Republic

A republic is a form of government where the country is considered a "public matter" and is not the private concern of rulers. In a republic, officials are elected by the citizens to represent their interests and make decisions on their behalf. Key features include the rule of law, the protection of individual rights, and a system of checks and balances to prevent any one branch of government from becoming too powerful. Examples of republics include the United States and France, where leaders are chosen through elections rather than inherited positions.