Rule by the people is democracy, democracy at it's truest. That does explain why we don't agree on the eu, they hate true democracy or any watered down semblance of it too.

For many of us, being well off is secondary to our being independent.

The majority felt the same way in 1939.

Don't you mistake rule by the people with criticising afterwards any decision made by the government. There is a lot of that about.
I suppose when potus calls may, asking for the british military to tag along when the americans go to war in syria, she can't answer: just a moment donald, have to ask the people.
But what kind of questions do you lay for the public: shall we raise the retirement age, lower the voting age, chose between a full strenght nhs and free public transport. Could you, when asked, make a decision in the countries interest?

For many of us, being well off is secondary to our being independent.

Hi

The Swiss have lots of them, and they are very successful.

We don't have a direct democracy. Plus they need a double majority.

Succes factors are: a small population, high educational level, diect democracy since 1849.
And don't forget many initiatives/referenda are voted down in favour of governmental policies.

That's how Cuba ended up the way it is....

Ably assisted by US embargoes.