- Representative government: The idea that citizens should elect representatives to make decisions on their behalf is a fundamental principle of both ancient Greek and Roman democracy. This principle is reflected in the modern system of representative democracy, in which citizens elect representatives to serve in legislative bodies such as parliaments or congresses.
- Rule of law: The ancient Greeks and Romans believed that the law should be supreme and that everyone, including those in power, should be subject to the law. This principle is reflected in the modern concept of the rule of law, which holds that everyone is equal before the law and that no one is above the law.
- Freedom of speech and expression: The ancient Greeks and Romans placed great value on freedom of speech and expression. This value is reflected in the modern concept of freedom of speech, which is protected in many modern democracies by constitutional guarantees.
- Civic participation: The ancient Greeks and Romans believed that it was important for citizens to participate in the political process. This value is reflected in the modern concept of civic participation, which refers to the involvement of citizens in political activities such as voting, running for office, and volunteering for community organizations.
- Trial by jury: The ancient Greeks and Romans used a system of trial by jury in which a group of citizens would hear evidence and decide on a verdict. This system is reflected in the modern system of trial by jury, which is used in many common law countries.
- Checks and balances: The ancient Greeks and Romans often used checks and balances to prevent any one branch of government from becoming too powerful. This principle is reflected in the modern system of checks and balances, which separates powers among different branches of government and establishes mechanisms for each branch to limit the powers of the others.
- Public service: The ancient Greeks and Romans believed that it was a civic duty for wealthy citizens to serve in public office. This value is reflected in the modern concept of public service, which refers to the work that people do for the benefit of the public rather than for personal gain.