Understanding Democracy: From Ancient Greece to Modern Times

The video explores the concept of democracy, tracing its origins to ancient Greece, particularly Athens, where a direct democracy system was practiced. It discusses the structure of the Athenian government, including the Ekklesia, Boule, and Dikasteria, and highlights the limitations of this system, such as the exclusion of women, slaves, and immigrants. The video then compares ancient democracy with modern representative democracy, noting the influence of money and professional politicians in today's systems.

What event prompted the narrator to discuss democracy?

• A recent election in Greece

• Recent events in Brazil

• A historical documentary

• A political debate in the USA

Who are credited with popularizing the term 'democracy'?

• Romans

• Egyptians

• Greeks

• Persians

What type of democracy was practiced in ancient Athens?

• Representative democracy

• Direct democracy

• Monarchy

• Oligarchy

How were most political positions filled in ancient Athens?

• By inheritance

• By lottery

• By elections

• By appointment

What was the role of the Ekklesia in Athenian government?

• To lead the military

• To propose and vote on laws

• To judge legal cases

• To manage finances

What was the purpose of the Boule in ancient Athens?

• To enforce laws

• To debate and set the agenda for the Ekklesia

• To lead religious ceremonies

• To collect taxes

Who were excluded from participating in the Athenian democracy?

• Military generals

• Wealthy landowners

• Women, slaves, and immigrants

• Men over 20 years old

What was the civic duty of Athenian citizens regarding government participation?

• It was a privilege

• It was forbidden

• It was optional

• It was a duty

What is the main difference between ancient Athenian democracy and modern democracies?

• Modern democracies are representative

• Ancient democracies had political parties

• Ancient democracies were monarchies

• Modern democracies are direct

What is a potential problem in modern representative democracies?

• Influence of money and career politicians

• Absence of elections

• Lack of political parties

• Too much direct participation