Basic Concepts of Democracy

Democracy Gov’t where authority rests with the people –Direct Democracy – Decisions and policies are made by each member of the state –Indirect Democracy (republic) – members of the state elect/choose a representative to make decisions and policies Decision Making Power Representative Decision Making Power People

Equality of All People Equal Opportunity Equality before the law

Majority Rule – Minority Rights The majority will be “right” Search for a “satisfactory” solution rather than the “right” or the “best” one A trial and error process Minority rights must also be recognized and protected

Compromise The process of blending and adjusting competing views and interests to achieve majority agreement

Individual Freedom Freedom to do as he/she pleases as far as freedom of all will allow