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Explain the principles of representative government and responsible government. - VCE - SSCE Legal Studies - Question 2 - 2016 - Paper 1
Question 2
Explain the principles of representative government and responsible government.
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Explain the principles of representative government and responsible government. - VCE - SSCE Legal Studies - Question 2 - 2016 - Paper 1
Step 1
Explain the principles of representative government.
Answer
Representative government ensures that the government acts in a way that is consistent with the views and beliefs of the majority of the people. This principle is fundamental to a democracy, where members of the legislature are directly elected by the populace to represent their interests. If the government fails to align with the electorate's views, the citizens have the power to vote them out in the next election, thereby holding them accountable for their actions.
Step 2
Explain the principles of responsible government.
Answer
Responsible government is the principle that mandates a democratically elected government to be accountable and answerable to the people for its actions. This means that members of the government must act with integrity and transparency. If they breach the trust placed in them by the electorate, they may face pressure to resign. This principle ensures that there is a check on government power and that officials are held to the standards expected by the society they serve.