Question 1

Do I need prior knowledge of political systems to take this course?

Accepted Answer

Some familiarity with how representative democracy works is helpful, but the course explains all key concepts from the ground up. Each lesson introduces the historical and institutional context needed to understand the topic.

Question 2

Does this course advocate for or against direct democracy?

Accepted Answer

No. The course presents the strongest arguments on both sides — from those who believe citizens should decide major questions directly to those who warn that referendums can be manipulated by demagogues. You will develop your own informed position.

Question 3

Does the course cover digital tools for direct democracy?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Dedicated lessons cover e-petitions, digital democracy platforms like Decidim and vTaiwan, and the broader question of whether technology can make meaningful citizen participation scalable.

Question 4

Will I learn about citizen assemblies and deliberative democracy?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Multiple lessons examine citizen assemblies (including Ireland's landmark assemblies on abortion and marriage equality), deliberative polling, and participatory budgeting — forms of direct democracy that emphasize informed deliberation rather than simple up-or-down votes.