Answer:
A democracy cannot function well unless the people (the "demos" in ancient Greek language) take an active role in educating themselves about issues in society and participating in civic life. Citizens exercise their rights to free speech and freedom of assembly, and especially cast their votes on issues (in referendum ballots) and for candidates for leadership offices. Some citizens may run for public offices and serve in that way, but all citizens are expected to be part of the political processes that keep the city, state or country operating in beneficial ways.
