How does Athens' direct democracy differ from a representative democracy?

Athens' direct democracy is characterized by the active participation of its citizens in the law-making process, which is fundamentally different from a representative democracy. In a direct democracy, citizens engage directly in political decision-making and legislative processes, voting on laws and policies themselves rather than relying on elected officials to do so on their behalf. This form of government allowed citizens in Athens to have a more immediate and personal influence on political matters, making laws through assemblies and votes.

In contrast, the other choices reflect aspects of a representative democracy, where elected officials or delegations make decisions on behalf of the people, suggesting a more indirect form of citizen involvement. By focusing on the citizens' direct engagement in law-making, this answer highlights the fundamental operational difference between the two types of democratic systems.