THE TRUE CONTENT OF THE DEMOCRATIC IDEAL
There is a growing concern over the diminishing respect for democracy, a political ideal that has often been misused to mean various things, including equality. Democracy originally referred to a method of making decisions in government, without guaranteeing any specific good, like material equality. This confusion has led to a loss of clarity about what democracy truly represents.
Despite its flaws, democracy is essential as it provides a way to change leaders peacefully, serving as a protection against tyranny. It enables a system where coercion is only justified when it follows rules approved by the majority, thus preventing arbitrary power. However, there is a danger that democracy could mean that the majority can impose its will without limits, which can lead to oppression.
Indeed, while the majority's desire for something may reflect their intentions, it does not make their actions inherently just. People need to learn to control their desires and follow established rules of justice, which is a principle often overlooked in the context of majority rule. This belief that majority agreement automatically equates to justice fosters a dangerous notion that whatever the majority chooses is right, which can lead to unintended consequences and poor decision-making.
Moreover, there needs to be a distinction between the specific decisions of a majority and the broader principles of justice. Majorities should be held to a standard where their decisions reflect universal principles of justice, rather than just the prevailing desires. This means that the ruling body must be accountable to apply these principles consistently.
In summary, the idea that majority will inherently equates to just action is flawed. True justice requires a commitment to rules that apply to everyone, and democracy must be safeguarded to prevent the tyranny of the majority, ensuring that power is not misused.
There is a growing concern over the diminishing respect for democracy, a political ideal that has often been misused to mean various things, including equality. Democracy originally referred to a method of making decisions in government, without guaranteeing any specific good, like material equality. This confusion has led to a loss of clarity about what democracy truly represents.
Despite its flaws, democracy is essential as it provides a way to change leaders peacefully, serving as a protection against tyranny. It enables a system where coercion is only justified when it follows rules approved by the majority, thus preventing arbitrary power. However, there is a danger that democracy could mean that the majority can impose its will without limits, which can lead to oppression.
Indeed, while the majority's desire for something may reflect their intentions, it does not make their actions inherently just. People need to learn to control their desires and follow established rules of justice, which is a principle often overlooked in the context of majority rule. This belief that majority agreement automatically equates to justice fosters a dangerous notion that whatever the majority chooses is right, which can lead to unintended consequences and poor decision-making.
Moreover, there needs to be a distinction between the specific decisions of a majority and the broader principles of justice. Majorities should be held to a standard where their decisions reflect universal principles of justice, rather than just the prevailing desires. This means that the ruling body must be accountable to apply these principles consistently.
In summary, the idea that majority will inherently equates to just action is flawed. True justice requires a commitment to rules that apply to everyone, and democracy must be safeguarded to prevent the tyranny of the majority, ensuring that power is not misused.