As a value system that is accepted by most countries, the basis of democracy is both
rational and congruent with human nature.
It affirms an individual's value and rights in a group. But it also believes that the dark
side of human nature, especially when it comes to wielding power, can be more easily
tempted to rear its ugly head under a democratic system. Hence the stress on check
and balances on power.
Seen in terms of the distribution of power, the emphasis of democracy is really about
the rights which people should enjoy in relation to the country and the political
processes.
The rights may be viewed as "natural" or "contractual", but they should not be taken
away from the people for whatever reason.
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