The expressed preferences of each individual must have equal ranking, subject in certain instances to qualifications made necessary by the existence of justified authority. A forum for open debate has to be provided. In some part such a consequence stems from a broadening of the individual's cognitive horizons. Public accountability is a further basic characteristic of a democratic polity. In any political system decisions must often be taken on behalf of others.
Public debate is normally only possible in relation to certain issues or at particular junctures.
Decisions taken, or policies forged, however, must be open to public scrutiny should the need arise. Accountability can never be continuous and therefore stands in tandem with trust. Trust, which comes from accountability and openness, and also protects them, is a thread running through the whole of the democratic political order. It is a crucial component of political legitimacy. Institutionalising the principle of autonomy means specifying rights and obligations, which have to be substantive, not just formal.