Q.How does a cooperative society exemplify democracy and secularism? Explain.

• Democracy: Decision-making power lies with a managing committee elected by the members, and the 'one man, one vote' principle applies — every member has equal voting rights regardless of how much capital he has contributed. …

A cooperative society is a voluntary association of persons formed for the mutual welfare of its members. Two of its core features make it a living example of democracy and secularism.

How it exemplifies democracy

• Elected management: The decision-making power of the society rests with an elected managing committee. The members exercise their right to vote to elect this committee, so those who run the society derive their authority from the members themselves — the essence of democracy.
• Equality in voting — 'one man, one vote': Every member has exactly one vote, no matter how much capital he has contributed. Unlike a company, where votes go with the number of shares held, here a rich member and a poor member have equal say. This equality of voting status gives the society its truly democratic character.
• Rule by the members: Because control flows from the members and the committee is accountable to them, the society is governed by the collective will of its members rather than by a few large investors.

How it exemplifies secularism

• Open, voluntary membership: Membership is open and voluntary — a person is free to join and to leave at any time after giving the required notice. …