Who knows the difference Between a "Republic" form of government and a "Democracy"

Question

What's the difference and which one are we supposed to be. If anyone feels that we are operating in a different form than what was supposed to be, how did we the people let this happen?

Those who feel that we right where we are supposed to be, explain why.

Answer 1

In a republic, leaders and laws are chosen by representatives of the populace, elected by the people.  In a democracy, leaders and laws are chosen directly by the people.  The United States is a democratic republic, a republic with some democratic aspects.

Answer 2

None they both SUCK

Answer 3

Democracy: everyone votes on almost everything

Republic: elected officials

We are more of a republic, because we elect officials to vote on most things. But we are also part of a democracy because we all elect the officials.

It almost has to be this way. If it was a complete absolute democracy (which has been tried by different countries in the past) then nothing would get done. You know how long tallying votes takes for the elections, now imagine that every day because the American people would have to vote on something every day for something new.

Answer 4

Democracy: Literally meaning a "Government of the People" Meaning elections on how we are governed

A Republic is a government that has Representatives of the people.

America is A Democratic Republic, meaning that We elect people to represent us in Government (supposedly)

If you want my opinion: We have a Democratic Republic system set in place, but due to the apathy of your everyday American towards the government, it makes it very easy for a few people to run the show.