E-ekklesia: The challenge of direct democracy and the ancient Athenian model

Abstract

In the present work we will examine the new possibilities Internet use can offer to Democracy to become more direct and give citizens the opportunity for more and direct participation in policy making. We will discuss the possibility of the creation of what we will call E-ekklesia, an electronic framework on the model of ancient Athens, where every citizen will be able to express his views and suggestions. We will also note the meaning and importance of the responsibility of citizens in a democracy and will examine whether the average citizen feels responsible for the current political situation and what this means for the present democracy.