Ancient Greek 101
- Introduction to Ancient Greek Culture
- Basics of Ancient Greek Language
- Ancient Greek Literature
- Basics of Ancient Greek Language II
- The Philosophers of Ancient Greece
- Intermediate Ancient Greek Language Practice
- The Birth of Democracy
- Intermediate Ancient Greek Language II
- Ancient Greek Mythology
- Advanced Ancient Greek Language
- Arts and Architecture in Ancient Greece
- Advanced Ancient Greek Language II
The Birth of Democracy
Comparing Ancient and Modern Government Systems
Greek civilization from c. 1200 BC to c. 600 AD.
The birthplace of democracy, Ancient Greece, particularly Athens, has had a profound influence on the development of government systems around the world. The Athenian democracy was a unique system of governance that was quite different from the representative democracies we are familiar with today.
Athenian Democracy vs. Modern Democracy
Athenian democracy was a form of direct democracy where all eligible citizens had the right to participate in decision-making. This was possible because Athens was a small city-state with a relatively small population. Citizens would gather in the Assembly, where they would directly vote on legislation and executive bills.
In contrast, most modern democracies are representative democracies. Citizens elect representatives who make decisions on their behalf. This system is more practical for large nations with millions of citizens.
Influence on Modern Political Thought
Despite these differences, Athenian democracy has had a significant influence on modern political thought. The idea that power should be in the hands of the people, rather than a single ruler or a small group of elites, is a concept that originated in Athens and is a fundamental principle of modern democratic systems.
The Athenian concept of "isonomia", or equality under the law, is another principle that has been incorporated into modern political systems. This principle asserts that all citizens, regardless of their social or economic status, should be treated equally by the law.
Law and Justice in Ancient Greece
The role of law and justice in Ancient Greece was also significant. The Greeks believed in the rule of law, meaning that laws, not individuals, govern the state. This concept is a cornerstone of modern legal systems.
In Athens, legal cases were decided by large juries of ordinary citizens, not by professional judges. This was another way in which the Athenians put power in the hands of the people.
Conclusion
While the government systems of Ancient Greece were quite different from those of today, the influence of Greek political thought can still be seen in modern democracies. The principles of citizen participation, equality under the law, and the rule of law are all concepts that originated in Ancient Greece and continue to shape our political systems today.