State the various functions political parties perform in a democracy.
Political parties perform several essential functions in a democracy.
Contesting elections is one of the primary functions of political parties. In most democracies, elections are fought mainly among the candidates put up by political parties. Parties select their candidates through different methods - in some countries like the USA, members and supporters choose candidates, while in India, top party leaders select them.
Gathering and presenting views is another crucial function. As societies became large and complex, they needed agencies to gather different views on various issues and present these to the government. Political parties fulfill this need.
Forming responsible government becomes possible through parties as they bring various representatives together. Without parties, elected representatives would only be accountable to their constituency, but no one would be responsible for how the country is run.
Making and supporting policies is facilitated by parties. They provide a mechanism to support or restrain the government, make policies, justify or oppose them. Parties try to persuade people why their policies are better than others.
Implementing policies through popular support is achieved when parties seek to implement their policies by winning popular support through elections. They reflect fundamental political divisions in society and involve partisanship.
Explanation
The answer draws directly from the textbook context which outlines multiple functions: contesting elections, filling political offices, gathering views, forming government, making policies, and persuading people. The context also explains why these functions are necessary - without parties, no one would be responsible for how the country runs.