How much should citizens influence the government's law making? As in, should we have all the say in what laws are passed or should the government completely decide for all of us what laws are made? And why?

How much should citizens influence the government's law making? As in, should we have all the say in what laws are passed or should the government completely decide for all of us what laws are made? And why?
Assuming you live in a country with a democratic representative govt. ;our system works best when there is an active and engaged citizenry. Many times there are special interest groups that lobby on behalf of legislation you may be interested in .But your taking the time to contact your representatives has a huge impact.