What form of democracy ensures that while the majority rules, the rights of minorities are still safeguarded?

Prepare for the Social Studies 30-2 Diploma Test. Engage with insightful questions, backed by explanations. Ace your exam!

Liberal democracy is characterized by the principle that while the majority can make decisions through voting, the rights and freedoms of individuals and minority groups are protected by law. This form of democracy emphasizes the importance of individual rights, which are often enshrined in a constitution or legal framework that safeguards against the tyranny of the majority.

In a liberal democracy, measures such as judicial review and constitutional protections help ensure that minority voices are heard and respected, even when they may be outnumbered in the electoral process. This framework balances the need for popular governance with the imperative to protect personal liberties and the rights of diverse groups, preventing abuse by the majority.

Other forms of democracy, such as direct and participatory democracy, primarily focus on the role of the populace in decision-making processes without necessarily having robust protections for individual rights. Representative democracy involves electing officials to make decisions on behalf of the citizens but may not inherently provide the protections required for minority rights unless it is paired with liberal democratic principles.

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