Athenian Democracy

Understanding Parliamentary Systems

Throughout history, societies have experimented with various forms of governance and parliamentary systems. Often distinct systems are conflated with one another and lead to uncertainty with how the system works.

Athens, in Ancient Greece, was the birthplace of democracy. The city-state first began democratic processes around the year 508 BC. However, Athens has been the exception because monarchic rule has often been typical throughout history. It is only in the past 400 years that democracy began to be widespread. The recent expansion of Democracy is attributed to the English and French empires, as well as the Cold War.

Image belongs to Copyright Holder. Image of a nineteenth century painting by Philipp Foltz.

How was the English and French Democracy formed?

The British monarch gradually ceded power to Parliament over several centuries. Such as the Magna Carta in 1215, which limited royal authority. The English Civil War (1642-1651), culminated in the execution of Charles I and the establishment of the Commonwealth under Oliver Cromwell. The Glorious Revolution of 1688 solidified parliamentary supremacy with the Bill of Rights of 1689, which restricted the monarchy’s powers and affirmed parliamentary control. 

In contrast, Louis XVI of France lost power swiftly during the French Revolution (1789-1799). Financial crises and widespread discontent led to the calling of the Estates-General in 1789. The formation of the National Assembly by the Third Estate marked a shift in power. The storming of the Bastille, subsequent uprisings, and the eventual rise of radical revolutionary factions resulted in Louis XVI’s arrest, trial, and execution by guillotine in 1793, ending centuries of absolute monarchy in France.

Louis XVI Execution Painting
Image belongs to Copyright Holder. Image from – PRISMA ARCHIVO/Alamy

Parliamentary Systems

A parliamentary system is characterised by a dual executive structure. Where the head of state (President or Monarch) is distinct from the head of government (Prime Minister). Countries like the United Kingdom, Canada, and India operate under this system. The prime minister, typically the leader of the majority party in parliament, wields executive power. The Prime Minister is accountable to the legislature and their parties members.

AdvantagesDis-advantages
The majority party’s control of both the executive and legislative branches streamlines law-making.The majority party can dominate the legislative process, potentially marginalising minority voices.
Majority governments can pass legislation with fewer obstacles, providing stability.Frequent elections and the need to maintain parliamentary support may encourage short-term policy decisions.

Monarchic Rule

Monarchies are among the oldest forms of governance, where a single individual, the monarch, rules until death or abdication. Monarchies can be absolute or constitutional. In absolute monarchies, such as Saudi Arabia, the monarch has extensive or complete power. Constitutional monarchies, like those in the UK and Japan, limit the monarch’s powers, often relegating them to ceremonial duties, with real political power resting in elected bodies. 

Image belongs to Copyright Holder. Image from – Reuters
AdvantagesDisadvantages
Monarchies, especially constitutional ones, provide a sense of historical continuity and stability.The monarch’s power is unchecked, leading to potential abuses of power and corruption.
Succession rules are often well-defined, reducing the uncertainty and power struggles common in other systems.Citizens have little to no role in governance, which can lead to disenfranchisement and lack of representation.

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All Images belong to Copyright Holders

Cover Image – nineteenth century painting by Philipp Foltz.