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The ancient Greek lottery and modern democracies

In: The Crisis of Democracy in the Age of Cities

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  • Irad Malkin

Abstract

Modern democracies claim to continue the legacy of those who invented democracy, the ancient Athenians. However, in the aftermath of the American and the French revolutions, as a reaction against democratic forces, the leaders chose elections of representatives (“republics”) over the drawing of lots, the basis of the ancient Athenian democracy. Whereas sovereignty and legislation remained with the general Athenian Assembly, most functions and magistracies were drawn by lot, such as the Council of 500, the ten archons (our “ministers”), 6000 judges, etc. The term of office was one year, and the rotation was frequent. Citizenship was understood as “sharing in the polis,” and Aristotle saw the polis as a “partnership,” koinonia. The drawing of lots was an excellent means of citizen engagement. By contrast, modern democracies do not encourage “sharing in the state,” accompanied by ignorance and alienation from what is political. Elections favor elites. The difference between an oligarchy and a democracy, said Aristotle, is that oligarchy is based on elections, whereas a democracy is based on drawing lots. We need to bear that in mind.

Suggested Citation

  • Irad Malkin, 2023. "The ancient Greek lottery and modern democracies," Chapters, in: Juval Portugali (ed.), The Crisis of Democracy in the Age of Cities, chapter 2, pages 24-30, Edward Elgar Publishing.
    • Handle: RePEc:elg:eechap:21553_2
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    File URL: https://www.elgaronline.com/doi/10.4337/9781803923055.00009
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