Demokratie: Wie definitert man die Demokratie

It is very much expected to be bombarded with endless viewpoints with a diverse cultural background in a particular group.

This was something that struck me during class yesterday. Discussion was about the general formation of a country/states, and the lecturer went on about the various forms of democracy, and some threats that are faced by them.

Then the one question that ignited the discussion:
How would you put a definition to democracy?

The lecturer's first response was: when the people have freedom to vote, enjoy equal legislature and rights etc.. Then the question: not all countries practice a highly liberal form of democracy like here, notwithstanding that many others are still having problems putting 3 meals on the table! So while the guy was giving examples from his home country and region, the lecturer was answering with words in the range of more.. less democractic.

In actual fact - is democracy really the ultimate utopia that we are aiming towards? Of course, we will all want to have some freedom to express our views, and have our interests met. However, which is more important - to satisfy our basic needs of lodging, food etc or to have my interest met with an empty stomach?

the world has been and will be all so unpredictable. this is purely natural. I do not know if I will lose my roof over my head, or if I will lose things that are dear to me.

indeed, i am sceptical if the human race will ever reach to such a state where everyone exercises their rights in a responsible manner in consideration of the other members in the society. even the definition of "responsible" is so subjective, and a debate on this would be endless! I am not trying to insinuate any radical ideology or otherwise, but the perspectives of some of the locals living in one of the world's most affluent societies and how they view the world really shows that in some way, their lifestyles have moulded their priorities and thoughts.

again, a problem between the process and the end result - which is more important?

or maybe i should try to put myself in their shoes?