What is one key characteristic of democracy?

A key characteristic of democracy is regular and fair elections. This facet is fundamental because it ensures that the authority of the government is derived from the consent of the governed. Regular elections allow citizens to choose their representatives and voice their preferences for policies, enabling a mechanism for accountability and participation in the political process. The principle of fairness in elections ensures that all contestants have an equal opportunity to succeed, which is essential for a true democratic system.

In contrast, centralized power, taxation without representation, and absolute rule by a monarch undermine democratic principles. Centralized power reduces the distribution of authority that characterizes democratic systems, where power is often shared between various branches of government. Taxation without representation is a concept that goes against the democratic ideal of citizens having a say in how they are governed, as it implies that people are being taxed without their input. Likewise, absolute rule by a monarch indicates a lack of democratic processes, as it concentrates power in the hands of one individual rather than allowing for the people's participation through elections. Thus, the option highlighting regular and fair elections stands out as the crucial element that supports the definition and practice of democracy.