Social Science (087) — CBSE Class 10 board question

Democracy is the best system to accommodate social diversity because of the following reasons:

1. Political expression of differences: Democracy allows political expression of social differences based on gender, religion and caste, which is healthy for society.

1. Reduces tensions: Democracies develop procedures to conduct competition among groups, reducing the possibility of tensions becoming explosive or violent.

1. Negotiates conflicts: No society can permanently resolve all conflicts, but democracy provides mechanisms to respect and negotiate differences, unlike non-democratic regimes that suppress them.

1. Majority-minority balance: Democracy ensures the majority works with the minority, so governments represent the general view. Majority and minority opinions are not permanent.

1. Equal chance for all: Every citizen must have a chance to be part of the majority at some point. Barring anyone on the basis of birth makes democracy non-accommodative.

Source: Chapter 5 — Accommodation of social diversity

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Examiners look for 5 distinct points in a 5-mark answer. Focus on: allowing expression of differences, reducing violence, negotiating conflicts, majority-minority balance, and equal opportunity for all groups. The Belgium (success) vs Sri Lanka (failure) contrast is a useful example to add. Avoid writing a long essay — crisp points with brief explanation score best.