Question

why do some people hold that the United States is more properly called a republic rather than a democracy?

Answer 1

Some people hold that the US is more properly called a Republic than a democracy because in this last one a Constitution is no needed because the majority can basically modify law at an urge. This is completely different in a Republic because in this system there is a law above the government, and in the U.S., there is a written Constitution. Also, the American Pledge of Allegiance declares it to be a republic: "...and to the republic for which it stands, one nation..." What is more, in a republic citizens are required to participate and they have less direct control over government.

Answer 2

The reason people argue that America is a republic rather than a democracy is based on the definition of these two terms.

A republic is a system of government in which citizens have the ultimate power. These individuals will vote representatives into local, state, and national governments in order to make decisions and laws for the greater good.

On the other hand, a democracy usually consists of individuals voting on almost every element of society. In America, this is not the case. Only in certain circumstances do citizens get the chance to vote on laws being passed. On a national level, laws are made by representatives. This is why individuals argue that the US can be more accurately labeled a republic instead of a democracy.