WEST-E Social Studies Practice Test

In which type of democratic system do legislative members vote on behalf of their constituents?

1. Direct democracy

2. Indirect democracy

3. Participatory democracy

4. Representative democracy

The correct answer is: Indirect democracy

The correct answer is representative democracy. In a representative democracy, elected officials are chosen to make decisions and pass laws on behalf of the people who elect them. This system allows for a more manageable and efficient governance structure, especially in larger populations where direct participation by all citizens in legislative decision-making would be impractical. In representative democracies, constituents select their representatives in frequent elections, enabling them to hold officials accountable for their actions. This form of democracy is prevalent in many countries, such as the United States, where citizens vote for members of Congress who then make decisions regarding national laws and policies. The emphasis on elected officials as decision-makers sets representative democracy apart from other forms like direct democracy, where citizens vote on all policies and laws directly.