Social Science — CBSE Class 10 board question

Democracy as a Legitimate Government:

Democracy is considered a legitimate government because it is formed by representatives freely chosen by the people through regular, free and fair elections. It is truly the people's own government.

Key points explaining democracy's legitimacy:

1. People's choice: Citizens elect their rulers, giving the government a mandate to rule. This makes it acceptable and legitimate in their eyes.

1. Accountability and transparency: Democratic governments follow set procedures and norms. Citizens have the right to information and can examine decision-making processes (transparency).

1. Participation: Citizens can participate in decision-making, making them stakeholders in governance.

1. Overwhelming public support: Survey data from South Asia shows 94% people agree with rule by elected representatives. In India, 92% find democracy suitable — proving people willingly accept democratic rule.

1. Self-generating support: Democracy's ability to generate its own support is itself a major outcome. Even in non-democratic countries, people desire democracy.

Thus, though democracy may be slow or less efficient, it remains legitimate because it is the government people choose for themselves.

Source: Chapter 5 — Outcomes of Democracy, Accountable, Responsive and Legitimate Government

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Examiners look for the term "legitimate" clearly defined (government chosen by and acceptable to the people), followed by 4–5 supporting points. Use the South Asia survey data as a concrete example — it adds evidence and impresses examiners. Avoid writing a vague essay; crisp numbered points score better in 5-mark answers. The phrase "people's own government" is directly from the textbook — use it.