Social Science (087) — AI-generated practice question

Political parties are essential to democracy yet widely distrusted — this paradox arises because parties are indispensable in theory but often fail in practice.

Why they are necessary: Parties contest elections, form governments, make laws, shape public opinion, and provide citizens access to welfare schemes. Without parties, elected representatives would be accountable only to their locality with no one responsible for running the country. They aggregate diverse opinions into workable policies — a function no modern representative democracy can do without.

Why they are distrusted: Parties face serious challenges: (i) lack of internal democracy and concentration of power in a few leaders; (ii) dynastic succession blocking ordinary workers; (iii) growing role of money and muscle power; (iv) shrinking ideological differences giving voters no meaningful choice.

Thus, citizens feel close to parties for access and representation, yet distrust them for failing to uphold democratic values — explaining the paradox.

Source: Chapter 4 — Why do we need political parties; Challenges to political parties

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• The examiner expects you to name the functions (at least 3–4) and the four challenges specifically — these are textbook headings.
• The "paradox" framing means you must show both sides: necessity + distrust. Don't just list functions or just list problems.
• The line about citizens feeling "close to parties even when they do not fully trust them" is directly from the textbook — quoting or paraphrasing it strengthens your answer.
• At 5 marks, ~110–120 words with clear structure is ideal. Avoid writing more than 130 words.