Strange Legacy

Discussion: Is Democracy Good or Bad?

Here’s an interesting topic for discussion: “Is democracy good or bad?”

“It has been said that democracy is the worst form of government…” These were the words of Winston Churchill after losing his reelection bid in 1945 for Prime Minister of Britain. Of course, he ended this quote by saying, “…except all those other forms that have been tried from time to time.” I’ve reflected on this rather bitter quotation as I’ve considered the many problems we’ve recently been experiencing here in the United States. It’s also troubling to watch the ascendance of other, non-democratic nations such as China and even Russia (which has begun centralizing power at the expense of democratic principles).

Consider the following weaknesses of our democracy here in the United States:

• While many politicians are smart, knowledgeable people others have little to no formal education concerning the many areas over which they govern (i.e. economics, foreign policy, military strategy, etc.).
• Political infighting often delays important and necessary legislation from becoming law. Democracy can be very slow to confront real problems and serious issues.
• In order to pass an important bill, politicians have to make deals with one another and load the bill up with so much pork and so many earmarks that its value is largely offset by garbage.
• Politicians win elections by promising special favors to their constituents, regardless of whether such measure will serve the greater good of the country as a whole.

These are just a few of the many sins committed by democratic governments. It seems to me that the best forms of government would involve a wise monarch or benevolent dictator; someone with extensive training in the various areas of government. Such leaders would be surrounded by wise councilors, but able to take executive action and do the things which are most essential for the prosperity of their people. Obviously the problem with such forms of government is the horrific consequence of having an unwise monarch, or less-than-benevolent dictator; at least democracy gives us the ability to quickly dispose of leaders who are doing a lousy job. Yet, is that all democracy really is? Is its true purpose to avoid catastrophe, rather than promote prosperity?

As we consider the implications of taking democracy to the world, what sort of questions should we be asking ourselves? Is democracy always the best solution – specifically for nations that have lived under the oppressive heal of dictatorship for an extended period of time? This is obviously a controversial topic, and I’m very interested to hear your thoughts on this issue. Please take a moment to post a comment and share your ideas.