The topic of direct democracy versus representative democracy through referendums has appeared multiple times in IELTS Writing Task 2 exams, particularly in countries like Switzerland, Australia, and the UK where referendums are common. Based on past exam analysis, this topic typically appears in Agree/Disagree or Discussion type questions.
Let’s examine a recent IELTS Task 2 question on this topic:
Some people believe that holding referendums is a better way to make national decisions than having elected representatives make them. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Question Analysis
- Topic: Political decision-making methods
- Task type: Agree/Disagree
- Key areas to address:
- Effectiveness of referendums vs representative democracy
- Advantages and disadvantages of both systems
- Real-world examples and implications
Different methods of democratic decision making explained
Band 8 Sample Essay
In recent years, there has been growing debate about whether direct democracy through referendums is superior to traditional representative democracy. While referendums can provide valuable input on crucial national decisions, I firmly disagree that they are inherently better than having elected representatives make decisions.
The primary advantage of representative democracy lies in its ability to handle complex policy matters through experienced lawmakers. Elected officials typically have access to detailed information, expert advisors, and the time to thoroughly analyze complicated issues. For instance, decisions about international trade agreements or monetary policy require extensive knowledge and careful consideration of numerous factors that the average citizen may not fully comprehend.
Furthermore, representative democracy offers stability and consistency in governance. Professional politicians can take a long-term view of national interests rather than being swayed by temporary public sentiment. In South Korea, for example, the successful transition from a developing to a developed economy was largely achieved through consistent economic policies implemented by elected representatives over several decades.
However, referendums do have their place in democratic systems, particularly for fundamental constitutional changes or issues of national sovereignty. The Brexit referendum in the UK demonstrated how direct democracy can be appropriate for decisions that will fundamentally alter a nation’s direction. Nevertheless, the aftermath also revealed the challenges of implementing complex changes based on a simple yes/no vote.
In conclusion, while referendums serve an important purpose in specific circumstances, they should complement rather than replace representative democracy. The most effective approach is a balanced system where elected officials handle day-to-day governance while reserving referendums for extraordinary decisions that require direct public input.
Citizens participating in a national referendum vote
Band 7 Sample Essay
The question of whether referendums are more effective than elected representatives in making national decisions is widely debated. In my opinion, while referendums have some benefits, they should not be the primary method of national decision-making.
Representative democracy has several important advantages. Firstly, elected officials can spend time studying complex issues in detail. For example, when making decisions about healthcare systems or environmental policies, representatives can consult experts and analyze data thoroughly. Additionally, they can debate these matters in parliament and make informed choices.
However, referendums can be useful in certain situations. They allow citizens to directly participate in major decisions that affect their lives. The marriage equality referendums in Ireland and Australia showed how direct democracy can help resolve social issues. But running referendums frequently would be expensive and time-consuming.
One major problem with referendums is that voters might not fully understand complicated issues. Economic policies or international agreements often contain technical details that require expertise to comprehend. Moreover, people might vote based on emotions rather than facts, which could lead to poor decisions.
In conclusion, while referendums have their place in democracy, they should not replace the representative system entirely. A combination of both methods, with referendums reserved for major constitutional changes or social issues, would be most effective.
Band 6 Sample Essay
Nowadays, many people think referendums are better than elected representatives for making decisions. I disagree with this idea because representatives are more qualified to make complex decisions.
Firstly, elected representatives have more knowledge about different issues. They study the problems carefully and can understand difficult topics better than normal people. Also, they have special advisors who help them make good choices.
Some people say referendums are good because everyone can vote. This is true, but many voters don’t know enough about the topics they vote on. For example, when people vote about economic policies, they might not understand all the details.
Another problem with referendums is they cost a lot of money. Countries need to spend money on voting systems and counting votes. Also, it takes a long time to organize referendums, which can delay important decisions.
In conclusion, I think elected representatives are better for making most decisions. However, sometimes referendums can be useful for very important issues that affect everyone directly.
Vocabulary Analysis
- referendum (n) /ˌref.əˈren.dəm/ – a vote in which all people in a country or area are asked to make a decision about a specific issue
- sovereignty (n) /ˈsɒv.rən.ti/ – complete power to govern a country
- infrastructure (n) /ˈɪn.frəˌstrʌk.tʃər/ – the basic systems and services necessary for a country or organization to run smoothly
- constitutional (adj) /ˌkɒn.stɪˈtjuː.ʃən.əl/ – relating to the basic laws and principles of a country or organization
- governance (n) /ˈɡʌv.ən.əns/ – the way that organizations or countries are managed at the highest level
Comparison of decision making processes in different democratic systems
In future IELTS exams, you might encounter similar topics about democratic systems, such as:
- The role of technology in modern democracy
- Youth participation in political decision-making
- The influence of social media on democratic processes
Practice writing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments section for feedback!
