An example of government is a regime governed by democratic ideas. A government under this type of government has specific qualities that distinguish it as a democracy. For example, many people can impact a democracy; they may possess some power. "It is true that we call ourselves democracy, because the administration is in the hands of the many and not the few" (Benjamin Jowett). However, when a citizen stands out among the people, it can be a positive aspect towards public service. As we read in Thucydides' History, "when a citizen distinguishes himself in some way, he is preferred to public service, not as a matter of privilege, but as a reward of merit" (Benjamin Jowett). A citizen who is different from others should not be considered as an advantage towards public service, but as a gift of excellence. A democracy allows citizens to have this ability. Furthermore, a democratic government consists of laws that create fairness among citizens. "But while the law guarantees equal justice to all in private disputes, the right to excellence is also recognized" (Benjamin Jowett). Conflicts and problems may occur in a society, but laws play a role in taming them. This is one reason why people are afforded the same amount of justice and fairness with each other. Two characteristics of a democracy include having a single citizen who is fair to the public and allowing laws to protect fair play for all. Another type of government is an association under absolute control. Absolutism is the idea of ruling by divine right, in which the ruler may appear to believe he or she is superior. This idea can be the cause to persuade rulers to be better than other parties. As stated in A History of Western…half of the document…democracy ends because Ralph does not receive enough respect from others and lacks the ability to govern effectively. Ralph's formation of his democratic government goes awry when these two characteristics lead to the formation of another society that ruins his own. In the real world, there are two forms of government: absolute government and democratic government. A government under absolute control does not guarantee citizens the right freedom or rights, while a government under a democratic government does. Citizens play a role in both of these types of government. Under absolute control, they serve the government. In a democracy they have equal rights, just like an authority figure. In Lord of the Flies, a character named Ralph tries to start a democracy that consists of justice and freedom, but is unable to complete this effort due to these flaws.
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