Participatory democracy complements representation with standing, structured ways for citizens to deliberate and decide on public questions. Poliarchism proposes that these channels be institutional, routine and lawful rather than occasional.
In brief
- Representation remains, but it is not the only channel.
- Deliberation in organised, accountable forums.
- Participation designed into institutions, not left to goodwill.
For discussion
Where in today’s system do citizens decide something directly, and how often?