Kleroterion

A Kleroterion was an ancient Greek device used to select citizens randomly for public duties, such as juries or government positions. It was a stone slab with rows of slots and channels, where citizens' tokens and colored balls were placed. By operating the device, a random process determined who would serve, ensuring fairness and reducing bias in civic participation. This method exemplified Athens’ commitment to democratic principles by allowing citizens to be chosen by chance rather than favoritism or election. The Kleroterion helped maintain a balanced and equitable system of civic duty assignments in ancient Athens.