Democracy

Democracy is simply defined as a system of government in which the people govern themselves directly or through freely chosen representatives who make decisions on their behalf. It may also be defined, according to Abraham Lincoln, as the government of the people, by the people, and for the people.

The word democracy actually originated from two Greek words demos meaning people, and kratos, meaning the power to rule

The Types of Democracy

There are basically two types of democracy namely:

1. Direct democracy:This is a type of democracy in which everybody participates directly in the decision making process. This is was the case in the ancient Greek city state of Athens because of their small population.
2. Indirect or representative democracy:This is a type of democracy in which the people elect representatives and leaders who make decisions on their behalf. For example, all the decisions reached at the National Assembly are binding on all Nigerians because those who make decisions in the National Assembly are all elected representatives of their respective constituencies.

The Main Features of Democracy

1. Citizens have the right to air their opinions and openly criticize the government
2. Fundamental human rights are respected.
3. There is a fair system of law and justice.
4. Citizens have the right to vote and be voted for.
5. It gives room for the existence of a recognized opposition.
6. The principles of the rule of law are highly upheld.
7. There is provision for periodic free and fair elections to change the existing order or to demonstrate confidence in it.
8. There is popular participation by citizens in social, economic and political activities.

EVALUATION

1. Define democracy.
2. List and explain the two types of democracy.
3. State five (5) features of democracy.