HISET Social Studies Practice

What is a key feature of a democracy?

1. The leader has absolute power

2. Citizens elect representatives

3. Government is based on divine right

4. Decisions are made by a single ruler

The correct answer is: Citizens elect representatives

Citizens electing representatives is indeed a key feature of a democracy. In democratic systems, the authority of the government is derived from the consent of the governed, primarily expressed through elections. This process enables the populace to choose individuals who will make decisions and create laws on their behalf, ensuring that the government remains accountable to the people. This representative element reflects the principle of popular sovereignty, where power rests with the citizens rather than being concentrated in the hands of a single ruler or an elite group. In contrast, absolute power held by a leader, governance based on divine right, or decisions made by a single ruler are indicative of authoritarian or autocratic structures, where citizen participation and input are significantly limited or nonexistent. These approaches do not align with the fundamental democratic ideal of political equality and citizen involvement in governance.