SHS

Trends, Network &

Critical Thinking
Quarter 2 - Module 1
Trends, Network & Critical Thinking
Grade 11/12 Quarter 2 - Module 1: Democratic
Interventions Parties in the Philippines
First Edition, 2020

Copyright © 2020
La Union Schools Division Region
I

All rights reserved. No part of this module may be reproduced in any form without
written permission from the copyright owners.

Development Team of the Module

Author: Robert D. Torcedo, T-III

Editor: SDO La Union, Learning Resource Quality Assurance Team

Illustrator: Ernesto F. Ramos Jr., P II

Management Team:

ATTY. Donato D. Balderas, Jr.

Schools Division Superintendent

Vivian Luz S. Pagatpatan, PhD

Assistant Schools Division Superintendent

German E. Flora, PhD, CID Chief

Virgilio C. Boado, PhD, EPS in Charge of LRMS

Mario B. Paneda, Ed.D., EPS in Charge of Araling Panlipunan Michael

Jason D. Morales, PDO II

Claire P. Toluyen, Librarian II

 Trends, Network
& Critical
Thinking
Quarter 2 - Module 1

Democratic Interventions
 Target

Freedom is power. It is a necessary factor to achieve self-determination. The pursuit

of freedom is liberation from the shackles of ignorance and medieval thinking.
Understanding the elements that bring about freedom of thought, expression, and the like
leads to the appreciation of democracy. This chapter of
Democracy basically reiterates on the governance of the people as the rightful citizens of
the state. “Vox Populi, Vox Dei” means the voice of the people is the voice
of God. Hence, the constituents are the most powerful element in a state as the author of the
fundamental law of the land which is the constitution.

After going through this module, you are expected to:

1. Identify democratic practices HUMSS_MCT12-IIa-c-1
2. Explain the importance of participation in democracy HUMSS_MCT12- IIa-c-
4
3. Differentiate participatory from representative democracy
HUMSS_MCT12-IIa-c-5

Specific Learning Objectives

1. Define and discuss the nature of democracy
2. Identify the elements of democracy
3. Explain the characteristics of democracy
4. Assess cases pertaining to violation of democratic practices.

Before proceeding further, check how much you know about the topic.
Analyze and answer the Practice Quiz below.
 Discover

What is Democracy
Democracy originated from the Greek word demoskratos or demokratia which
means the rule of the people. Democracy is a system of government where citizens choose
their representatives to form a governing body. It is therefore, a government of the people,
for the people, and by the people. This is why it is also stated that
democracy is “Vox Populi, Vox Dei” meaning the Voice of the People is the Voice of
God. As the people are superior over the government.
Democracy is distinct from other forms of government as the power rests among the
citizenry unlike other forms which is either handled by one or a few individuals. A
democratic government focuses on freedom and opportunities for people to improve on their
abilities as well as express themselves for greater self- determination.

Elements of Democracy
The United Nations General Assembly adopted in 2004 a resolution laying out the
essential elements of democracy which includes the following:

1. Separation and Balance of Power

This means that the democratic government is a political authority which is divided
into three, namely the legislative, executive and judicial powers. These branches act
independently of each other to prevent the concentration of power as well as to maintain
check and balance.

A. Legislative Branch
It enacts the laws of the state according to the desires of the constituents. It is
mainly comprised of the House of Representatives and the Senate.

B. Executive Branch
Implements the policy. The President of the land with the Cabinet Members carry
out these functions, making sure that the approves laws are executed in every aspect
of the citizenry’s lives.
C. Judicial Branch
Is responsible for giving meaning to the established laws and brings to justice those
who violate the fundamental laws of the land. This branch makes sure that the
fundamental rights and privileges of the citizenry are met by the government.

2. A pluralistic System of Political Parties and Organizations.

It is expected that a democratic system allows the rule of the majority.
Representation is very necessary in every sector of the society. Hence groups,
organizations and collective efforts are recognized. It is expected that differences
 in opinion, needs and expectations may arise and so a consensus has to be reached
through the initiatives of the Social organizations. As their views are processed, there
arise the similar convictions and thus, they convene within political parties to promote
similar interests.
Political Parties are supported in a democracy as they peacefully mediate conflicts,
and the formation of political views. Such is based on the principle that each citizen has
the right to represent his opinion through a civil and healthy competition of ideas. This
assumption that there are always conflicting interests within every society is the essence
of “pluralism”. And hence the formation and acceptance of political parties in a
pluralistic society with varied ways of processing realities.

