PSCI 110 Chapter Notes - Chapter 5: Autocracy, Public Health Insurance Option, Switched Multi-Megabit Data Service
Document Summary
Many different definitions of democracy, with inherently positive connotation. Can be defined based on word origin as a system in which political power resides with the people. Can be fully defined as political power exercised either directly or indirectly through participation, competition and liberty. Liberal democracy indicates reference to system that promotes 3 elements and are from liberal ideology of high liberty but can and are often used in social democracies that place value in equality as well as liberty. Originated in athenian and other greek democracies with foundation for public participation, in small communities it made the eligible citizens the state by allowing them to implement policy and making decisions. Romans used republicanism and emphasized separation of powers within state and representation through elected officials, giving notion of legislative bodies like senates. Modernization theory is correlated with democracy because they would become more educated and ask why there was such a strong need for absolutist authority.