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 and equality in decision-making processes, often contrasting with monarchies and oligarchies. In ancient contexts, particularly during the emergence of city-states, democratic principles began to take shape as communities sought more inclusive forms of governance.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The concept of democracy began to emerge during the Dark Ages as the power of local leaders started to shift towards collective decision-making among citizens in developing city-states.
2. In ancient Greece, particularly Athens, democracy was characterized by direct participation where male citizens could vote on legislation and executive decisions.
3. The rise of the polis facilitated the spread of democratic ideas, with citizens engaging in public debate and participating in governance.
4. Democratic systems during this period were limited, often excluding women, slaves, and non-citizens from participation.
5. The philosophical groundwork for democracy was influenced by thinkers like Plato and Aristotle, who discussed concepts of justice and citizenship that shaped later democratic practices.

Review Questions

• How did the emergence of the polis influence early democratic practices in ancient Greece?
  • The emergence of the polis significantly influenced early democratic practices by providing a structured community where citizens could gather to discuss and decide on public matters. In these city-states, individuals began to participate actively in governance rather than simply being ruled by kings or tyrants. The polis allowed for public debate and collective decision-making, which were foundational elements for the development of democracy.
• Compare and contrast democracy with oligarchy in the context of governance during the Dark Ages.
  • Democracy and oligarchy represented two contrasting systems of governance during the Dark Ages. Democracy focused on broad participation from citizens, allowing them to engage in decision-making processes that affected their lives. In contrast, oligarchy concentrated power in the hands of a few elite individuals or families, limiting political involvement for most people. This tension between inclusive governance and elite control played a crucial role in shaping early political structures as city-states emerged.
• Evaluate the impact of philosophical ideas on the development of democratic systems during the Dark Ages.
  • Philosophical ideas had a profound impact on the development of democratic systems during the Dark Ages by shaping perceptions of citizenship, justice, and governance. Thinkers like Plato and Aristotle laid foundational concepts about the role of citizens in society and the importance of collective decision-making. Their discussions on ethics and civic responsibility influenced how emerging democracies viewed participation and equality among individuals, ultimately leading to more structured forms of government that emphasized democratic principles.

Related terms

polis: A city-state in ancient Greece that served as the fundamental political unit, where citizens gathered to make decisions regarding governance.

oligarchy: A form of power structure in which a small group of people have control over a country or organization, often contrasting with democratic ideals.

citizen assembly: A gathering of citizens who come together to discuss and vote on political matters, exemplifying early forms of democratic participation.