3. Respect for the Rule of Law

The Rule of Law is the principle that reiterates no one is above the law. It safeguards
citizens against governance by a totalitarian leader. The rule of law is against the rule of a
dictator or an absolute ruler. This fundamental principle also reiterates that every citizen
is subject to the law, even the highest leader and the lawmakers as all the procedures
equally to all.

4. Accountability and Transparency

Democracy adheres to the principle that the citizen should be provided with all their
basic rights and freedom. This is an expression of democracy. However, it is a common
knowledge that “with great powers come great responsibilities”.
Hence, for every freedom granted is the need to perform certain roles that will be
beneficial to the society itself. In this light it is expected that the participation increases
the role of citizens to take part in political, economic, and social activities such as in
choosing their local leaders and in providing input into local governance.
Accountability on the other hand is the degree to which the government needs to
explain or justify what they have accomplished in relation to what was expected of them.
Accountability is exemplified during elections where every entity in public service is
assessed in relations to their output and performance. Accountability is also gauged
during the government official transparency, which connotes absence of corruption
through honed behavior.

5. Free and Independent Media

Freedom of expression is a necessary element in a democratic society. It is through
the media that the citizenry is informed about the events that transpire in the society. A
crucial role is being played by this agency as it allows transparency in the society and
government. It also convenes the people into certain realities, issues and concerns that
affects their lives. Decision making in the government is learned through these agencies.
The media also plays a crucial role in the education of the people. Traditional radio and
television programs, broadcasters like the BBC and CNN and the PTV4 provide
information to every sector of the society.
6. Respect for Human Rights
Democracy requires respect and the promotion of human rights. The right to vote,
to form political parties, to own property or to marry are necessary for democracy. The
sheer fact that the government provides the freedom to its constituents, then is a fact that
there is really democracy. It is the people who has to be served and no abuse can be
perpetrated by the government. Taking of lives, homes are not manifestations of
democracy. Such is a reflection of despotic rule. Democracy means respect for the dignity
of man by providing social services and resources, to promote the well-being of the
citizenry

Characteristics of Democracy
History proves that democracy did not exist in a perfect state. Democracy evolved
out of the refinement of its component to respond to the needs and demands of the citizenry.

1. Equality before the Law

Equality under the law is equality in the eyes of the law. Sometimes termed as legal
equality is the principle that reiterates that the citizens must be equally treated by the law
and proven innocent until there is due process. The law must
guarantee that no person should be prejudiced in the eyes of the law. Democracy means
equality, fairness, and justice. Indeed, “All are equal before the law”. Everyone must be
treated equally regardless of race, gender, national origin, color, ethnicity, religion,
disability. The constitution as the supreme of the land should safeguard every freedom of
every member of the society.

2. Political Freedom
Political freedom is one of the most important features of democratic societies. It is
freedom from oppression and compulsion. It may also be considered as the positive
exercise of rights and possibilities for actions as well as the exercise of social rights,
freedom from internal constraints, freedom of speech. The concepts of political freedom
connote civil liberties and human rights, which should be protected by the state.

