Democracy
a form of government in which the “rulers” are elected by the people.
came from the greek word “demokratia” which means rule of the people. It
was coined from two words: “demos” that means “people” and “kratos” refers
to “power” that means in democracy the power is vested in the people.
a political system where people have a voice and power to intervene in
government decisions.
It is not only a form of government but it is associated with participation,
rights and freedom of the people in the country.
Some Main Points of Democracy
Practicing the rights like right to vote and right in decision making
There is freedom
The primary source of political power is the common people
There is a social equality and respect for the individuals
Laws are made for the common good and for the progress of the country.
The Philippines is a democratic country where people the power to make decisions
for the common good. Filipinos are practicing their rights not only in political but
also in economic and socio-cultural aspects.
Different Democratic Practices
Democracy is about the people, it is about the rights and the voices of the people
who has a bigger part in making decisions of the government?
There are different democratic practices enjoyed by the democratic community like
the Philippines to express their rights and voice for the will of the people.
Here are some examples of preferred democratic practices in the Philippines.
1. Voting system
One of the most important democratic activity practiced on how
to elect government officials.
It is a legal system where there are rules in how elections will
be conducted and how results are determined
2. Citizen participation
Individuals have an opportunity to participate in any public
affairs
Citizen participation can influence government decision making
process in making of laws, in economic activities and even in
socio-cultural activities.
3. Constitutional Government
A type of government uses constitutions which is known as
laws or written document where it defines how government
works and that balances the power in executive, legislative and
executive branch
4. Majority rule/minority right
Majority rule is a way of organizing a government where
citizens are free to make decision through votes. The minority
rights are the normal individual rights or the rights of the
minorities in a certain place.
In a democratic country, votes are important in making
decisions where the majority votes will rule but there is no
elimination of minority rights or individual rights.
The majority has the power to rule and also responsible to
protect the rights of the minority. It means that whatever the
rules will be imposed the rights of the minorities will still be
practiced.
5. Private sectors/enterprise
Establishing of private enterprise or businesses is a product of
democracy. Citizens have the right to put up a business as long
private sectors follow the policies imposed by the government.
In a democratic country, citizens have a right to make
businesses whether it is small or big enterprise.
6. Civil Society
Establishing of civil organizations are visible in a democratic
country. It a type of organization/society establish by a group
of people with one common interest like establishing an
association of the drivers and union for laborers.
