Democracy
- Power Source: Authority comes from the people.
- Popular sovereignty –> Government derives it legitimacy from the consent of the governed.
- Free and fair elections allow poeple to choose leaders and influence policies
- Laws apply equally to all, including those in power.
- Protection of civil liberties like speech, religion and assembly.
- The majority makes decisions, but the rights of minorities are safeguarded.
Autocracy / Dictatorship
- Power Source: Authority rests with one individual or a very small group.
- Decision Making: Citizens have little or no role, decisions are imposed from the top.
- Leadership: Leader seizes or maintains power through force, manipulation, or rigged elections.
- Laws: Rule of law is weak; the leader is often above the law.
- Rights and Freedoms are restricted – dissent, press and opposition and usually censored or punished.
- Checks & Balances are not there or are very weak, the leader often controls all branches of government.
So many reasons why this country is going to hell. The rich get richer, the poor get poorer and it’s all very depressing.