Republic Versus Monarchy
Definition of a Republic
What is the meaning of the term "Republic"?
Being a political term, which has been in use for hundreds of years, a number of different meanings have been assigned to it. The basic conception of a Republic is that of a nation whose head of state is not a Monarch.
Definitions of the term "Republic" usually agree on certain basic principles. However, when the broader and intricate details of the concept are discussed, a vast multitude of definitions arise as to what a "Republic" is, or should be.
It is not necessary for us to discuss here the structural and operational details that "our" Republic would entail. There is such a myriad of possible alternatives and combinations of details available that it would necessitate a separate document.
For our purposes, a Republic shall be defined as:
"A state in which the supreme power rests in the body of citizens entitled to vote and is exercised by representatives chosen directly or indirectly by them" (The Macquarie Dictionary).(3)
Republic Versus Monarchy
Australian Nationalism Information Database - www.ausnatinfo.angelfire.com
