Compare and contrast direct democracy and representative democracy. Give one similarity and one difference.

Answer 1

Direct democracy and representative democracy are two forms of government that differ in their modes of decision-making and levels of citizen participation.

Similarity: Both direct democracy and representative democracy aim to involve citizens in the governing process and provide them with the ability to influence decisions that affect their lives.

Difference: In direct democracy, citizens directly participate in decision-making by voting on laws and policies. Direct democracy is characterized by the absence of elected representatives, as citizens have the ultimate authority to make decisions. On the other hand, representative democracy is based on the election of representatives who, in turn, make decisions on behalf of the citizens. Citizens indirectly participate in decision-making through regular elections to select representatives.