Democracy

Democracy is a form of government in which power is vested in the people and exercised by them directly or through elected representatives. It is a system of government that allows citizens to have a voice in the decisions that affect their lives.

Key Concepts

1. Popular Sovereignty: In a democracy, the people hold the ultimate power and authority.
2. Rule of Law: All individuals and institutions, including the government, are subject to and accountable under the law.
3. Political Participation: Citizens have the right to participate in the political process through voting, running for office, and engaging in public debate.
4. Protection of Minority Rights: Democracies strive to protect the rights of minorities and ensure that the majority does not infringe upon these rights.

Types of Democracy

There are two main types of democracy:

• Direct Democracy: In this form of democracy, citizens directly participate in decision-making processes.
• Representative Democracy: In a representative democracy, citizens elect representatives who make decisions on their behalf.

Study Guide

Here are a few key questions and topics to consider when studying democracy:

1. What is the significance of popular sovereignty in a democratic system?
2. How does the rule of law contribute to the functioning of a democracy?
3. What are the different forms of political participation in a democracy?
4. Why is the protection of minority rights important in a democracy?
5. Compare and contrast direct democracy and representative democracy.

Understanding the principles and practices of democracy is vital for citizens to actively engage in their governance and contribute to a healthy democratic society.