Defining Democracy

Elements of a Democracy Control over governmental decisions is given to elected officials. In authoritarian systems, unelected officials make decisions, or elected officials can be overruled by an unaccountable body.

Elements of a Democracy Elections are frequent and fair. In some democracies, there is not a regular election cycle, but officials must call for elections within a certain number of years. A country is not a democracy just because it holds elections.

Elements of a Democracy Almost all adults have the right to vote. Almost all adults have the right to run for office.

Elements of a Democracy Individuals have the right to express their opinions without fear of government reprisal. Individuals must have access to sources of information that are not controlled or censured by the government.

Elements of a Democracy Individuals have the right to form independent (not government-sponsored) associations, like political parties and interest groups. Civil society (lively groups outside of government control) is important in a democracy.

Points to Ponder Democracy is not necessarily more efficient in getting things done. Don’t mix government systems with economic systems. Democracies do not have to have completely free market economies. Authoritarian states may have free market economies

Points to Ponder Democracies are not necessarily more orderly, stable, or governable. Why might an authoritarian state be more orderly than a democratic state?