MP Board · Class 10 · Social Science · Civics: Power SharingExplain the reasons why power sharing is desirable in a democracy. Give two main sets of reasons.

Introduction\nPower sharing is the distribution of power among different organs of government, levels of government, or social groups. In a modern democracy, power sharing is considered essential and desirable for the smooth functioning of the political system. There are primarily two sets of reasons that justify why power sharing is desirable:

1. Prudential Reasons (Practical and Economic Benefits)

• Reduction of Conflict: Prudential reasons are based on careful calculation of gains and losses. Power sharing helps to reduce the possibility of violent conflict between social groups. Since social conflict often leads to political instability and violence, power sharing is a good way to ensure the stability of political order.
• Ensuring Unity: Imposing the will of majority community over minority may look an attractive option in the short run, but in the long run, it undermines the very unity of the nation. Tyranny of the majority is not just oppressive for the minority; it often brings ruin to the majority as well.
• Practical Utility: From a prudential standpoint, power sharing produces outcomes that are practically beneficial and minimizes friction between diverse communities living within the same nation-state.

2. Moral Reasons (Democratic Principles)

• True Spirit of Democracy: Moral reasons emphasize the very nature of democratic rule. A democratic government is one where citizens, through participation, acquire a stake in the system.
• Legitimate Government: A legitimate government is one where citizens, through participation, acquire a stake in the system. Therefore, a democratic government is expected to involve citizens through power sharing so they can exercise their rights and feel represented.
• Decentralization of Power: Every person has a right to be consulted in how they are governed. A morally sound society respects diversity and accommodates various groups through institutional mechanisms.

Conclusion\nThus, while prudential reasons stress that power sharing will bring out better outcomes by avoiding conflicts, moral reasons underline the very act of power sharing as valuable in itself.