Direct democracy and indirect democracy differ primarily in how citizens participate in decision-making. In direct democracy, individuals have the opportunity to vote directly on laws and policies, often seen in referendums or initiatives. This approach emphasizes direct citizen involvement and accountability. On the other hand, indirect democracy, commonly known as representative democracy, relies on elected officials to make decisions on behalf of the population. While indirect democracy allows for more practical governance in larger societies, it can create a disconnect between constituents and their representatives, as citizens often have limited direct influence over specific policy outcomes.