Define the term "democracy."

The term "democracy" refers to a system of government where citizens exercise power, typically through voting. This means that in a democracy, the authority to make decisions is derived from the people, who have the right to participate in the political process. This participation often occurs through free and fair elections, allowing citizens to choose their representatives and influence legislation and policy. A democratic system emphasizes individual rights and freedoms and seeks to protect the interests of the populace, ensuring that government is accountable to the people, aligning closely with the principles of equality and majority rule.

In contrast to this, other options describe forms of governance that do not prioritize citizen participation or democratic principles. A monarchy involves rule by a singular sovereign, while a system where citizens have no say diminishes their role in governance. Similarly, a government based on military rule is characterized by authority being vested in armed forces, sidelining civilian influence altogether. Thus, the defining characteristic of democracy is the active role of citizens in shaping their government through participation and voting.