FINAL QUESTION: Based on your reading of all three documents, what makes a government a democracy? Try to defend your answer with evidence from at least TWO of the three documents that you read for this assignment.
A government is considered a democracy when the power lies with the people and decisions are made through a system of representation and participation. Two documents that provide evidence of this definition are the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution.
The Declaration of Independence states that governments derive their just powers from the consent of the governed. This concept is a fundamental principle of democracy as it emphasizes that the authority of the government comes from the people themselves. Additionally, the Declaration emphasizes the importance of individuals having equal rights and the ability to participate in the political process, further highlighting the democratic principles upon which the government should be founded.
The U.S. Constitution outlines the structure of the U.S. government, including the division of powers and the system of checks and balances. These mechanisms are essential components of a democracy as they ensure that no single branch of government has too much power and that all branches are accountable to the people. The Constitution also guarantees certain rights and freedoms to individuals, such as the right to free speech and the right to vote, which are vital for a democracy to function effectively.
In conclusion, a government is considered a democracy when it is based on the consent of the governed, provides equal rights and opportunities for all individuals, and ensures that power is distributed and accountable. The Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution both provide evidence of these principles, highlighting the key elements that make a government a democracy.