The Greeks invented Democracy, the Romans refined it

Democracy is a great invention. The Greek Philosophers and scientists had a great thing going with Mathematics, Physics, Philosophy. Geometry and Metaphysics. Music Theory was invented by Pythagoras who saw a correlation between numbers and tones leading to much exploration in Tonalities and Acoustics. Ancient Greek musical instruments include the lyre and the flute which were the forerunners of modern-day stringed and wind instruments respectively. Spiritual thought as practiced then was not really sophisticated compared to India which was more advanced than the Greeks. Their idea of religion consisted of fanciful beings which were more human-like in temperament and actuations than godlike. The Arts and Literature also flourished as with Architecture, Medicine and the practical application of science to war-making pursuits. It could therefore not be helped that these brilliant minds interacting with other brilliant minds would turn their attention to the question of Ruling and Rulers. Of course, at the time it was really the warriors and the kings that held power in Greece and although there was general freedom and people had rights, slavery was also found there.

The idea that the People shouild rule instead of the Warriors and kings was very bold and innovative thinking. It was also difficult to implement in actual practice. This ideal was also slanted in favor of some enlightened, wise ruler who would be much more agreeable than physically-powerful monarchs with less-developed consciences.

The Romans implemented Democracy and refined it in a comprehensive set of laws with which to govern. They instituted the Cursus Honorum which dictates the various steps which a man has to take before he could ascend to the top. This would serve as a training ground for would-be rulers The top position was not a solo gig as in today's democracy but a three-way affair with three men sharing power. This was to avoid a dictatorship. Armies were not allowed to enter Rome in order to prevent the slide into Monarchic rule. Julius Caesar broke this rule when he crossed the Rubicon and established himself as supreme ruler. Although Rome eventually degenerated to Imperial Rule, it did observe an advanced system of Rights which citizens could have compared to other empires and kingdoms. The main power was the senate which could select ruling consuls. This senate was composed of aristocrats so the Roman republic was in reality an Aristocracy instead of real Democracy.