Individual Freedom
Democracy can only thrive in an atmosphere of individual freedom, but it cannot consist of complete individual freedom. Absolute freedom can only exist in a state of anarchy. Democracy does state that each individual can be free to do what her of she wants as far as the freedom of all will allow. Democratic government must work constantly to strike the proper balance between the two. The authority of the government must be adequate to the needs of society, but also to never become so great that it restricts the individuals beyond necessity.