noun
direct democracy
dih-REKT dih-MOK-ruh-see
Direct democracy (noun) means a system of government in which citizens vote on laws and policies themselves, rather than electing representatives to decide on their behalf. Example: “Switzerland comes closest to direct democracy, putting dozens of questions to national votes each year.”
noun
1
A system of government in which citizens vote on laws and policies themselves, rather than electing representatives to decide on their behalf.
"Switzerland comes closest to direct democracy, putting dozens of questions to national votes each year."
"Ancient Athens practised a form of direct democracy in which free male citizens debated and voted in assembly."
How to use direct democracy
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishWhen people vote on the laws themselves instead of electing someone to do it.
When to use it
Neutral; standard in politics, civics and history teaching.
Easily confused with
Common pairings
a form of direct democracy
direct democracy tools
elements of direct democracy
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Switzerland comes closest to _____, putting dozens of questions to national votes each year.
Synonyms
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pure democracy
participatory democracy
Antonyms
representative democracy
Rhymes for direct democracy
See all rhymes for direct democracy →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.
What is the meaning of direct democracy?
"direct democracy" (noun) means a system of government in which citizens vote on laws and policies themselves, rather than electing representatives to decide on their behalf.