3. Rule of Law
Every law is a product of people represented by their congressman. The law is the
supreme factor that runs the government, and nobody is above the law. The law protects
and promotes the citizenry and so nobody can be over the law. The rule of law state that
every citizen should participate in the elections as the basic features of democracy. This is
also known as the right to suffrage where all voters can participate freely and fully in
the life of their society. Everybody has a say in the fate of their society which happens
during the time of elections whether on a local or national level.
 Activity 1. Choose the Correct answer
A 1.The “branch” of government, which has the power to make laws, and to alter
and repeal them.
A. Legislative C. Judicial
B. Executive D. Government
B 2. The “branch” of government which has the power to implement or enforce the
laws.
A. Legislative C. Judicial
B. Executive D. Government
D 3.The principle which ensures the “balance of powers” among the three branches
of government.
A. Division of Powers C. Decentralization
B. Separation of Powers D. Checks and Balances
B 4.The principle observed in the branches of the government, which gives them a co-
equal and coordinate powers. If one department goes beyond the limits set by the
constitution, its acts are null and void.
A. Division of Powers C. Checks and Balances
B. Separation of Powers D. Decentralization
A 5. This classification of government is ruled by few privilege persons who come from
wealthy and politically powerful individuals.
A. Oligarchy C. Monarchy
B. Aristocracy D. Dictatorship
A 6.It is known as the rule of people where the power in government does not
emanate from the divine right or any God but from the citizens of the state.
A. Democracy C. Monarchy
B. Aristocracy D. Revolutionary
A 7.One of the most important features of democratic societies. The concepts connote civil
liberties and human rights, which should be protected by the state.
A. Political freedom C. Rule of Law
B. Legal Equality D. Equality before the law
A 8.Vox Populi, Vox Dei means “the voice of .”
A. the people is the voice of God C. the people is the voice of the leader
B. God is the voice of the people D. God is a law
C 9.It states that every citizen should participate in the elections as the basic features of
democracy. This is also known as the right to suffrage where all voters can participate freely
and fully in the life of their society.
C. Political freedom C. Rule of Law
D. Legal Equality D. Equality before the law
A 10.It is the degree to which the government needs to explain or justify what they have
accomplished in relation to what was expected of them. It is gauged during the government
official transparency, which connotes absence of corruption through honest behavior.
E. Accountability C. Transparency
F. Legal Equality D. Equality before the law
 Activity 2. Let Us Process
Direction: Elaborate on the following concepts:

1. Democracy - originated from the Greek word demoskratos or demokratia which means the
rule of the people. Democracy is a system of government where citizens choose their
representatives to form a governing body. It is therefore, a government of the people,
for the people, and by the people. This is why it is also stated that democracy is “Vox
Populi, Vox Dei” meaning the Voice of the People is the Voice of God. As the people
are superior over the government.

2. Human Rights - are rights inherent to all human beings, regardless of race, sex,
nationality, ethnicity, language, religion, or any other status. Human rights include the
right to life and liberty, freedom from slavery and torture, freedom of opinion and
expression, the right to work and education, and many more.  Everyone is entitled
to these rights, without discrimination.

3. Accountability- is an assurance that an individual or an organization will be evaluated

on their performance or behavior related to something for which they are
responsible.

4. Legal Equality - it is the principle that requires each person to receive equal treatment
under the law, or stated another way, requires equal protection under the law
for everyone regardless of race, gender, religion, or any other defining
characteristic.

Explore

Democratic Practices
Democratic practices are ways citizens can work together—even when they disagree—
to address shared problems.

Ordinary Questions, Extraordinary Opportunities

Democratic practices are variations on the things that happen every day in
communities. For these routine activities to become public, citizens must be involved. Yet,
this does not mean that communities must do anything out of the ordinary— they just must
do the ordinary in different ways. If the routine business of politics is done in ways that are
open to citizens, the routines can become democratic practices. These practices are reflected
in the ordinary questions people ask one another when something threatens their collective
well-being. Their conversations
revolve around such questions as:
● What is bothering you?
● How does this problem affect you and your family?
● What should we do? What would be the consequences?
● If there are negative consequences to what you propose, do you think we should
still do it?
● What is the right thing to do?
● Who else do we need to solve the problem?
● What resources do we need? What do we have that we can use?
● What are we learning?
The Political Meaning of the Democratic Practices
There is a selected set of terms that it uses to describe what is going on politically
when people ask these everyday questions. Each term identifies one of the democratic
practices just mentioned. When people talk about what bothers them, one would say that
they are naming problems. Naming is a political practice because the name that is given to a
problem affects what is done to solve it.
When people talk about what can be done, they often propose options, and when all
the options are put on the table, they create a framework for tackling a problem. The framing
structures everything that happens thereafter. Framing issues with only one or two options
sets in motion a political debate that is very different from what happens if there are multiple
options on the table.
When people move on to assess the possible consequences that might result from
one course of action or another, Kettering would say they are making decisions
deliberatively. They are weighing possible consequences against what is deeply important to
them. They are mulling over or sorting out what they hear, perhaps changing their minds as
they learn about someone else’s experience. Eventually, they may settle on some work that
they need to do with other citizens, something they want a government to do, or both.
Once a decision is made about how to proceed, people test to see if anyone or any
group is willing to act on the decision and identify resources that they can draw on. Kettering
calls this political practice identifying and committing civic resources.
Commitments produce collective political will. When citizens, then join forces to do
something, we refer to that as organizing civic actions, a practice that brings the many and
various resources a citizenry has to bear on a problem. Action is normally followed by
evaluating what was accomplished, which the foundation has labeled learning together in
order to distinguish collective from individual learning. This practice provides the political
momentum needed to follow through on difficult problems.
All six of these practices are part of the larger politics of self-rule, not stand- alone
techniques. They fit together the way the wooden matrëshka dolls from Russia do. People
will continue to name, frame, and deliberate even as they assess what they have done, and
people will learn together throughout.

