Democracy

Democracy is the most popular form of government in the modern times. Another familiar name
of Democracy is “Government by Consent. To quote Abraham Lincoln, it is commonly defined
as “Government of the people, by the people, and for the people”, in simple words, it may be any
scheme of government in which the people are allowed to take part as a matter of right. It may be
of two kinds: direct and indirect. The indirect democracy is in vogue these days. It is also called
representative democracy or Government through representatives. Like all other systems, it has
some demerits.
Democracy has many merits. First, it works for the betterment of the common man. Second, it is
based on equality. Every citizen is thought to be equal to law. Third, it allows the people the
right to Change the government through vote. Fourth, it gives birth to a stable government
because it reduces the danger of revolt. Fifth in democracy, more importance is given to the
education of man. It gives the people the sense of self-help and responsibility.

Democracy has some demerits also. First, it gives birth to party-politics which destroys the
liberty and individuality of the people. Second, it is a very expensive form of government. Third,
moral values are ignored in democracy. Everything is fair for winning the elections. Fourth,
bribery and corruption are the common abuses of democracy. Fifth, it is an irresponsible and
inefficient government. The elected people are usually ignorant of their responsibilities.

Islamic concept of democracy is different from the modern concept of democracy. First, in Islam
authority lies in God and not in the people. Second, the government is there not to ‘please the
people but to enforce the orders of God. Third, there is no party-politics in Islamic concept of
democracy. Fourth, quality and not 'quantity is given more importance in the election of
selection of representatives.
Modern democracy can be improved if we run it on the lines given by Islam. Then it can bring
real peace and justice in the world. It is then that we may call it the best form of Government.