Which form of government has ultimate authority based directly on the will of the people?

• A. Republic
• B. Oligarchy
• C. Democracy
• D. Monarchy

Answer: (C)

Democracy captures the idea that the people hold ultimate authority and that government should reflect the will of the citizens. In a democracy, people participate in decision-making and have the power to influence laws and policies. The phrase “based directly on the will of the people” points to direct involvement by citizens, which is a hallmark of democracy. A republic also rests on the people’s power, but through elected representatives who make decisions on their behalf, so it’s not always directly tied to every individual will. Oligarchy is rule by a few, and monarchy is rule by one, neither of which centers power in the general will of the people. So democracy best fits the idea of authority derived from the people.