Final answer:
The effect of democracy in ancient Athens led to increased political participation among free adult male citizens, reduced aristocratic power, and fostered communal governance, though it excluded women and non-citizens from the democratic process.
Step-by-step explanation:
Effect of Democracy in Ancient Athens
The birth of democracy in ancient Athens was a pivotal moment in history. Athenian democracy was characterized by a system of direct democracy where free adult male citizens could vote on legislation and executive bills. This form of government allowed citizens to participate directly in the decision-making process, creating a sense of inclusion and civic responsibility among those eligible. The democratic reforms initiated by figures like Solon and Cleisthenes expanded political participation and outlawed debt slavery, laying the foundations for Athenian democracy to flourish in the 5th century BCE.
However, it's worth noting that democracy in Athens was far from inclusive by modern standards. Women, slaves, and foreign residents were not allowed to participate in the democratic process. Despite this, the implementation of democracy helped to significantly reduce the power of the aristocracy, allowed for more equality among male citizens, and fostered a greater communal sense of identity.
In summary, Athenian democracy had profound effects on its society by reducing aristocratic dominance, introducing direct political participation for male citizens, and encouraging a communal approach to governance, although it excluded women and non-citizens from the political process.