What defines a democracy as a system of government?

A democracy is fundamentally defined by the principle that the population participates in governance primarily through voting. In a democratic system, the citizens have the opportunity to express their preferences and influence government decisions on policies and leadership. This participation can take place through direct voting on issues or through electing representatives who make decisions on their behalf. The core idea is that power ultimately resides with the people, a hallmark of democratic governance.

In contrast, the other options present systems where the decision-making authority is not derived from the people. A single ruler making decisions exemplifies an autocratic or dictatorial regime. Governance by a military junta typically involves a group of military leaders who assume control, often without the consent of the people. Lastly, a council of elders making choices suggests a system based on tradition or social hierarchy rather than broader popular vote, which further removes the principle of citizen participation central to democracies. Thus, the essence of democracy lies in its reliance on the active participation of the populace in the decision-making process through voting.