What is a common characteristic of a representative democracy?

A common characteristic of a representative democracy is that citizens elect representatives. In this system, the elected officials are responsible for making decisions and passing laws on behalf of the people. This structure allows for a more manageable form of governance, especially in larger populations, as it would be impractical for all citizens to vote directly on every issue.

In representative democracies, elected representatives are accountable to their constituents, and their actions can reflect the will of the people they represent. This form of government aims to create a connection between the electorate and the governing body, ensuring that citizens have a role in shaping the laws and policies that affect their lives.

The other options describe different forms of governance. Direct public voting on issues pertains to a direct democracy, where citizens vote directly on laws and policies. Government control over all aspects reflects autocratic or totalitarian systems, where power is centralized and individual freedoms are limited. Approval from a monarch suggests a monarchy, where a single ruler holds power, often inherited rather than elected.