The 4 R’s of Democracy

1) Representative System of Government Leaders are elected. Leaders are elected. Universal suffrage. Universal suffrage. Free, fair and competitive elections. Free, fair and competitive elections. The people are sovereign. The people are sovereign. Also called a “republic” or an “indirect democracy.” Also called a “republic” or an “indirect democracy.”

2) Rule by Law Laws are fair and clearly communicated. Laws are fair and clearly communicated. Everyone is equal in the eyes of the law. Everyone is equal in the eyes of the law. No one is above the law. No one is above the law. People have input regarding what the law is. People have input regarding what the law is.

3) Individual Rights Rights of citizens are clearly outlined. Rights of citizens are clearly outlined. Civil Rights, civil liberties. Civil Rights, civil liberties. The job of the government is to protect these rights. The job of the government is to protect these rights. “Majority rule, minority rights.” “Majority rule, minority rights.”

4) Use of Reason Decisions come from vigorous debate. Decisions come from vigorous debate. Free and open exchange of ideas. Free and open exchange of ideas. Citizens are encouraged to give input. Citizens are encouraged to give input.