What is democracy?

The word comes from the Greek demos (people) and kratos (power or rule). Ancient Athens developed an early direct democracy around 508 BC, in which male citizens voted on laws in an assembly, though women, slaves and foreigners were excluded. Most modern countries use representative democracy, electing officials to make decisions. Core features include free and fair elections, protection of rights, rule of law and freedom of speech and the press. Switzerland still uses frequent referendums, blending direct and representative democracy.