Lesson 1: Definition of Democracy

Definition of Democracy
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.

Lesson 2: Democratic Practices

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.

Lesson 3: Importance of Participation in Democracy

Participation in Democracy
Democratic Participation is the involvement of the people in creating policies and
programs that serves the interest of the citizen and for the progress of all.
Why participation important in democracy? This question will analyze that citizen
participation influence the government most especially in making laws to be imposed for the
progress of our country.
This kind of participation provides the individuals an opportunity to influence public
decisions for the interest of all. It also gives an equal opportunity or chance to expressed
thoughts, ideas and even feeling about a certain issue/topic/situation.
Furthermore, participation in democracy also develops the self-confidence of the people
through expressing their ideas. It promotes a well-cooperative community and creates
harmonious relationships with one another. For example during election, people are given a
chance to select the best leaders they feel. Participation is very important because it gives a way
to choose the best ideas that contribute for the betterment of our country.

Lesson 4: Participatory and Representative Democracy

Participatory and Representative Democracy
Participatory Democracy
 is an individual participation of citizen directly in making policies and concerning
political aspects rather than electing representatives.
 A kind of democracy in which individual has the power to decide directly on the
policies and politicians are responsible in the implementation of those policies.
Representative Democracy
 a system of government in which citizens vote for representative to make laws.
 A kind of democracy where people elect representatives to make laws in behalf of
the citizens.
In participatory democracy, people involve themselves in making policies or laws where
it is voted directly by the citizens. This law will be imposed by the leaders.
In this type of democracy, everyone hears different sentiments and voices in making policies. It
gives an individual a chance to participate especially those from rural community the opportunity
to influence public decision making.
In representative democracy representatives like congressmen make laws for the citizen.
Citizens’ voice will be hearing through electing a representative or leader in making policies for
the common good.