In a democratic context, what does the term "majority rule" signify?

The term "majority rule" in a democratic context signifies that decisions and policies are determined by the majority of the votes cast. This fundamentally means that a candidate or policy must receive a minimum of 51% of the vote to be enacted. This principle is rooted in the idea that the preferences of the majority should guide the decisions made in a democratic society, as it is believed that this approach best reflects the will of the populace.

The concept is crucial for ensuring that the outcome of elections and legislative decisions represents the preferences of most citizens, fostering a sense of legitimacy and stability within the system. When a decision is made based on a majority, it reflects a collective agreement that supports the prevailing viewpoint, thus ensuring that governance remains accountable to the electorate.

In contrast, other interpretations—such as reaching a consensus among all parties or providing equal representation of all views—do not properly align with the definition of majority rule, as they often imply a more collaborative or balanced decision-making process that isn't solely reliant on the numerical superiority of one group over another. The notion of policies being enacted with less than 50% support fundamentally contradicts the principle of majority rule, which insists that more than half must agree for a decision to be made.