Definition
Representative democracy allows voters to choose legislators and executives who govern on their behalf.
Political Dictionary
Representative Democracy
Representative democracy is a system in which citizens elect officials to make public decisions.
Why It Matters
It makes democratic government possible across large populations and complex policy areas.
How It Works
Voters elect officials for fixed terms, and those officials legislate, administer, and remain accountable through future elections.
History
Representative institutions developed from assemblies, parliaments, colonial legislatures, and constitutional reforms.
Example
Citizens elect representatives to vote on federal laws.
Common Misconceptions
- Representatives must follow every voter instruction exactly.
- Representative democracy excludes referendums.
- It eliminates direct citizen participation.
Related Terms
Related Topics
See Also