The ancient civilization known for its democratic ideals and philosophy is ancient Greece, particularly Athens. In the 5th century BCE, Athens developed a form of direct democracy where citizens participated directly in decision-making rather than through elected representatives. Philosophers such as Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle profoundly influenced Western thought, exploring ideas related to democracy, ethics, and governance. The Athenian emphasis on civic participation, philosophical inquiry, and rights of citizens laid foundational principles that would inspire modern democratic systems and political theories, making it a cornerstone of political philosophy and ethics.