Are you writing about a government that is positively impacting the society you’re creating in your novel? If a list of words to describe a good government will help you to write these parts of your book, below we’ve included 10 for you to consider.
1. Transparent
Definition
Open, candid; allowing public access and scrutiny.
Examples
“The government’s handling of the pandemic was praised for its transparent communication with the public.”
“The investigation into the alleged corruption in the governor’s office was carried out in a manner that was highly transparent.”
How it Adds Description
The word “transparent” emphasizes honesty and openness, demonstrating accountability to the public. This idea can be used to create tension among characters who either support or oppose transparency and set up the exploration of themes like trust and the relationship between those in power and those they govern.
2. Efficient
Definition
Productive, effective; able to achieve results quickly, without waste or delays.
Examples
“The government’s efficient distribution of vaccines helped to slow the spread of the virus.”
“The new mayor promised to streamline bureaucracy and offer more efficient public services.”
How it Adds Description
The word “efficient” underlines an ability to accomplish objectives rapidly and successfully. It shows the trade-offs and complexities involved in governing society and can create a sense of urgency or frustration as characters confront the trials of an imperfect system juggling priorities, resources, and time constraints.
3. Accountable
Definition
Responsible, liable; answerable to the public.
Examples
“The state senators were quick to hold themselves accountable for mishandling the recent crisis.”
“The president was quick to call the accountable parties out in his speech.”
How it Adds Description
The word “accountable” reflects the importance of responsibility. It indicates that the government is willing to acknowledge its mistakes, take steps to correct them, and face the consequences of its actions. It can be used to explore themes such as justice, power, and the relationship between the government and the people.
4. Inclusive
Definition
Diverse, encompassing; representative of all members of society.
Examples
“The mayor’s policies were inclusive and aimed to promote economic growth while reducing inequality.”
“The new government was praised for its inclusive approach to policymaking, consulting with a broad range of citizens.”
How it Adds Description
The word “inclusive” reflects the importance of creating a society that values and accommodates different perspectives, experiences, and identities. It can provide opportunities for character development and exploration of complex issues such as discrimination, prejudice, and social justice while presenting the government as a powerful symbol of progress or hope.
5. Compassionate
Definition
Empathetic, caring; promoting the well-being of citizens.
Examples
“The government’s compassionate response to the refugee crisis was praised by humanitarian organizations.”
“The new government was far more compassionate than the previous administration when it came to those struggling to make ends meet.”
How it Adds Description
The word “compassionate” denotes the importance of empathy and kindness in the way that a government interacts with its citizens. It can be used when creating characters who require assistance or support, such as refugees or victims of natural disasters, by showing how a compassionate government responds to their needs.
6. Responsive
Definition
Quick to react; promptly responding to needs and concerns.
Examples
“The town council was extremely responsive to the needs of those affected by the recent tornadoes.”
“The citizens appreciated the governor’s responsive approach to addressing their complaints about public services.”
How it Adds Description
The word “responsive” reflects a government that is attentive to the voices of its constituents, takes action to address their concerns, and works to improve their quality of life. It can be used to create conflict between characters who disagree on what it means for a government to be responsive, or who have different priorities for the issues that need to be addressed
7. Empathetic
Definition
Caring, compassionate; understanding of the feelings of others.
Examples
“The assembly’s empathetic response to the victims of the tragedy was praised by the public.”
“The president was empathetic and kind in regard to even those who opposed him.”
How it Adds Description
The word “empathetic” can add a layer of complexity to the description of a good government by emphasizing the importance of listening and connecting with its people. This can be used to explore the struggles of those who feel marginalized or ignored by the government, or by showing how well cared for a society is by those in charge of their well-being.
8. Trustworthy
Definition
Dependable, credible; reliable and honest in actions and communications.
Examples
“The government’s trustworthy response to the crisis was based on clear and consistent communication with the public.”
“The polls indicated that most citizens felt the current administration was trustworthy.”
How it Adds Description
The word “trustworthy” signifies that the government keeps its promises, treats its citizens fairly, and acts in the best interests of the people. By exploring the theme of trustworthiness, characters may grapple with the complexities of political influence and responsibility, opening the door for readers to consider their own values and beliefs about government.
9. Proactive
Definition
Preemptive, practical; taking the initiative to anticipate potential problems or opportunities.
Examples
“The state’s proactive approach to disaster preparedness helped to minimize the damage caused by the hurricane.”
“The proactive measures to address the looming social and economic challenges weren’t perfect but helped to minimize the effects of the pandemic.”
How it Adds Description
The word “proactive” highlights the importance of taking initiative and being forward-thinking in addressing problems and struggles faced by citizens. The idea of a proactive government can be used to compel the reader to consider the consequences of inaction and the benefits of taking bold, preventative measures to improve society.
10. Democratic
Definition
Representative, constitutional; an ability to uphold egalitarian principles.
Examples
“The government’s commitment to democratic values was evident in its efforts to promote freedom of speech and expression.”
“The democratic institutions and practices of our government still hold strong.”
How it Adds Description
The word “democratic” emphasizes the importance of representation and participation in the governing process. It can be used to create friction between a protagonist who believes in democracy and one who does not, using the principles of a free and fair society to explore themes such as control, fairness, and the nature of citizenship.