Why was the government system described by Socrates not considered a true democracy?

The government system described by Socrates was not considered a true democracy primarily because it excluded women and slaves from participating in the political process. In ancient Athens, which is often cited as an early example of democracy, citizenship and the right to vote were restricted to free adult males who had completed their military training. This exclusion meant that a significant portion of the population, including women and enslaved individuals, had no say in government decisions, which contradicts the principle of equal participation that is central to democratic systems.

The other aspects mentioned in the incorrect options provide context for the limitations of ancient democracies. Wealth could influence political engagement, but the core issue here centers on exclusion based on gender and status. The presence of religious leaders wielding political power is more descriptive of theocratic systems rather than democratic ones. Additionally, the method of voting based on population size does not inherently negate democratic principles; rather, it pertains to how representation might be structured. Thus, the key factor in Socrates' critique lies in the exclusion of sizeable demographics from the political process.