The Ancients imposed the following 15 safeguards on democratic power – the precise restraints they knew were necessary to prevent the multitude from destroying the state.

We abandoned every single one of them.

1. Citizenship after Three Generations

2. Exclusion of Citizens with Criminal Convictions

3. Prohibition of Dual Citizenship

4. Property Qualifications for Voting and Office

5. Political Rights tied to Military Service

6. Exclusion of Resident Foreigners and Immigrants

7. Age Restrictions for Political Participation

8. Loss of Rights for Immorality and Impiety

9. Moral Character Examinations for Office

10. Educational Requirements for Office

11. Exclusion of Citizens Indebted to the State

12. Disenfranchisement of Citizens Associated with Tyranny or Sedition

13. Loss of Rights for Extended Absence from the City

14. Exclusion of Citizens Dependent on Public Welfare

15. Household Representation in Voting