Democracy was introduced to ensure that the parties involved had a share of power. Democracy in a classical world is characterized by electing government officials through elections, protection of people’s freedom and rights, and active participation in civic life. Greece had two states that displayed difference in governorship and culture hence the differences in democracy. Athens portrayed democracy by involving men in elections annually and including only two years of military service hence promoting development while Spartans displayed less democratic forms of leadership with mandatory military service and partial involvement of citizens in election and leadership roles.
Athenian democracy that was introduced in the 6th century consisted of a political system with bills and legislations that allowed participation by adult male citizens. On the other hand, Sparta focused on a strong military foundation and discipline hence having an oligarchy with aristocracy, monarchy and democracy incorporated ( Calabrese,2018). Athenian democracy involved rule by people who represented a larger population. For instance, out of seven thousand men, a group of five hundred would be narrowed to groups of fifty (Osborne, 2010).The assembly would sit and discuss matters affecting the area of legislation including Military, social and political matters.
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On the other hand, Spartans democracy only included a few people (Ephros) elected annually to help the Monarchy to rule the area. Moreover, the Ephros and monarchy would join the general assembly during civic decision-making. Also, Athenian democracy favored men hence did not give women a lot of freedom and status while Spartan women were more independent hence could own property ( Calabrese,2018). Athenians were however considered more democratic and peaceful as they did not concentrate on controlling other territories. However, on the other hand, Spartans were considered militaristic as they sought to expand power and territories.
Lastly, Spartans had mandatory military service on their land-based army during fights and conquering. The service however affected infrastructural development. Athenians on the other hand were required to serve only two years of military service hence promoting development.
In conclusion, Spartans and Athenians displayed different forms of democracy. Athens was more democratic as people were involved in electing leaders. On the other hand, limited democracy in Spartan displayed less democracy and more dictatorship as citizens would only partly participate in the rule of law.
References
Calabrese, B. E. (2018). Fear in democracy: A study of Thucydides' political thought.
Osborne, R. (2010). Athens and athenian democracy . Cambridge University Press.
