What is the difference between a democracy and a republic?

The distinction between a democracy and a republic primarily revolves around the role of direct citizen participation and the structure of government. In a democracy, particularly a direct democracy, citizens have the opportunity to directly vote on legislation and policy decisions, allowing for immediate public input into governance. This indicates a system where the majority opinion directly influences the laws and actions of the government, highlighting active participation by the populace in shaping their own policies.

On the other hand, a republic is characterized by a system where representatives are elected by the populace to make decisions on their behalf. This representative structure can provide a buffer against the potential tyranny of the majority, as elected officials are expected to consider the rights and interests of all citizens, not just those of the majority. While both systems emphasize the importance of the people's voice, the method by which that voice is expressed and acted upon differentiates the two.

Thus, the correct emphasis on "direct voting by the populace" in a democracy illustrates one of the fundamental features that set it apart from a republic, which relies on elected representatives.