How is democracy different from other types of government?

Democracy is characterized by the principle of popular sovereignty, where power is derived from the consent of the governed, typically through free and fair elections. Unlike authoritarian regimes, where a single leader or a small group holds power without accountability, democracies encourage participation, individual rights, and the rule of law. Additionally, democracies often feature checks and balances among branches of government to prevent abuse of power, fostering transparency and accountability. This contrasts with systems like monarchies or dictatorships, where power is concentrated in the hands of a few.