Which phrase best describes a Republic?

A Republic is best described as a system where citizens choose their representatives. This definition emphasizes the foundational principle of a Republic, which is rooted in the idea of a representative democracy. In a Republic, the authority comes from the citizens, who elect officials to make decisions and govern on their behalf. This contrasts with systems where power is concentrated in the hands of a single individual or a specific elite class, which would not align with the core principles of republicanism.

In a Republic, the elected representatives are accountable to the populace, which ensures that the government reflects the will of the people, upholding the values of justice, freedom, and equal representation. This system fosters civic engagement and participation, allowing citizens to have a voice in their governance.

Other options may describe different forms of government: a monarch is fundamentally different from a Republic as it centralizes power in one ruler; a government without leaders does not encapsulate the representative aspect; and a society ruled by an elite class suggests an oligarchy, not a system where popular choice prevails.