Final answer:
In a democracy, minorities are protected through the Bill of Rights and legal safeguards to prevent oppression by the majority. The Constitution and representative structures function to ensure minority rights, alongside social justice movements advocating for equality and enforcement of these protections.
Step-by-step explanation:
In a democracy, while the majority rules, minorities are protected through legal safeguards such as the Bill of Rights and other constitutional guarantees. These protections are in place to prevent oppression by the majority, ensure that minority rights are respected, and that individuals are not deprived of certain unalienable rights regardless of the will of the majority. For instance, even if a large portion of the population holds a negative view about atheists, the rights of atheist minorities would still be protected under these legal frameworks. Therefore, the correct answer is A) Through the Bill of Rights and legal safeguards.
It is crucial to recognize that in representative democracies like the United States, the Constitution plays a significant role in defining civil rights and establishing mechanisms for their enforcement. While majoritarianism may influence the shaping of society, constitutional limits are set to protect minorities. These fundamental protections are essential to maintain a balanced and fair society where all members are respected.
It is also important to acknowledge the role of minorities and their allies in forming groups and leading movements for social justice and equality to ensure that their rights are protected and enforced.