Detailed Summary
In a democracy, it is essential that the government is accountable, responsive, and legitimate. Accountability means that citizens have the right to choose their rulers and maintain control over them. This requires that governments make decisions based on democratic norms and procedures, which inherently leads to transparency. While democracies might experience delays in decision-making due to the need for deliberation, this process contributes to better acceptance and effectiveness of decisions among citizens.
The outcome of democracy hinges on practices such as regular, free, and fair elections, open public debate on major policies, and citizens' right to information, which are crucial for government accountability. However, many democracies struggle with inequality and corruption, not meeting the expectations of their citizens. Despite this, democratic governments are viewed as legitimate since they are fundamentally people’s governments. Additionally, the text highlights the importance of addressing economic disparities and accommodating social diversity to foster a peaceful societal coexistence, alongside the overall promotion of individual dignity and freedom.