The Importance of Participation in Democracy

Democracy, as you may have known, is a form of people’s governance. Here people
decide to have the right to decide on who should rule and how to be ruled. Their dislike for
any rule or law can be shown in the form of a protest. And the government in power must be
sensitive to such protest.

1. Rights of citizens
The basic rights of citizens are protected. There is freedom of food,
clothing, shelter. Even, the choices of work, religion, etc. are not controlled. None
can compel him or prevent him in these aspects.
2. Common law for all
Any person found guilty is to be punished by law. Be it a poor man or the
rich, strong, or weak will have to undergo the same punishment and judicial trial.
Also, to get into any position, all the people will have to follow the same
procedures.

3. Chances for individual growth

Due to the freedom of life, a person can work without compulsions. This
enables him to perform with passion in any field he desires. With this work of
passion, there would be enhanced performance and growth.

4. Combined decision making

For every issue, the entire representatives of people are responsible.
Everyone will be involved in decision making. This limits the chances of wrong
decisions for the country. Thereby everyone is safe and in agreement with
happenings with the nation.

5. Fewer chances of misuse of power

In autocratic rule, there are chances for misuse of power. None can
question their actions, hence, people in power can take personal decisions. This
happens sometimes based on their individual needs and wishes. So, they can take
decisions even if it is harmful to the entire masses. But in a democracy such
misuse of power is not possible.
Even a president or prime minister has to take his colleagues into
consideration. He must put his views into practice only after their approval.

6. Equal rights to all

In a democracy, everyone is equal before the law. One can take up studies,
build homes, buy property, anywhere within the nation as per rules.

7. Ability to express themselves

Every individual has his opinion. Democracy provides an opportunity to
express his opinion without fear or censorship.

8. Enhanced economic growth

Most countries with democracy have enormous economic growth. As
governance is a collective effort; the economic growth is never hindered. The
nation growth is done collectively and efficiently.

9. Minimizes conflicts and violence

The chances of violence are minimal in democracy. Since the power
transition is smooth by-elections; the chances of violence are low.
The only way to get into power is through peoples’ trust. So, the
persons will have to behave responsibly.
10. Provide food and minimizes famines
In the case of calamities, people are deprived of basic amenities like food.
The government will have to arrange for food and essentials from other places.
This is done to support the public and win their support. So, the suffering of
people due to famines would be low.

11. Separation of powers

In a democracy, the powers of administration, justice are separate. So,
those in power or those in the judiciary cannot overpower themselves.

12. Transparency of systems

Since all are equal by law, the systems are transparent. Results of elections,
competitive exams, job selections are kept transparent. These lead to better
support those with ability and talent.

13. People are chosen by performance

In autocratic rule or kingship, the power transit to children. Despite not
being capable enough, they can have complete power. This leads to insufficient
administration and lack of long-term prosperity. In a democracy, only those with
credible performance records would be given a chance. The right person with
ability will be in the position to administer the governance.

14. Finance control

The finances of the state have to be spent as per the constitution. This
prevents misuse of funds and uses them only for the benefit of citizens. So, the
chances of corruption can be reduced.

15. Peoples’ Choice

People can choose their leader irrespective of caste, creed, sex and even
race. Even economically backward persons like Abraham Lincoln could become
the president of the united states, women like Margaret Thatcher prime minister
of the UK, etc.

16. Change of power

If a person in authority is not fit to rule, he can be replaced by elections.
Many politicians who were felt unfit to govern were changed in the next
elections. If they were fit, were given multiple chances to rule.

