Were ancient societies fair, equal or representative in terms of democracy?

by [deleted]

[deleted]

sleep-apnea

Mostly no. Most ancient societies were monarchies of some kind, meaning a ruling class controlling everyone else. Not to mention the widespread use of slavery. Ancient Athens is probably the most democratic. But even there citizenship was limited to the sons of former citizens (with a few exceptions). Additionally court decisions were based on popular vote. So the justice system was incredibly biased. There's a decent description of this process in Plato's "The Trial and Death of Socrates." Basically no ancient society would be considered fair, equal or representative based on modern standards.