation

• Poverty and inequality

• Reduced civil liberties

• Centralized governance

What needs to be protected to ensure democratic participation?

• Civil liberties and rights to dissent

• Government control

• Corporate interests

• Exclusive political parties

What skills are essential for collective participation in democracy?

• Passive listening and emotional argument

• Exclusive decision-making

• Active listening and rational argument

• Autocratic leadership