By definition, a republic is a representative form of government that is ruled according to a charter, or constitution, and a democracy is a government that is ruled according to the will of the majority. Although these forms of government are often confused, they are quite different. The main difference between a republic and a democracy is the charter or constitution that limits power in a republic, often to protect the individual’s rights against the desires of the majority. In a true democracy, the majority rules in all cases, regardless of any consequences for individuals or for those who are not in the majority on an issue.
Variations
Adding to the confusion over the difference between the two forms of government is the fact that, in practice, there are many variations of each. For example, a representative democracy is one in which, like a republic, officials are elected to vote on behalf of the people on most issues, rather than having all of the citizens vote on every issue. Furthermore, a constitutional democracy is a representative democracy in which the government’s power is restricted by a constitution. In essence, this is a republic, so for practical purposes, the difference between a republic and a constitutional democracy is often largely one of semantics.
Government by the People
In both types of government, decisions are made by the people or their representatives rather than by a monarch. The head of state, in most cases, is referred to as a president and is elected by the people, directly or indirectly. Government representatives in either type of government also are elected by the people. In a direct democracy, in which people themselves vote on all issues, government officials or representatives merely carry out the will of the majority rather than voting on behalf of the people.
Protecting Individuals’ Rights
A true democracy is rare because of the potential for it to turn into what might be called “mob rule.” This occurs when the majority makes decisions that benefit itself at the expense of the minority. For example, a racial, religious or socioeconomic class that consists of more than 50% of the voting population could — theoretically — vote to give itself certain benefits or to oppress or restrict those in the minority. In a true democracy, there is no legal power that protects minorities.
In a republic or a constitutional democracy, however, the charter or constitution typically guarantees certain rights to individuals or minority groups. This prevents those rights from being taken away or infringed upon by the will of the majority. This protection is fundamental for the republican form of government.
http://www.wisegeek.com/what-is-the-difference-between-a-republic-and-a-democracy.htm
According to Plato’s “Republic”, yes I read it, a Republic is where the people are ruled by philosopher kings. Weather they are elected, selected, or self appointed, the country is ruled by an Elite class.
Isn’t that what every country has now?
I want to live in a voluntary society where there are rules but no rulers.
I want to live in a society where the “Markets” decide what are the best products and vendors succeed and not the most politically connected.
I want to live in a society where a currency is mutually decided upon by whoever is making a trade.
I want to live in a society where two disputing parties can select an arbitrator and the fairest will continue in business and the bad ones go out of business.
I want to live in a society where craft guilds compete in building standards rather than politicians.
I want to live in a society where you can do what ever you want as long as it does no harm to another or violate anothers natural rights.
There is no such thing as freedom and liberty under any form of government.
Government is force and works for its own interests.
Thank you. Most Americans simply cannot grasp this – as well most conservative Talking Head Morons like Hannity, Hedgecock, Limbaugh, etc., as they CONSTANTLY scream “we’re a democracy!”
Agreed, Gemini. Just another reason how you know o’ bullshite NEVER studied Constitutional law as he has referred to our government as a democracy repeatedly in a single speech. NO true student of law would/could ever make a mistake like that and as a standing president, said person would be compelled to clarify that to his people.
So simple, but so difficult for some to grasp.
Democracy = Fascism
The original symbol of fascism is a bundle of thin reeds. It represents powerless individuals and groups coming together to gain power. A hatchet head is often mounted on the bundle of fasci, representing the power attained through unity:
http://www.notbeinggoverned.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/fascism1.jpg
That’s Democracy, where majority rules. The US Republic limits the power of “mob rule” with inalienable constitutional rights — the Bill of Rights (first 10 amendments)
One of my favorite videos, “The American Form of Government.”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DioQooFIcgE
PS: 10.5 minute clip.