What are the main principles and theories of democracy, and how do they inform political systems, governance structures, and civic participation?

Democracy is a political system based on principles such as popular sovereignty, majority rule, minority rights, political equality, and civic participation. Theories of democracy include deliberative democracy, representative democracy, direct democracy, and participatory democracy, each emphasizing different aspects of political participation, accountability, and legitimacy. Democratic governance structures vary globally, ranging from presidential systems to parliamentary systems, federalism, and hybrid models.