Why is democracy always the most important concern?

Question

I have heard people express the concern that the Consititution isn't democratic enough, that they need more power, etc. Why is democracy, which is nothing more than a tool of wielding power, the most overridingly important principle? We were not founded as a democracy. We are a republic.

The overruling concern should be liberty, and ONLY after that is achieved, then democracy can be used as ONE OF MANY means to ensure the rights of minorities.

But the very definition of democracy is antithetical to liberty. Rule by majority. There is nothing in that definition that questions the legitimacy of that rule, or whether every application of democratic power is just.

A few days ago, a person answering the question of whether the constitution were democratic enough, said that it was not, because they did not have the power to tax the wealthy more than they already are. But that's precisely why democracy is always a bad idea. There will always be a small hated group of people

that are susceptible to abuse by a political majority. That answerer made that clear. If she had more political power, then she would not just make the rich pay for the 90% of the cost of government they already do pay now, she would go further and rape them of everything.

A system built not on the premise of liberty and freedom from the tyranny and hate-inspired political action and legislation of others, but built on the model of democracy - the idea of might makes right and the bigger mob prevails - will always end in violence. When ballots become proxies for bullets, then it is not long before real bullets begin to fly.

Democracy should not always be the primary concern, because it is an inherently unstable and violent political system.

Answer 1

This nation is a republic, but a democratic one. The founding fathers entrusted that people would care enough for their own well bieng that they would responsibly elect those who would act in everyone's best interests. But since government is essentially flawed, as all human nature is, there is the simple fact that people are often ignorant enough to either not know or care what their best interests are. This is the primary danger of democracy, that people may be moved into such a state of ignorance that they destroy what values and freedoms this nation is based on through the tool we thought was best to preserve them.
The constitution provides for more democracy than we even need. The importance of liberty and the right to do things in one's own interests, as long as it does not hurt the rights of others, is the most important thing it garauntees. Full democracy is not needed to preserve these rights.

Answer 2

They don't always mean direct and pure democracy, just any form of democratic government where the people are the final authority.

The US is a democracy. Just not a pure democracy. But the core principles are that the power is wielded by officials who are elected (even if indirectly) by the people.

And a democratic republic is even farther from a nation of liberty. Not only is it not direct might-makes-right majority rule, but in a republic the masses get together and choose someone to hand everyone's decision-making power over to.

Any form of government where there is a strong concentration of power is susceptible to abuse. The only way around that is either structuring the foundational rules (constitution) to prevent that abuse, or making sure the people remain actively involved in the process.

Answer 3

u . s . a . isn't a democracy, that's a democratic republic. it would want to be both an empire and a democracy together. it may also be both an empire and a democratic republic together... and that i might want to assert it truly is both, in the present day. people can argue about even if the u . s . a . is an empire in the present day. Technically it truly is not any longer. almost that's. Technically this statement is largely an opinion. All it is had to construct an empire is that those who vote help the governing of multiple countries with the help of one human being or one governmental structure. well known human being Wars is a sci-fi tale of how a democratic republic can become an empire. Technically, "worlds" and "platforms" are not from now on countries, yet it is an social gathering of how "empire" might want to be taken outdoors of it truly is strict definition. In thoughts, it truly is continuously concern, conflict, and want for safe practices that helps the transition.

Answer 4

They only act as though it does ! it is just a diversion !

Under proper democracy across the planet, USA and other "Big-Boys" , would not remain super powers .....

Democracy is power in the hands of people, it takes power away from leaders ( rulers!), and gives it back to people, and that is why it will never be implemented

Be careful when you talk about "Liberty", that way you become a "Liberal", and thanx to Republican PR efforts, we all know what the "common" interpretation of "Liberal" is, in USA today !

Answer 5

In a healthy democratic society, liberty is balanced with constitutional powers. If one reaches for more power than it should have- like this administration- you have an imbalance that could be fatal to this republic.

Maybe you will get a fuller answer after Ive slept.

Answer 6

Even bigger countries are trying to be a democratic countries .Each and every one will have fundamental rights and you are a free person with full fledged freedom to you .

Answer 7

As far as I am concern, it is a battle between the Demons and the Aristocracy!

Answer 8

"....four score and seven years ago, our fathers brought forth on this continent a new nation CONCEIVED IN LIBERTY AND DEDICATED TO THE PROPOSITION THAT ALL MEN ARE CREATED EQUAL." ~ Lincoln

It is in our blood.

Answer 9

I Like being ustable and violent, keeps people guessing about you :)