[muzani]

I've noticed that democratic communities fall apart fast. Democracy works for countries, but on a forum, people will just leave and self-select. If a community leader is unpopular enough, it will branch into a new one and grow or die.

Edit: However I would add that democracy in the form of downvotes and flags usually work well. It can backfire especially around hot topics, but a moderator can usually judge whether or not it is. Such moments are very tough on mods though.