Democratic theory

Some approaches and considerations to make it participative

Abstract

The present article presents the conception of democracy, discussing its origin and trajectory up to the contemporary era. Democracy is understood as a form of government that enables decision-making and the formulation of rules and collective discussions involving representatives elected by the people, with the active participation of these representatives in decision-making and the prevention of an autocratic regime. Two types of democracy are highlighted: direct democracy, in which mass participation occurs without representatives in discussions and decision-making, and representative democracy, in which the people elect their representatives to decide on matters concerning the collective. Additionally, some characteristics and limitations of democracy are emphasized. Democracy presupposes the central establishment of rules, as without restrictions in a democratic process, democracy cannot exist or survive, at least in terms of the decision-making and participation process.