Direct Democracy

The video explores the differences between representative government and the direct democracy of ancient Athens. It explains how Athenian democracy was characterized by the use of a lot system to select officials, contrasting with modern representative democracies. The video delves into the roles of magistrates, the council, and the courts, highlighting the checks and balances in place. It also discusses the legislative powers of the nomotetai and the concept of direct democracy, emphasizing that not all political power was held by the citizens. The video concludes with a reflection on the unique aspects of Athenian democracy.

What is a key difference between representative government and the government in ancient Athens?

• Ancient Athens used elections for all positions.

• Representative government lacks an institutional role for the assembled people.

• Ancient Athens had no role for the assembly.

• Representative government involves direct voting by all citizens.

How were magistrates selected in ancient Athens?

• By inheritance

• By drawing lots

• By public vote

• By appointment from the elite

What was a limitation placed on magistrates in ancient Athens?

• They could serve for life.

• They could be re-elected immediately.

• They could not hold the same office more than once in a lifetime.

• They had legislative power.

What distinguished elected offices from those filled by lot in ancient Athens?

• Elected offices required competence and could be held multiple times.

• Lot offices were held for life.

• Elected offices were only for the military.

• Elected offices were filled by drawing lots.

Who primarily filled the elected offices in ancient Athens?

• The economic and social elite

• The general public

• Women

• Foreigners

What was the role of the council in Athenian democracy?

• To elect magistrates

• To determine the assembly's agenda

• To oversee military operations

• To make all major political decisions

How were members of the heliastai chosen?

• By public vote

• By drawing lots from volunteers

• By appointment

• By inheritance

What was the primary function of the nomotetai in Athenian democracy?

• To manage finances

• To propose new laws

• To revise and give final verdicts on laws

• To conduct military operations

What was the difference between laws and decrees in ancient Athens?

• Decrees were written, laws were not.

• Laws were written and held more legitimacy.

• Laws were temporary, decrees were permanent.

• Decrees were for all citizens, laws were not.

What does direct democracy in ancient Athens primarily refer to?

• Only the elite making decisions

• The absence of any form of representation

• The election process by lot

• All citizens holding equal power