17. Equal and fair justice

In a democracy, no one is above the law, and everyone is equal before it. So
equal justice is theoretically possible to all.

18. People’s participation

Since a person is elected by people, people have the right to decide their
leader by involvement in voting.
 19. Nationalism
Since every citizen is involved in building the country, there is a sense of
patriotism and contributions to its growth.

20. Better and equal opportunities

All are equal before the law so anyone can contest for any post. And if he is
eligible, he can take the opportunity.

Freedom of life: People are free to live their life as they wish without causing
harm to others. This is a fundamental right provided by law.
But still, there are also disadvantages of democracy which needs to be
addressed. However, as per current levels of education and technological
development, democracy seems to be the best form of government.

Activity 1: Assessment
A 1. These rights still exist even there are no laws that create or provide them.
A. Natural Rights
B. Constitutional Rights
C. Political Rights
D. Civil Rights

A 2. What right is involved if an employee is terminated from work without just cause?
A. Right to Life
B. Right to Property
C. Right Liberty
D. Right to Travel

A 3. What is required before a person shall be deprived of life, liberty or property?

A. Due process of law
B. Observance of Equal protection of laws
C. Non- payment of bail
D. All of the choices

C 4. Who is the commander-in-chief of all the Armed Forces of the Philippines?

A. PNP Chief Archie Gamboa
B. Lieutenant General Gilbert I. Gapay
C. Pres. Rodrigo Duterte
D. None of the above

C 5. The burden of proof in a civil trial is to prove a case . The burden of proof
rests with the .
A. beyond a reasonable doubt; plaintiff
B. beyond a reasonable doubt; defendant
C. by a preponderance of the evidence; plaintiff
D. by a preponderance of the evidence
A 6.The "Burden of Proof" in a trial refers to .
A. Which party has the responsibility of establishing the truth of their argument.
B. A person cannot be tried twice for the same crime if more evidence comes to light
years later.
C. On the balance of probabilities
D. The judge being responsible for deciding on a penalty.

A 7.The theory of government where one branch has the power to keep another branch of
government from becoming too powerful is called .
A. Separation of Powers
B. Limited Government
C. Checks and Balances
D. Constitutional

A 8.The Checks and Balance Power used by the President (Executive Branch) against the
Legislative Branch when the President does NOT like a Law passed by the Legislative Branch
is called .
A. Presidential Veto
B. Judicial Review (optional)
C. Impeachment
D. Appointment Power

D 9.In a democracy, no one is above the law, and everyone is equal before it. So equal
justice is theoretically possible to all.
A. Separation of Powers
B. Limited Government
C. Checks and Balances
D. Equal and fair justice

C 10.People have the right to decide their leader by involvement in voting.

A. Right to Life
B. Right Liberty
C. People’s participation
D. Right to Travel
 Deepen

Activity 1: Let Us Explore

Direction: Read the Case of Otto Frederick Warmbier and answer the following
questions:

Otto Warmbier was born on December 12, 1994, to Fred and Cindy Warmbier and
raised in Cincinnati, Ohio, into a family of American-Jewish descent and was one of three
children in the family, an American college student.

