Answer:
The correct answer is:
A) A republic is a system where elected representatives make decisions; a democracy is direct rule by the people.
Here's an explanation of the difference between a republic and a democracy:
1. Republic: A republic is a form of government in which the country is considered a "public matter," and political decisions are made by elected representatives who are chosen by the citizens through regular elections. These representatives make decisions on behalf of the people and are expected to uphold the rule of law and protect individual rights. Republics can take various forms, such as parliamentary republics or presidential republics, depending on the specific structure of government.
2. Democracy: Democracy, on the other hand, is a broader concept that can encompass various forms of government. In a democracy, ultimate political authority rests with the people themselves. Citizens have the power to participate directly in decision-making processes, such as through referendums or initiatives. In practice, many democracies also elect representatives to make decisions on their behalf, which is known as representative democracy. However, the key distinction is that in a democracy, there is a strong emphasis on direct participation by the citizens in decision-making.
So, while a republic typically involves elected representatives making decisions, a democracy can encompass both direct rule by the people and representative democracy, where elected officials play a role in governance.
Step-by-step explanation: