Democracy, in its simplest form, means all power to all the people -- above other issues. It means that society is run by its citizens, rather than the rich (aristocracy) an individual (despotism) a royal family (monarchy), or a clergy (theocracy). For survival democracy needs freedom of information and expression, equality between its citizens, and peace. Many people think that nations are either democratic or not - like a light switch that can only be …showed first 75 words of 850 total…

…showed last 75 words of 850 total…created is that within reasonable limits, every citizen has the emphatic right to express their feelings and opinions. The United States has been referred to as a “salad bowl,” made from various backgrounds and experiences –- we need to embrace that to succeed in a democracy. Government officials need to hear as many perspectives on issues as possible -– this will help to make better decisions that affect the best interests of the governing public.