Wikipedia defines democracy as a:
“form of political organization in which all people, through consensus (consensus democracy), direct referendum (direct democracy), or elected representatives (representative democracy) exercise equal control over the matters which affect their interests.”[1]
Do your students know, truly know, what democracy REALLY entails?
In this age of global awareness, students and teachers have a unique opportunity to authentically understand democracy in action. They will be able to learn that not all countries think democratically in the same way as Canada and that even if a person has the most votes, they may not be elected.
What is happening in the world right now with regards to democracy?
The Irish general election will take place on Friday, February 25th, 2011. Basic facts about Ireland are found HERE, but specific sources of election-related information can be found at:
1) Wikipedia has a good overall explanation of this election.
2) The Irish Times have up-to-date information.
3) The Independent online Irish news.
4) Elections Ireland have the stats and details of this upcoming election as well as past elections.
5) Irish Examiner is another newspaper source found online.
6) BBC News
7) Twitter – IrishPolitics
8) Flickr – Irish Election posters
9) CBC News
In Ireland, democracy is said to protect the minority which is a different definition than what is found in Canadian politics. The most seats an Irish party can win in a particular constituency are 3 of 5 seats. Check out what each of the Irish parties are reporting:
1) Fianna Fail
2) Labour Party
3) Fine Gael
Enjoy this authentic real-time opportunity to discuss what democracy looks like in Canada in comparison with the Republic of Ireland. As well, it may be a good time to review the Irish political, social and economic climate, which lead up to this election!
