The concept of democracy originated in Athens from "summary" of The Greeks by Paul Cartledge
Paul Cartledge explains that the concept of democracy can be traced back to ancient Athens in the 5th century BCE. The Athenians, he argues, were the pioneers of this revolutionary system of government that gave power to the people. In Athens, all eligible citizens had the right to participate in the decision-making process through voting in the Assembly. This inclusive approach to governance was a radical departure from the autocratic rule prevalent in other city-states at the time. The Athenian democracy was not without its limitations, as only adult male citizens were considered full participants in the political life of the city. Women, slaves, and foreigners were excluded from the democratic process, highlighting the inherent inequalities of the system. Despite these shortcomings, the Athenian experiment with democracy laid the foundation for future political developments. The principles of equality, freedom of speech, and the rule of law were championed in Athens and continue to shape modern democratic societies around the world. Cartledge emphasizes the lasting impact of Athenian democracy on Western civilization, underscoring its enduring relevance in contemporary debates about citizenship, representation, and political participation. Through his exploration of the origins of democracy in Athens, Cartledge invites readers to reflect on the enduring legacy of this ancient political innovation.
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