Democracy: Origins, Evolution, and Modern Principles
The word democracy comes from the Greek definition: governance (demos) and people (kratos), meaning power. In a democratic society, we are governed by elected representatives, not by all selected officials. Some argue that public authorities have too much power and should be directed by the rules of democracy, with limited rule. The legitimacy of political order rests on democracy, originating in 6th century BC Greece. At that time, the government was accessible to all citizens of Athens. However, only free men born in Polis were considered citizens.
Citizens would meet in assemblies to make decisions on public issues. Therefore, decisions were taken directly by the public, not by representatives of their choice. A fundamental difference between Greek democracy and current democracy lies in the size of the community. Greek communities were small and compact, and all members knew each other. Greek society was economically independent, unlike the current state. Debates and decision-making systems not only involved citizen participation but also had a direct impact on democracy.
Public office was achieved through lottery, and the lives of people were considered before the Assembly. It was difficult to separate private and public affairs. Political participation was the basis of everyday life, whereas today, it is only a part. The polis of Athens was apparently the rational basis of authority. Political authorities allowed citizens to give reasons, establishing a rational connection between political power and acceptance of democracy. Public participation and art are closely related.
Aristotle noted that participation was an essential characteristic of the human polis. Greek democracy played an essential role in social education, as it was essential for the public good and honest citizens. The delegation of power and distribution system protect individual freedom. Elected legislators are responsible to voters. This representative system offers universal benefits, including universal suffrage. Confidential voting ensures all citizens have the freedom to decide.
Periodic elections allow for the selection of a governor or governor from political rivals. The recognition of majority rule is the primary tool for political decision-making. However, all these conditions would not be effective without freedom of expression, association, and the press. In addition, the education of all citizens must be guaranteed.
Common human beings develop the ability to act freely. We benefit from our ability to find our own way, and we should not try to remove the benefits of others. This freedom is the basis of individuality, creating the opportunity to participate in the social and political framework. The development of self and community is essential for all work in the area.
Participation enables the development of a society that promotes the social good. This is essential to a democratic organization because the ability to take part in public life is a key driving force. Democratic participation encourages individuals to be responsible and educated, fostering solidarity and happiness. The intention is not just to protect mankind but to improve it.