Monarchy vs republic?

[Bamspeedy]

I haven't switched from republic to democracy in a very long time (I usually stay in Monarchy for conquest games, or I go from Monarchy-Democracy, late in the game). But the last time I did go from Republic to Democracy, I only saw something like less than a 10% increase in commerce. If you are non-religious and end up going through 6 turns of anarchy, then it would take ~60 turns to earn back all the money you lost during your anarchy (assuming you are only getting a 10% improvement in commerce going from republic-democracy). If there was/is say a 20% improvement, then it would still take ~30 turns.

But the faster workers in democracy will allow you to help speed up that recovery period, but by that time you should have much of your core cities' terrain close to fully developed anyways....

 

[Sirp]

A 10% increase Bamspeedy? From what I've seen it's only a couple of percent. Something absolutely pitiful.

For 10% it would be marginally tempting, although very marginally.

-Sirp.

 

[Tarwoch]

Republic is useful while technologically advancing and increasing the cash, but only if you have not very strong military. Units are so expensive (on supporting) during the times of Republic that if your neighbors are aggressive -- you'd rather not switch to this type of govt.
Switching between Monarchy and Republic causes periods of Anarchy that can completely destabilize your empire (unless you are religious)...

 

[Aramazd]

Repulic in peace and war