Fred Warmbier said the China-based tour operator, Young Pioneer Tours,
advertised the trip as safe for U.S. citizens. Danny Gratton, an adventurous British sales
manager, met Warmbier in Beijing as the two boarded the tour flight to Pyongyang. The two
struck up a friendship and were roommates on the trip. They stuck together from the time
they got to Pyongyang until Warmbier was arrested.
Warmbier traveled to North Korea for a five-day New Year’s tour of the country
organized by Young Pioneer Tours. Ten other U.S. citizens were in his tour group.
During his stay at the Yanggakdo International Hotel in Pyongyang, Warmbier
allegedly stole a propaganda sign from a staff-only floor of the hotel. The poster said,
“Let’s arm ourselves strongly with Kim Jong-il‘s patriotism!”.
He said he stole it for the mother of a friend who wanted it as a souvenir to be hung
on the wall of a church in his hometown of Wyoming, Ohio. He said that she offered him a
used car worth $10,000 as payment, and that if he was detained and didn’t return, $200,000
would be paid to his mother in the form of a charitable donation. Warmbier said he accepted
the offer because his family was “suffering from very severe financial difficulties”.
Harming such items with the name or image of a North Korean leader is considered
a serious crime by the government.
On January 2, 2016, Warmbier was arrested for theft just prior to departing North
Korea from Pyongyang International Airport. Gratton witnessed the arrest.
The others in his tour group left the country without incident. His crime was
described as “a hostile act against the state” by the North Korean news agency KCNA.
Warmbier was tried and convicted for the theft of the propaganda banner from a
restricted area of the hotel. His trial included his confession, CCTV footage, fingerprint
evidence, and witness testimony.
On June 12, 2017, Rex Tillerson, the United States Secretary of State, announced
that North Korea had released Warmbier. Tillerson also announced that the U.S. State
Department secured Warmbier’s release at the direction of President Donald Trump.
Tillerson said that the State Department continues discussing three other detained
Americans with North Korea.
 Warmbier was sentenced to 15 years of hard labor. Human Rights Watch called the
sentencing “outrageous and shocking”, while U.S. State Department spokesman Mark Toner
said that it was clear that North Korea used arrested American citizens for political purposes
despite its claims to the contrary.
Sometime in the month following his trial, Warmbier suffered an unknown medical
crisis that caused severe brain damage. His condition was not conveyed to anyone outside
North Korea, and Swedish envoys who represent the United States’ interests in North Korea
were not able to see Warmbier after March 2016.

1. Who is Otto Frederick Warmbier?

According to the story Otto Frederick Warmbier, an American college student,

was born on December 12, 1994, to Fred and Cindy Warmbier in Cincinnati, Ohio,
into a family of American-Jewish origin. He was one of three children in the family.

2. What was he doing in North Korea?

Otto Frederick Warmbier was in North Korea as a tourist. He was traveling with
a Chinese company called Young Pioneer Tours, which advertised the trip as safe for
U.S. citizens as part of a special, five-day “New Years Party Tour”

3. Why was Otto Frederick Warmbier arrested?

Otto Frederick Warmbier was arrested in North Korea for allegedly stealing a
propaganda sign from a staff-only floor of the hotel.The poster said,“Let’s arm
ourselves strongly with Kim Jong-il‘s patriotism!”.Harming such items with the name
or image of a North Korean leader is considered a serious crime by the government.
His crime was described as “a hostile act against the state” by the North Korean news
agency KCNA.And was sentenced to 15 years of imprisonment with hard labor.

4. How did the U.S government help in the release of Otto Frederick Warmbier?

By the help of the United States Secretary of State,Rex Tillerson, announced

that North Korea had released Otto Frederick Warmbier. Rex Tillerson also
announced that the U.S. State Department secured Warmbier’s release at the
direction of President Donald Trump. Rex Tillerson said that the State Department
continues discussing three other detained Americans with North Korea.

5. What really happened to Otto Frederick Warmbier?

On January2, 2016, Otto Frederick Warmbier was arrested for theft at  Pyongyang
International Airport while awaiting departure from the country. He was convicted of
attempting to steal a propaganda poster from his hotel, for which he was sentenced to 15
years of imprisonment with hard labor.Shortly after his sentencing in March 2016, Otto
Frederick Warmbier suffered an unknown medical crisis that caused brain damage which
lasted until his death after having been sent home to the United States.
6. What is your opinion regarding what was inflicted on Otto Frederick Warmbier by the
North Korean Government?

My opinion regarding what was inflicted on Otto Frederick Warmbier by the

North Korean government says a lot about the North Korean system. His case is
highly unusual because North Korea tends not to treat its foreign prisoners with
physical brutality such that they sustain any permanent injuries. It is not unusual for
people to be treated in inhumane ways by the North Korean system. Even though we
know nothing about exactly how Otto Frederick Warmbier was treated in captivity,
the fact that the North Koreans kept him for so long after his state became life-
threatening itself shows a lack of care for humane considerations when political ones
are at stake.
References
Book

Trends, Networks and Critical Thinking in the 21st Century by Ethel D. Magalona et.al. p
79-89

Online Sources
https://www.kettering.org/core-insights/democratic-practices
https://www.mindcontroversy.com/why-is-democracy-important/