A proper definition must be aligned upon the purpose. The purpose of the concept of democracy is to give the public an ability to influence government, even while a diversity of values and assumptions exists.

Representation is often viewed as the primary mechanism for achieving a democracy. I disagree. The varied differences in a complex society cannot be represented.

Instead, the proper method of creating public influence over government is the same method as determines what justice is. It is the result that occurs when openness and accountability allow truth to prevail. The result that truth produces is justice. It should also be the determining influence over democracy.

Elected representation is an important element of complex government, but it should not be what defines democracy due to its extreme limitations. Elected officials cannot defy the power of truth; so it should be the power of truth that defines democracy. The election process creates an element of openness and accountability but by no means the entire essence of that result.

Why were the White Rose members executed by the Nazis for putting up posters? Because the Nazis could not tolerate the power of truth. The Nazis were originally elected officials who lied their way into government. After they acquired power, there was no getting them out, as they murdered their political opponents in public hangings every few months.

The power of truth is produced through openness and accountability. The number one problem in government at this time is the darkness of concealment that prevents truth from being produced. Opening up government would solve the problems on a dime.