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The 4 R’s of

Democracy

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(a word of Greek origin)

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Demos = people

kratos = rule

Democracy = a place where the “people rule”

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1) Representative System of Government

  • Leaders of the government are elected in free, fair & competitive elections.
  • Universal suffrage =
    • all adult citizens can vote.
  • Popular sovereignty =
    • “The people” are technically in charge.
  • Two synonyms = a “Republic” or
    • an “indirect democracy.”

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2) Rule by Law

  • Both the laws and the punishments for breaking them are clearly communicated to the people.
  • The laws are fair –
    • e.g., we wouldn’t execute someone for speeding.
  • The laws are applied equally to everyone.
    • i.e., NO ONE is above the law.

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3) Individual Rights

  • The rights of citizens are clearly outlined...

e.g., in a Bill of Rights.

    • Civil liberties =
      • freedoms which all individuals have.
    • Civil rights =
      • all groups are treated fairly & the same.
  • The main job of a democratic government is to protect the rights of the people.
  • “Majority rule, minority rights.”

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4) Use of Reason

  • There is an unrestricted exchange of ideas.
    • freedom of speech and…
    • freedom of the press.
  • Citizens are encouraged to BOTH get educated and give the government input.
  • Important decisions in society are the result of vigorous and open debates.

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Now you need a copy of the handout up front.

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If you are the last person sitting in your row, please come pick one up for yourself AND everyone sitting in front of you.

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Warm-up #1

  1. Number, list and describe each of the 4 Rs of democracy.
  2. Also, for each one, explain a SPECIFIC example of how it exists today in the United States.

(hint: part b) this may not be in any of your notes, you will have to think about it.)