Democracy

Definition

Democracy is a system of government in which power is vested in the people, who exercise that power directly or through elected representatives. It emphasizes individual participation, equality, and the protection of personal freedoms, creating a political landscape where citizens have a say in their governance and can influence decision-making processes.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The concept of democracy originated in ancient Athens, where citizens had the opportunity to vote on laws and policies directly.
2. Athenian democracy was characterized by the Assembly, where male citizens gathered to discuss and decide on important issues, while women and slaves were excluded from participation.
3. During times of war, such as the Persian invasions, democratic principles were tested as leaders sought to unify citizens for defense while balancing individual freedoms.
4. The Peloponnesian War challenged Athenian democracy as leaders adopted more authoritarian measures in response to external threats and internal strife.
5. The legacy of Athenian democracy has significantly influenced modern democratic systems around the world, emphasizing the importance of citizen participation and equal representation.

Review Questions

• How did the evolution of tyranny in ancient Greece challenge the principles of democracy?
  • The rise of tyranny in ancient Greece represented a direct challenge to democratic ideals by concentrating power in the hands of a single ruler. Tyrants often came to power during periods of political instability and social unrest, promising order and stability. This shift undermined the participatory nature of democracy, as citizens' rights to influence governance were stripped away. The tension between tyranny and democracy prompted discussions about the importance of civic engagement and checks on power.
• In what ways did Athenian culture and society reflect democratic ideals, and how did these ideals manifest in daily life?
  • Athenian culture celebrated democracy through various forms of art, theater, and public discourse, showcasing the importance of civic participation. Festivals like the Dionysia highlighted democratic values by allowing citizens to engage with political themes through drama. Additionally, the structure of Athenian society encouraged public debate and participation in governance. Citizens regularly gathered at the Agora to discuss matters of state, reflecting the idea that democracy was not just a political system but also a way of life.
• Evaluate how the decline of Athenian democracy after the Peloponnesian War affected its legacy on modern democratic systems.
  • The decline of Athenian democracy post-Peloponnesian War was marked by political instability, oligarchic rule, and eventual conquest by foreign powers. This collapse highlighted vulnerabilities within democratic systems when faced with external threats and internal division. However, despite its fall, Athenian democracy's legacy persisted as an influential model for future democratic movements. Its emphasis on citizen participation and representation served as a foundational principle for modern democracies, inspiring philosophers and political theorists to develop frameworks that would lead to contemporary democratic practices.

Related terms

Direct Democracy: A form of democracy in which citizens directly participate in decision-making rather than electing representatives to do so on their behalf.

Oligarchy: A political system where power resides in the hands of a small group of individuals or families, often contrasting with democratic principles.

Citizenship: The status of being a recognized member of a state or nation, which often entails certain rights and responsibilities, including participation in the democratic process.