Question of the day: Democracy, does it work? Why or Why not?
Okay, so the dispute about what government types is the best, has probably been around as long as organized government has existed. Now, it's no surprise that the world's super powers are all under different systems of government. Just generally there is Democracy, something of a Constitutional monarchy, and Communism. The non super powers, I guess you can call them for purposes of simplicity, have varied governments. For example, Theocracy, which is probably the least popular and almost nonexistent government type. False Democracy and Dictatorships are others.
It's also no secret that the more democratic nations of the world (The United States) are accused of trying to bring democracy to other countries who do not have that government type. We all know how I feel about America and her antics (see Et Tu Brute). But this begs the question: Does Democracy really work? I'll tell you what I think from my observations in my own country and how other countries handle their rights.
Simply put, I think Democracy has potential. I think when executed in a certain way, with citizens who take it seriously and are educated about their government, Democracy can do big things. I say this because, I live in a country where a large percentage of people are not educated about their government and take their rights as citizens for granted. The right to vote being the major one. In the States, we have such a low percentage in regards to voter turn out. But I think this is quite ironic for a country of people who shout rights violation the first chance that they get, but then when it's time to let their voices be heard, they choose not to take action. Am I the only one who fails to see the logic in that?
Okay, so I am not the most politically aware person, but I am not completely ignorant either. I may not know who my state governor is (don't judge me) but I am aware of how the system works and if I want something to change I have to make my voice be heard when the time comes. I know not to sit and make uneducated complaints about how the government isn't doing its job, because I know that for the most part the government does what the people let it do. If you want better schools and your representative is not voicing your concerns properly, you have every right to protest, petition, or vote them out at the next election.
You know that phrase "Be the change you want to see"? Well, if you want something done, you gotta do it. Part of having a Democracy means, making decisions on your own behalf and having them put into action. Unjust laws can be challenged. Budget cuts that make no sense, can be challenged. It's all about asking questions and doing the research.Then, you take action!
So, for a country like mine, Democracy does not work. We take our rights for granted and many of us remain completely uneducated about the system as a whole. Now, in countries, like Italy, I think democracy has a better chance. The people are more involved in their political system and they seem to either be more educated about their government or more aware of the difference that their vote makes (hell it might be both!). Countries like Bolivia and Spain have protested against rights violations and corrupt government. These are examples of people who go for what they want. Instead of complaining about what's not getting done or how they don't approve of the system, they went out and showed the government what they were thinking and voiced their discontent.
These countries do not have the same constitutional protections as the US, so doing this is more dangerous for them. They have corrupt governments intent on staying in power and will kill to ensure that they do so. Maybe that's why they take voting more seriously than the States. They can appreciate the benefits of a more democratic government, because they know the hardship of something more strict.
What I'm saying is: as it stands now, democracy in the US is like giving a toddler a spoon. They know what it's for and have the potential to use it properly, but they just won't. I really do not understand. Just use it! It's there for you! Men have nearly caused this country to be separated forever, just so that you wouldn't be subjugated to the whims of leaders and you're just pissing away all of their hard work! Especially you, minority groups. You of all people should be the first at the polls. You know what it's like to have to fight, on an everyday basis, against rights violations.
If the citizens of the States were actually active members of their community and participated in their government, Democracy could end up being a kick-ass system. There are many other factors that play role in whether Democracy can work, but I think it starts with the people. Therefore, I think it has potential to work, even though it's not really doing much right now.
Just some thoughts and opinions I have. I didn't give actual percentages because I hate numbers, but the research has been done. Also, I hate politics with a passion, so I'm not as involved as I should be. Don't worry I'm working on it. I prefer to look at law and policy rather than people in speeches. Actually that might be more deeply rooted in my distaste for people... Honestly if you've ever seen an US campaign commercial, they aren't very informative. It's mostly bashing their opponent. If I wanted to see someone get called out for everything they ever did wrong in life, I could just read tabloid scandals. I want to know what my representatives can do for me. Do you share my concerns? How will you be better than the last guy or how will yo ix your mistakes and avoid making them again? You know? I want a real campaign, not reality television commercials. But I digress.
Be a part of your community and government, people. Trust me, it does benefit you in the end.
Also, be on the look out for my new web series coming soon. My girlfriend and I will teach you have cheap or free fun in your community and communities abroad. Look for Community Explorations. Trust me you'll have a good time watching us and trying our suggestions.
Until next time!
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