Define "democracy".

Democracy is fundamentally defined as a system of government where power is vested in the people. This means that citizens have the ability to participate in decision-making processes, typically through the election of representatives or direct votes on specific issues. Core principles of democracy include equality, freedom of expression, and the protection of individual rights.

In a democratic system, the legitimacy of the government derives from the consent of the governed, highlighting the importance of active citizen participation and accountability of leaders. This concept is central to various democratic frameworks, including representative democracy and direct democracy, which empower individuals to influence the policies and laws that govern their lives.

The other options describe forms of governance that do not align with democratic principles. For instance, a monarchy involves a single ruler, such as a king, holding power, often without direct input from the populace. A government under strict military control indicates a form of authoritarian rule where decisions are made unilaterally by military leaders, bypassing any participatory action from citizens. Lastly, a government based on religious laws infers a theocratic system, where religion dictates laws and governance, limiting individual freedoms and democratic engagement. Thus, the definition of democracy is clearly distinguished by its emphasis on popular sovereignty and civil liberties.