Respuesta :
Two rival views on democracy can be distinguished: a top-down or hierarchical view and an egalitarian view. The nature of society, humans and democracy appear to be very different in the ruler’s perspective than in the egalitarian perspective. Those in power usually prefer representative democracy that minimizes citizens’ power whereas for a majority of the people an egalitarian model of real democracy is preferable.
AspectRuler’s view
top-downPeople’s view
egalitarianDemocracy ConceptA form of government, something institutional and external. A state-centered conceptA way of life, not only a form of governmenet, but also something personal and internal. A citizen-centered conceptPowerPoliticians monopolize political powerPoliticians and citizens share powerCitizens/PoliticiansCitizens elect representatives and these decide on behalf of the citizens. Only representatives are considered politically competentCitizens elect and vote; both people and parliament are law-makers. All citizens are considered politically competentParticipationDoing for and to people.The aim is to find solutions which serve decision-makers best. Top-down control; people are expected to conformActing with. The aim is to find solutions and to regulate conflicts in ways which serve all those concerned best. Voluntary and self-motivated participation; people are expected to dissentFor more aspects see table below!
