direct democracy

Frequency: 6.04.5 per million words

a form of democracy in which the electorate decides on policy initiatives without elected representatives

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Examples (10)

  • Switzerland is often cited as a modern example of direct democracy.
  • Ancient Athens practiced a form of direct democracy where citizens voted on laws themselves.
  • The feasibility of implementing direct democracy in a large nation is a subject of ongoing debate.
  • Unlike representative democracy, direct democracy allows citizens to make policy decisions without intermediaries.
  • Some argue that the internet could facilitate a new era of digital direct democracy.
  • Could direct democracy truly work on a national scale?
  • Critics worry that direct democracy can lead to mob rule and the suppression of minority rights.
  • Many small towns use elements of direct democracy, such as town hall meetings, to decide local issues.
  • A referendum is a powerful tool of direct democracy that should be used wisely.
  • Practicing direct democracy requires a highly informed and engaged citizenry.