Know the roots of the American democratic system. Understand that the United States is only approaching a truly democratic system. Specifically understand the important institutions and traditions that work to sustain the core democratic ideals - including meaningful participation, the commitment to freedom and equality, an independent judiciary, civilian control of the military and police, and a cultural commitment to democratic ideals. America's Approach to Democracy. A. Democracy as an Evolutionary Process.
Democracy is an ideal and the United States has continually attempted to approach that ideal.
Countries, including the United States, can fall short of that ideal. In addition, while a democratic form of government may provide a framework for a free society, it does not in and of itself guarantee freedom. B. Forming a Picture of Democracy. People govern themselves by making policy decisions. In an indirect, representative democracy, voters select representatives to make decisions.