How can democracy threaten liberty?

Question

I have to write a paper on this topic; so far I've cited examples where minority groups have had their liberties curtailed under a democratic system. Can you help me think of anything else?

Answer 1

You are on the right path...

In a complete direct democracy, the majority vote always rules. This is ok as long as there are laws that govern fairness in order to balance the rights of the minorities. In our country, we have the Constitution to balance this.

Imagine what it would be like if without those protections.... slavery would still exist, women probably would still not be able to vote, etc... these protections are there because the bottom line is that ppl with the 'power' don't like to share that power.

Answer 2

In some cases the power of the majority may ignore the rights of the minority. Consider the detention of Japanese Americans during World War I. Also consider the refusal of many states to give black Americans their civil rights until the Federal government enacted laws to deal with this situation.

Answer 3

The tyrrany of the majority. The Japanese internment is a good example. Also, think about the people who argue that this is a Christian nation, and that Christian prayers should be allowed in school, etc. The Constitution protects the rights of the minority in this instance.

Answer 4

You've got it.. a true democracy is mob rule... unless you believe that mankind is basically just and not prone to selfish self interest.

Note: the Japanese Internment, while tragic, was not an example of true democracy in action... the people *did not* vote on it... it was ordered by President Rosevelt

Answer 5

Mandatory seat belt and helmet laws curtail liberty.

Answer 6

Look at the United States and Iraq