Like many Greek practises (such as cynical philosophy), ostracism has warped slightly in meaning for contemporary understanding. Yet the modern interpretation is not so far removed from its use in antiquity. In simple terms, ostracism in Athenian democracy was the expulsion, by popular vote, of any citizen for a decade. It was used both as a punishment but, more often, as a pre-emptive measure to stop would-be tyrants, and any threats to the state. Ostracism takes its name from 'ostraka', which were pieces of pottery upon which the name of the candidate was written. Pottery was by far more abundant than paper at this time, so fragments were often used as ballot chips. Each year, the Athenian assembly was asked if they wished to ostracise anyone, with the event itself occurring two months after. In typical democratic style, the candidate with the most votes (over a minimum threshold of 6,000) would be banished. Interestingly, this was not a legal process, simply a democratic one. No trial was held, and no defence could be mounted; when the votes were cast, whoever had the most was, simply, exiled.
