Throughout the history of the United States, there has been many practices and beliefs on how this country should be governed. Although some may have worked better than others, the necessity of the people’s voice was necessary, as well as determining the right level of Democracy. Through the use of trial and error, the United States adopted a form a democracy, in which the government would represent its people, as well as allowing the people to have a voice.
The type of government that the United States has is a Representative Democracy government. Some argue that the United States represents a Republican government which is a political order in which the supreme power lies in a body of citizens who are entitled to vote for officers and representatives responsible to them. (American Heritage Dictionary). On the other hand, others argue that the United States is a Democratic government because its a government by the people, exercised either directly or through elected representatives (American Heritage Dictionary). In conclusion to these two arguments, the United States a Representative Democracy, which is a type of democracy that allows the citizens to have the right to elect their leaders and representatives, influencing them on what is and isn’t needed for the country. Although some argue that the United States should adopt another type of government, most argue this type of government is what is needed and right for this country.
Some citizens argue that the type of government that the United States has is not the best, while others believe that it is, Representative Democracy is the best democratic government possible. Representative Democracy is the best democratic government possible because it will represent a larger population of people. Due to the United States large population, its necessary to have a government that allows citizens to choose a leader and vote on what the government shall do, known as popular sovereignty. Although popular sovereignty might create issues, this form of government relies on two views, the majority rule, and the minority rights. Majority rule makes sure that the government supports what the majority wants while also accounting the minority right, making sure that this rule doesn’t take away anyone’s civil rights or affects them in any way politically or socially. The minority rule also prevents the majority from taking over since they are the ones heard by the government. In this sense, the question arises whether citizens make the decisions of government or do they merely influence them?
Based off of Representative Democracy, the citizens of this country merely influence the decisions of the government. Representative Democracy is a system in which citizens select government officials but do not vote on legislation. What this means is that citizens can vote on who they want to represent and support them, but can’t determine which laws shall be accepted. The reasoning behind this is, is the majority rule and minority rights. The ones protecting these rights are the House of Representatives and Congress. These two houses decide the vote on whether a law should be passed or not, looking at all the rules, rights, and situations that are occurring at the moment. In some states and cities provisions for direct legislation through popular initiative and ballot referendum, allows citizens to collect petitions requiring an issue to be brought directly to the voters for a decision (Ginsberg). Profoundly, this is what makes Representative Democracy the best democracy possible. Having two houses to protect civil rights and decide if the law is the right move, but still have a say when there is change wanted and supported by a vast majority of others.
Although the United States could have adopted any type of government, the need for the people’s voice was determined to be heard. As John Locke once said everyone is born with natural rights, being, the right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. For this to occur, a government was adapted and manipulated for the people, to serve and protect the rights of the citizens.