What is the difference between a republic and a democracy?

The distinction between a republic and a democracy lies primarily in how authority is exercised and how representatives are elected. In a republic, the government operates through elected representatives who are accountable to the citizens. This means individuals elect officials to make decisions on their behalf, creating a system where the rights of individuals and minority groups are protected against the majority's will.

In contrast, the definition of democracy can encompass various forms, but fundamentally, it emphasizes participation by the people, either directly or indirectly, in making decisions that affect their lives. While representative democracy is a common form of democracy where people vote for representatives, the term can also refer to forms that may include direct participation in governance. However, not all democracies function through completely direct governance.

Understanding this concept clarifies why other choices do not accurately capture the essence of these governance structures. The claim about a republic having a monarch misrepresents the system, as republics typically reject monarchy in favor of elected leadership. Meanwhile, stating that a democracy is always direct governance overlooks the representative aspect that is vital in many democracies today. Lastly, asserting that a republic is not accountable to its citizens directly contradicts the core principle of representation that defines a republic. Thus, the correct answer highlights an essential characteristic of governance