Elements Of Democrocy

Being Informed

Meaning: Having all the knowledge one needs to vote

Importance: To be a active citizen in the civic processes.

Ex: Watching the news, reading news papers, talking with peers.

Personal Freedom

Meaning: Everyone has the right of though, belief, and a political opinion

Importance: Basic right to express ones opion, and to speak freely about any matter without government restraint.

Ex: People in China must ask the government's permission before they are allowed to publish anything. In Canada you are free to express and the government has limits.

Personal Equality

Meaning: Equal citizenship, voting, equality, rights and free speech

Importance: Able to make good and knowledgeable decisions

Ex: In Canada everyone vote in a election has the same amount of power and count.

Rule Of Law

Meaning: No one is above the law

Importance: Assures all Canadians receive a fair trail and government accountability

Ex: Former Mayor Joe Fontana was charged and convicted of fraud because he misused public funds

Respect

Meaning: Regard for rights, traditions and beliefs

Importance: Accepting democratic decision-making, freedom of speech, equality before the law, social justice

Ex: When working and someone of higher power, older, or more knowledge asks you to do something you should obey and carry out duties

Human Dignity

Meaning: Treated with value and respect simply because you are human

Importance: Being valued and respected for what you are, what you believe in, and how you live your life.

Ex: When every individual respects another and honors their freedom and rights