What Is Democracy We Can Prove?

A workable definition should be observable and auditable. Not a mood, a ritual, or a flag, but a system someone can inspect end-to-end.

Minimal definition

1. Open rules: All laws and election procedures are published in full, versioned, and accessible.
2. Fixed rights: A short bill of rights limits the majority (speech, due process, equality before law).
3. Transparent counting: Votes are recorded and auditable without revealing identity (public proofs, private ballots).
4. Peaceful alternation: Office holders can be replaced without force; losers concede through law.
5. Independent courts: Procedure-bound, reviewable, with reasons published.

Why “provable” matters

If a citizen cannot check rules, counts, and remedies, participation becomes trust or theater. A provable democracy minimizes faith and maximizes verification.

← Back