direct democracy
2 synonyms and 1 antonyms for direct democracy, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — A system of government in which citizens vote on laws and policies themselves, rather than electing representatives to decide on their behalf.
Synonyms
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Antonyms
How to use direct democracy
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Neutral; standard in politics, civics and history teaching.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between direct democracy and representative democracy?
In a direct democracy, citizens vote on the measures themselves. In a representative democracy, they elect politicians who debate and vote for them. Most modern countries are representative, with elements of direct democracy such as referendums bolted on.
Which countries use direct democracy today?
No large country is governed purely this way. Switzerland uses direct democracy most extensively, through binding referendums and citizens' initiatives at federal and cantonal level, and several US states hold ballot initiatives and recall votes.
What are the drawbacks of direct democracy?
Voters cannot realistically study every technical question, turnout on minor measures is low, and campaigns with the most money can shape the wording and framing. Critics also warn that a bare majority can vote away the rights of a minority with no representative body to slow it down.