Exploring Athenian Democracy and Its Unique Practices

The video explores the concept of sortition, a lottery-based selection process used in ancient Athenian democracy, contrasting it with modern representative democracies. It highlights the Athenian system's emphasis on civic duty and wide participation, while acknowledging its limitations, such as the exclusion of women, slaves, and foreigners. The video also discusses critiques from philosophers like Plato and considers the potential benefits and challenges of reintroducing sortition in modern governance.

What was the primary method of filling most governmental positions in ancient Athens?

• Hereditary succession

• Sortition

• Elections

• Appointment by the ruler

What was the role of the Boule in Athenian democracy?

• Judicial functions

• Religious ceremonies

• Setting the agenda and evaluating proposals

• Military leadership

Which positions in Athens were filled by election due to the need for expertise?

• Council members

• Magistrates

• Generals

• Jurors

What was the principle of 'ho boulomenos' in Athenian democracy?

• Leadership by the wealthiest

• Participation by those who wish

• Governance by the few

• Rule by the strongest

Which group was NOT excluded from participating in the Athenian democracy?

• Ordinary citizens

• Slaves

• Women

• Foreigners

What was a central feature of the democratic ideology in Athens?

• Privilege of the elite

• Civic duty of all citizens

• Rule by a single leader

• Economic equality

How did Athenian democracy prevent the formation of governing classes or political parties?

• By allowing unlimited terms

• By imposing strict term limits

• Through financial incentives

• Through hereditary leadership

Which philosopher criticized Athenian democracy as anarchic?

• Socrates

• Aristotle

• Plato

• Epicurus

What percentage of the overall population was eligible to participate in Athenian democracy?

• 70-80%

• 50-60%

• 30-40%

• 10-20%

What modern democratic practice is similar to Athenian sortition?

• Presidential elections

• Party leadership contests

• Citizens' assemblies

• Referendums