Democratization - AP Comparative Government and Politics
- Identify a common challenge faced by new democracies.
- Weak rule of law. Legal systems need time to develop and strengthen.
- Identify a key factor that promotes democratization.
- Economic development. Modernization theory links wealth with democratic governance.
- What is the 'democratic peace theory'?
- Democracies are less likely to engage in war with each other. Empirical observation about democratic states' foreign relations.
- Identify a social movement that has contributed to democratization.
- Civil rights movement. Mass mobilization for equal rights expanded democracy.
- What is the role of free media in democratization?
- Facilitates informed citizenry and accountability. Independent press ensures transparency and oversight.
- Which region experienced significant democratization in the late 20th century?
- Eastern Europe. Post-Cold War transitions from communist rule.
- What is meant by 'democratic backsliding'?
- Erosion of democratic institutions. Gradual weakening of democratic norms and practices.
- What is the impact of economic inequality on democratization?
- It can undermine democratic stability. Inequality threatens democratic legitimacy and participation.
- Identify a characteristic of consolidated democracy.
- Stable democratic institutions. Democracy becomes 'the only game in town' institutionally.
- Identify a method used by authoritarian regimes to resist democratization.
- Censorship. Restricts information flow to maintain control.
- What is the significance of a written constitution in democratization?
- It provides a legal framework for governance. Establishes rules and limits on government power.
- What is the role of education in democratization?
- Promotes informed citizenry and civic engagement. Educated citizens better participate in democracy.
- Identify a region that experienced democratization during the 'third wave.'
- Latin America. Military regimes transitioned to civilian rule.
- Identify a challenge to democratization in post-conflict societies.
- Rebuilding trust in institutions. War damage requires institutional reconstruction efforts.
- What is the difference between democratization and liberalization?
- Democratization involves full transition; liberalization involves partial reforms. Liberalization allows limited reforms without regime change.
- What is democratization?
- The transition from authoritarian to democratic political systems. Process of political change from autocracy to democracy.
- Identify a factor that can support democratic consolidation.
- Strong institutions. Effective institutions resist authoritarian challenges.
- What is the 'third wave' of democratization?
- The surge in democratic transitions from the 1970s to the 1990s. Named by Huntington for its widespread global impact.
- What role do civil societies play in democratization?
- They promote political participation and accountability. Act as intermediaries between citizens and state.
- Identify a risk associated with democratization.
- Potential for political instability. Transitions can create power vacuums and uncertainty.
- Which factor can hinder democratization?
- Strong authoritarian regimes. Repression and control prevent political opening.
- What is the role of international pressure in democratization?
- Encourages political reform and accountability. External actors can incentivize democratic reforms.
- What is the relationship between democratization and human rights?
- Democratization often leads to improved human rights. Democratic systems typically protect individual rights better.
- What is the impact of globalization on democratization?
- Facilitates the spread of democratic ideals. Global communication spreads democratic norms.
- What role do political parties play in democratization?
- Organize electoral competition. Channel political participation through electoral process.
- Which scholar is associated with the 'third wave' concept?
- Samuel P. Huntington. Coined the term in 'The Third Wave' (1991).
- What is a defining feature of a democratic transition?
- Free and fair elections. Competitive elections legitimize democratic governance.
- Identify an economic policy that can support democratization.
- Market liberalization. Economic freedom can complement political freedom.
- What is the significance of the Velvet Revolution for democratization?
- Peaceful transition to democracy in Czechoslovakia. Non-violent revolution that ended communist rule peacefully.
- Identify a common outcome of failed democratization.
- Return to authoritarian rule. Democratic breakdown returns to autocratic governance.
- What is the significance of the Arab Spring for democratization?
- Triggered democratic movements in the Middle East. Mass protests challenged authoritarian rule regionally.
- What is a hybrid regime?
- A political system with both democratic and authoritarian elements. Electoral democracy without full liberal protections.
- Identify a benefit of democratization.
- Increased political freedom. Citizens gain voice in governance and policy.
- Identify a democratic principle often enshrined in constitutions.
- Separation of powers. Prevents concentration of power in single branch.
- Identify an example of a country that democratized in the 'third wave.'
- Poland. Solidarity movement led peaceful transition from communism.
- What is an electoral democracy?
- A system where government officials are selected through elections. Procedural democracy focused on competitive elections.
- Which event is considered a pivotal moment in democratization?
- Fall of the Berlin Wall. Symbolized end of communist control in Eastern Europe.