Pericles' decision to increase the number of public positions that received pay and to compensate jurors significantly strengthened Greek democracy by broadening participation in governance. By ensuring that even lower-income citizens could afford to serve in public roles, he democratized political involvement, allowing a more diverse representation of the populace. This shift encouraged civic engagement and accountability, fostering a sense of ownership over the democratic process. Ultimately, it reinforced the idea that democracy was not just for the wealthy elite but for all citizens of Athens.
direct democracy.
Direct Democracy
Pericles' definition of democracy emphasizes the rule of the many and the importance of civic participation, highlighting equality and the collective decision-making of citizens. While U.S. democracy shares these principles, it also incorporates representative elements where elected officials make decisions on behalf of the populace. Additionally, the U.S. system includes checks and balances that can sometimes limit direct citizen influence. Therefore, while there are similarities, significant differences exist in the execution of democratic ideals.
Adult males were citizens, and attended fortnightly assembly meetings, making decisions and laws, which were carried out by the Council of 500. We call it Radical Democracy or Direct Democracy.
The beginnings of democracy can be traced back to ancient Athens in 5th century BC. This period saw the development of a direct democracy where citizens participated directly in decision-making through assemblies and juries. Leaders like Cleisthenes and Pericles played key roles in shaping the democratic system of Athens.
Pericles' decision to attack Sparta
Democracy means in which all the decision are taken by the people.people take their own decision and not depedent of each other.
Pericles has written: 'The new crisis, or, Grand appeal to the nation, for its decision on this most important question' -- subject(s): Politics and government, Commerce
Under the radical democracy installed by Pericles, the citizens met fortnightly in the Assembly and made decisions and gave directions on maters put before them by the Council. The Council implemented their decisions.
Direct democracy and representative democracy differ in their decision-making processes and representation of the people. In direct democracy, citizens directly participate in decision-making through voting on laws and policies. In contrast, representative democracy involves citizens electing representatives to make decisions on their behalf. Direct democracy provides more direct involvement but can be time-consuming, while representative democracy allows for more efficient decision-making but may lead to potential disconnect between representatives and the people they represent.
In a direct democracy, all citizens have a direct say in decision-making through voting on laws and policies. In contrast, in a representative democracy, citizens elect officials to make decisions on their behalf.
In a direct democracy, each citizen has the right to vote on every decision and issue.