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. Example: “Switzerland comes closest to direct democracy, putting dozens of questions to national votes each year.”
How to use direct democracy
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishWhen people vote on the laws themselves instead of electing someone to do it.
Neutral; standard in politics, civics and history teaching.
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Switzerland comes closest to _____, putting dozens of questions to national votes each year.
Synonyms
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Rhymes for direct democracy
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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.