“Democracy”: Greek – demokratia, from demos ‘the people’ + kratia ‘power, rule’
“Representative Democracy”: a form of government in which the supreme power is exercised by the people, usually through a system of representation involving free elections. (Penguin) ‘Democracy’ is often considered synonymous with ‘representative democracy’ although ‘representative democracy’ is only one form of ‘democracy’
“Direct Democracy”: is where citizens in an assembly have the right to pass executive motions, make laws, elect and dismiss officials and conduct trials all without representatives.
Other democratic practices can be exercised through plebiscites and referendums where all citizens can vote directly on a specific political issue.
The possibility of substantial democracy, factors on many elements. For instance, in ancient Greece, voters were only males with property who usually were slave owners, therefore a majority of the population could not have a voice in direct decision making. This was common in North American settler history as well. Politicians today in North America and much of the world -although not always understood in this way- are descendents of rich families who have long histories in the ruling classes. ‘Representative democracy’ which is practiced in North America today has had insufficient affect on this systemic problem. This is due to the fact that capitalism has always provided more resources to the rich to stay in power and keep their privileged positions. This is true in Canada even when people are legally permitted to hold office.
