Representative democracy

Definition

Representative democracy is a form of government where citizens elect officials to make decisions and laws on their behalf, ensuring that the will of the majority is reflected while protecting minority rights. It combines the principles of democracy with a structured system of governance to manage complex societies.

Related terms

Electoral System:

The method by which voters choose representatives in a democratic system, including mechanisms like first-past-the-post or proportional representation.

Constituency:

A geographic area represented by an elected official in a legislative body, whose residents are entitled to representation by that official.

Pluralism:

A condition or system in which two or more states, groups, principles, sources of authority, etc., coexist, reflecting a society where multiple groups maintain their independent cultural traditions or governance structures within a shared political framework