Direct democracy

In a direct democracy, which is also called pure democracy the decisions are not taken by representatives. All decisions are voted on by the people. When a budget or law needs to be passed, then the idea goes to the people. Large governments rarely make decisions this way.

Landsgemeinde of the canton of Appenzell Innerrhoden, example for direct democracy in Switzerland

Costs and benefits of direct democracy

Interests groups would have to change the minds of all people, not just a few representatives. Taxes could not be raised without the permission of the people. The few would no longer rule the many and the government would not pay representatives salaries. In indirect, or representative democracy, citizens elect representatives to make laws on their behalf. This is what most modern countries have today. Direct democracy makes decisions by majority rule. Representative democracy was made with the idea that representatives would be responsible for the majority's interests while protecting the rights of the people in the minority. People like James Madison believed that direct democracy was bad for the minority.

History

Ancient Athens was a direct democracy. All citizens voted on all decisions of government. Switzerland also has a long history of direct democracy. The US used Athens as a model for its democracy, but rejected direct democracy in most cases.

Other pages

• Democracy
• Repesentative Democracy