Polity Atlas

How each model solves the same problems

Instead of “democracy versus anarchism”, compare the concrete ways collective problems get solved.

Question✕✕✕
How are decisions made?Assembly of male citizens voted on laws and policy; a Council of 500 chosen by lot prepared its agenda; most offices were filled by lot, generals by election.Popular assemblySortition / citizens' assemblyTerm limits and rotation of officeUnknownEach listed body sets its own well-being objectives and steps; the Welsh Ministers publish national indicators and a future trends report after each election.
How are conflicts resolved?Large citizen juries selected by lot judged cases; ostracism could send a prominent citizen away for ten years without trial.UnknownThe Commissioner may review a body and recommend; the body must take reasonable steps to follow or publish reasons (s 22). The Auditor General examines application of the principle.
How are public goods funded?Pay for Assembly, Council and jury service came from public funds; wealthy citizens also financed festivals and warships through liturgies.UnknownCovers the Welsh Ministers, local authorities, health boards, national park authorities and other listed bodies; public services boards plan locally.
How is AI used?No documented AI role.UnknownNo documented AI role.
What are the main risks?Narrow citizen body; swings of opinion and demagoguery in the Assembly; dependence on empire and war; conquest by Macedon.UnknownSoft 'follow or explain' enforcement; procedural compliance; difficulty measuring long-term and preventative benefits.

This illustrates differences in design; it is not a universal claim about outcomes. Each cell links to mechanisms and the claims behind them.