Concept:
- The clearest way to separate the two is to imagine one ordinary citizen and ask what that person can do under each system.
- The answer differs at every step.
Step 1: Can the citizen choose the ruler.
In a democracy yes, through a vote of equal value cast at regular elections. In a dictatorship no, because the ruler takes and keeps power without an election.
Step 2: Can the citizen remove the ruler.
In a democracy yes, simply by voting differently at the next election, and the change of government happens peacefully. In a dictatorship there is no lawful way to replace the ruler at all.
Step 3: Can the citizen criticise the ruler.
In a democracy yes, since freedom of speech and expression is a guaranteed right and a free press exists. In a dictatorship criticism invites punishment and the press is controlled.
Step 4: Can the citizen get a wrong put right.
In a democracy yes, through independent courts, elected representatives and public opinion. In a dictatorship the same authority that caused the harm also decides the complaint, so redress is unlikely.
Final Answer: Judged from the position of an ordinary citizen, a democracy allows the ruler to be chosen, removed, criticised and held answerable, while a dictatorship permits none of these.