Democracy

Definition

Democracy is a form of government in which power is vested in the people, who rule either directly or through elected representatives. It is a system that emphasizes individual rights, political equality, and the rule of law, with the ultimate goal of promoting the common good.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Democracy is based on the principle of popular sovereignty, where the people are the ultimate source of political power and authority.
2. Free and fair elections, where citizens can choose their representatives, are a fundamental aspect of a democratic system.
3. Democracy promotes the protection of individual rights and civil liberties, such as freedom of speech, freedom of religion, and freedom of the press.
4. Citizen participation and engagement are crucial for the functioning of a healthy democracy, as they hold elected officials accountable and contribute to the decision-making process.
5. Democracies often have a system of checks and balances, where different branches of government have the ability to limit and balance the power of the others.

Review Questions

• Explain how the principle of popular sovereignty is a key feature of democracy.
  • In a democracy, the ultimate source of political power and authority rests with the people. The principle of popular sovereignty means that the government derives its legitimacy and power from the consent of the governed. Citizens in a democracy have the right to participate in the political process, either directly or through elected representatives, and their collective will shapes the policies and decisions of the government.
• Describe the role of free and fair elections in a democratic system.
  • Free and fair elections are a fundamental aspect of a democratic system. They provide citizens with the opportunity to choose their representatives and hold them accountable. In a democracy, elections must be conducted in a transparent and impartial manner, with equal access to the electoral process for all eligible voters. The ability to freely choose one's leaders is a key component of political equality and the protection of individual rights in a democratic society.
• Analyze how the separation of powers and system of checks and balances contribute to the functioning of a democracy.
  • The separation of powers, where the government is divided into distinct branches (executive, legislative, and judicial), is a crucial feature of many democratic systems. This separation of powers, combined with a system of checks and balances, helps to prevent the concentration of power and ensures that no single branch can dominate the others. This system of mutual oversight and accountability helps to safeguard individual rights, promote the rule of law, and maintain the delicate balance of power necessary for the effective functioning of a democratic government.

Related terms

Republicanism:

A political ideology that emphasizes the importance of a representative government, where citizens elect their leaders to govern on their behalf.

Civic Engagement: The active participation of citizens in the democratic process, including voting, volunteering, and engaging in community affairs.

Separation of Powers:

The division of governmental authority into different branches (executive, legislative, and judicial) to prevent the concentration of power and ensure a system of checks and balances.