This is not really in answer to one of your questions, Tedob1, but more of an additional thought. My undergraduate degree was in military history (tactics and strategy) and I remember a particular question/dilemma came up early in my studies regarding the delegates of the Second Continental Congress. They were struggling with the 'real meaning' of their elected position when deciding to vote for or against independence.

The dilemma some of the delegates struggled with was this: being elected by the people.....does this imply that the constituents have entrusted the elected official to directly carry out their wishes, wants, and interests? Or, does it rather imply that the people have put their trust in, and empowered the elected official to carry out what he thinks is best?

This does not apply to monarchies, dictatorships, and tyrannists.....it's just something to think about. Especially in situations like Tedob1's question.