What is democracy, how does it work, and where are its limits? Eamonn Butler offers an accessible introduction to its history, institutions and purposes, distinguishing elections from a political system that protects rights and freedoms. The book considers majority rule and minority rights, the rule of law, constitutional limits and judicial independence. It also examines criticisms of democratic practice and common assumptions that can obscure its weaknesses. For readers seeking a clearer understanding of democratic politics, it explores the conditions that support democracy and the reasons it can be distorted or lose public confidence.