Social Science (087) — CBSE Class 10 board question

The statement that "democracy can address all socio-economic and political problems" is not entirely correct. Democracy is just a form of government — it can only create conditions for achieving goals; citizens must take advantage of those conditions.

Arguments supporting democracy's strengths:

1. Promotes equality — Democracy promotes equality among citizens and enhances the dignity of the individual.
2. Resolves conflicts — It provides a peaceful method to resolve social and political conflicts.
3. Accountable government — It improves quality of decision-making and allows room to correct mistakes.
4. Political equality — One person, one vote ensures political equality for all citizens.
5. Accommodates diversity — It accommodates social differences and diverse demands through representation.

However, evidence shows democracy cannot guarantee everything — dictatorships have had slightly higher economic growth rates (4.42% vs 3.95%), and income inequalities persist even in democracies like Brazil and South Africa.

Thus, democracy is preferred over alternatives, but it is not a solution to all problems.

Source: Chapter 5 — Outcomes of Democracy

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• The examiner expects you to agree partially and give balanced arguments — democracy's positives AND its limitations.
• Quoting data (growth rates, inequality figures) adds marks in a 5-mark answer.
• The key line from the textbook — "democracy is just a form of government; it can only create conditions" — is essential and examiners specifically look for it.
• Use the 5 bullet points from the textbook (equality, dignity, decision-making, conflict resolution, correcting mistakes) as your core arguments.