City-states went through stages - monarchy-oligarchy-tyranny, which benefited ruling classes. All had severe disadvantages for the mass of the population, so Cleisthenes in Athens in 507 BCE introduced a limited form of democracy where all property owners - large and small - could vote in assembly on the running of the city-state.
Alexander Hamilton was not fundamentally against democracy, but he had concerns about its potential excesses. He believed that pure democracy could lead to mob rule and instability, favoring a strong central government and a system of checks and balances to protect against such risks. Hamilton advocated for a representative government where educated and capable leaders would make decisions, reflecting his belief that informed governance was essential for the nation's success. Thus, while he supported democratic principles, he emphasized a moderated version of democracy rather than direct popular rule.
Yes it's essential in a democracy; without consent there'd be no authority.
broth medium
John Locke identified three fundamental unalienable rights: life, liberty, and property. He believed that these rights are inherent to all individuals and cannot be surrendered or transferred, as they are essential for human dignity and freedom. Locke's philosophy significantly influenced the development of modern democratic thought and the concept of government as a protector of these rights. His ideas laid the groundwork for the Declaration of Independence and the idea that governments derive their power from the consent of the governed.
The Founding Fathers valued liberty most, as it was seen as essential for individual rights and freedoms. They believed that a government should protect these liberties while promoting equality and justice for all citizens. Democracy was also important, as it allowed for the representation of the people's will, but it was the protection of individual liberties that underpinned their vision for the nation. Overall, these principles were interlinked, but liberty was the cornerstone of their ideals.
Democracy
It isn't essential. It is just one form of government.
freedom of choice
The philosophers who significantly influenced the development of representative government in the U.S. primarily emerged during the Enlightenment period, which spanned the late 17th to the 18th centuries. Key figures such as John Locke, Montesquieu, and Jean-Jacques Rousseau emphasized ideas like natural rights, the separation of powers, and the social contract, which shaped the foundational concepts of American democracy. Their writings provided essential philosophical underpinnings for the principles of liberty and governance that are central to the U.S. political system.
Aristotle preferred government by the many, not by the few.Like Plato,however,he was suspicious of democracy,which he thought could lead to mob rule.Instead,he was favored a constitutional government ruled by members of the middle class.
Free press is vital to the economy and peoples sense of democracy, however it can and is used for scaremongering, forcing political views on others and generally slowing down the workings of government.
It contributes to the richness and health of a democracy
is democracy an essential way of life
Limited government allows citizens the ability to direct the future of their community and local policy. Limited government, in theory, promotes freedom by giving people a voice while limiting government influence over free markets and civil liberties.
is democracy an essential way of life
coalition and compromise
The defining right of a representative democracy is the right to vote. This right empowers citizens to choose their representatives and influence government policies, ensuring that the government reflects the will of the people. While other rights, such as freedom of speech and the right to petition, are essential for a functioning democracy, the right to vote is fundamental for participation in the democratic process.