Democracy

Definition

Democracy is a system of government where power is vested in the people, who exercise that power directly or through elected representatives. This concept emphasizes the importance of individual participation, civil rights, and the rule of law, shaping societies by ensuring that government decisions reflect the will of the populace.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The roots of democracy can be traced back to ancient Athens, where citizens participated directly in decision-making.
2. Modern democracies often rely on representative systems, where citizens elect officials to make decisions on their behalf.
3. Democratic principles include equality before the law, majority rule, and protection of minority rights.
4. Democracy has evolved over time and now includes various forms such as direct democracy, representative democracy, and participatory democracy.
5. The success and sustainability of democracy often depend on factors like an informed electorate, a free press, and robust civil society organizations.

Review Questions

• How does democracy empower individuals within a society?
  • Democracy empowers individuals by giving them a voice in the political process through voting and participation in governance. Citizens have the right to express their opinions and influence decisions that affect their lives. This system ensures that diverse viewpoints are considered, fostering a sense of ownership and responsibility among the populace, while also protecting individual rights through legal frameworks.
• Evaluate the challenges that modern democracies face in maintaining their integrity and effectiveness.
  • Modern democracies face numerous challenges including political polarization, misinformation, voter apathy, and threats to civil liberties. These issues can undermine public trust in democratic institutions and processes. Additionally, external influences such as foreign interference can compromise elections. Addressing these challenges is crucial for sustaining a healthy democracy where citizens feel empowered and engaged.
• Assess the role of historical achievements from early civilizations in shaping contemporary democratic practices.
  • Historical achievements from early civilizations laid the groundwork for contemporary democratic practices by introducing concepts like citizen participation and legal frameworks. For example, ancient Athens pioneered direct democracy, influencing modern representative systems. Moreover, early legal codes emphasized justice and accountability, which are foundational to today's democracies. By examining these historical precedents, we can better understand how they inform current governance structures and values.

Related terms

Republic: A form of government in which the country is considered a 'public matter' and is not the private concern or property of the rulers, emphasizing elected representatives and an elected leader.

Civil Liberties: Basic individual rights and freedoms that are guaranteed by law, such as freedom of speech, religion, and assembly, essential for the functioning of a democratic society.

Electoral System: The method used to calculate the number of votes needed to elect candidates to office, which can vary widely between different democratic systems.