In the history of western political thought, representation has been seen as the defining characteristic of modern states, be they republics or constitutional monarchies. It stands in contrast to both despotism and tyranny on the one hand, and direct self-rule of the kind associated with ancient Greek democracy on the other. Representation became crucial in mixed constitutions, such as the Roman Republic, the model of so many states, including the United States of America. The invention, and desirability, of representation, as something which allowed the people to participate in government, while limiting their alleged potential for disruption, and propensity for mob rule or populism, has always been an intensely discussed turning point in our political memory.