Is democracy a western tool of hegemony?

Question

I mean, almost with missionary zeal the western developed world preach democracy in under-developed and developing countries. It often doesn't work there because of many factors -- illiteracy, domination of a corrupt wealthy class who simply manipulate electons, etc. Sometimes benign dctatorship is the answer or military rule is the answer, however reprehensible it may seem (due to western hype). What do you all think?

Answer 1

ideally, the introduction of democracy would be by example, not by the point of a gun. We should conduct ourselves as the highest role model of all that is good about Democracy, and let other countries choose whether to emulate us or not.

That's not to say that war doesn't have its place in world affairs. It clearly does. But probably not if the only justification is to "give" democracy to a people.

Answer 2

Democracy was invented during the Greek Empire and is an older form of government that Communism.
Democracy may not be perfect or as functional as the ones in first world countries, but this form of government is the only one which will always offer hope and the possibility of change.

Answer 3

to the ring wing elite, yes..and to Pat Robertson....As a Liberal, I wish people well and could support a regime in exile, but not nation building....we can't extend ourselves in a way that would threaten our own stability and preparedness...I think educated people of the middle class are what keeps this country strong, ignorance destroys it...in third world countries the amount of time a group would dedicate itself to democracy could be measured in weeks not years...there is no pure form of democracy in this world unless 10 people are stranded on an island somewhere and no lawyers are with them

Answer 4

A big reason why they are under developed is because they are not capitalistic. in some sort of democratic way.Than have a push for more schools before we gi9ve them true democracy.

Answer 5

I cannot think of a democracy in the western hemisphere, because none exist. what does exist is a constitutional republic.

Answer 6

While I disagree with you, I will admit that it seems hopelessly irresponsilbt and somewhat ridiculous to try to impose democracy without trying to recolve issues of poverty, education and class corruption.

Answer 7

if I had a hedge made of money I would trim it daily. No i don't think it is a tool, it became Bush's fall back argument when clear no WMD in Iraq.

Answer 8

I think you make some good points.