Early notions of power sharing were that all the powers of government must reside in one person or group of persons located at one place as it was felt that if the power to decide is dispersed, it would not be possible to take quick decisions and to enforce them but with the emergence of democracy these notions have changed as basic principles of democracy is that people are the source of all political power and in a democracy people rule themselves through institutions of of self governance,everyone has a voice in shaping public policies therefore power should be distributed among as many as citizens as possible.

The Notion of Power Sharing and Democracy

Power sharing refers to the distribution of power among different groups and individuals within a society. The notion of power sharing has evolved over time, particularly with the emergence of democracy as a popular form of government.

1. Democracy and Power Sharing

Democracy is a form of government where the people have a say in how they are governed. In a democracy, power is shared between the government and the people. This is done through various means such as free and fair elections, the rule of law, and the protection of human rights.

2. Devolution of Power

One of the key features of power sharing in a democracy is the devolution of power. This means that power is shared between different levels of government, such as the national, state, and local levels. Devolution of power allows for greater participation and decision-making by citizens at the local level.

3. Inclusive Governance

Another important aspect of power sharing in a democracy is inclusive governance. This means that different groups within society, such as ethnic and religious minorities, are included in the decision-making process. This helps to promote social cohesion and reduces the risk of conflict.

4. Checks and Balances

Finally, power sharing in a democracy is maintained through checks and balances. This means that the different branches of government, such as the executive, legislative, and judiciary, have the power to check each other's actions. This helps to prevent any one branch of government from becoming too powerful.

In conclusion, the notion of power sharing has changed with the emergence of democracy. In a democracy, power is shared between the government and the people, different levels of government, diverse groups within society, and through checks and balances. These changes have helped to promote greater participation, inclusivity, and accountability in government.