What is the difference between direct and representative democracy?

Direct democracy means that every voter has the opportunity to make the final decision on an issue, for example in a referendum you are asked one question on a political decision.Wherass representative democracy is where you vote for a person that you believe will best represent your views. Therefore they vote on a variety of issues in parliament and your decision making power is delegated to them. So direct is you personally voting on every decision but representative is electing someone to do that for you. 

LA
Answered by Lucy A. Politics tutor

11199 Views

See similar Politics A Level tutors

Related Politics A Level answers

All answers ▸

What is a referendum?


Explain the what is meant by the 'Separation of Powers' and how the idea pertains to the British Political System


How are pressure groups good for democracy?


Explain the factors that limit the electoral impact of minor parties (US Politics)


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning