Question

citizenship quick check
which of the following examples accurately contrasts political participation in democratic and authoritarian systems of government? (1 point)
○ democratic governments do not tolerate nonviolent forms of protest; authoritarian governments do.
○ authoritarian governments harshly punish speech that is critical of the government and its leaders; democratic governments do not.
○ free speech has no effect on the function of society in democratic systems; authoritarian governments limits on free speech make their societies work better.
○ democratic governments rarely hold elections; authoritarian governments hold regular elections.

Explanation:

In democratic systems, there is freedom of speech, including the right to criticize the government. In authoritarian systems, the government often suppresses such speech. Let's analyze each option:

• Option 1: Democratic governments generally tolerate non - violent protests, while authoritarian ones may not. So this option is incorrect.
• Option 2: Authoritarian governments punish critical speech as they want to maintain control. Democratic governments, based on the principle of free speech, do not punish such speech. This is a correct contrast.
• Option 3: Free speech is crucial for democratic societies (e.g., for informed decision - making). Authoritarian limits on free speech do not make societies work better (lack of innovation, feedback). So this option is wrong.
• Option 4: Democratic governments hold regular elections. Authoritarian governments may hold sham elections or not hold them regularly. So this option is incorrect.

Answer:

Authoritarian governments harshly punish speech that is critical of the government and its leaders; democratic governments do not.