Democracy

Introduction

— Most common form of government in the world but do we know how it functions?

— Often seen in an ‘West vs East’ comparison, or a hangover from the Cold War.

— The difference between a democratic republic and a democracy.

— Contrast between perceived liberties in western democracies and perceived security in autocracies.

Democracy and Public Speaking

Most of the speeches about democracy in public speaking lament ‘tone deaf’ politicians - look for other avenues to engage with.

A prime example: an analysis of the US democracy should aim to go beyond ‘regretting Trump’ and instead analysing structural elements of the system.

It’s worthwhile looking at the democratic society as well as just the government. There are a host of rights that are inherent with citizenship in a democracy — perhaps investigate the tension between the granting and taking away of these rights.

It’s also worth evaluating the role of citizen apathy, disengagement and blaming in the process — what are the responsibilities of people and governments?

Democracy and Debating

Generally speaking, there are two types of ‘democracy debates’:

— A debate that asks teams to examine democracy as a force in the world

This includes questions of aiding non-democratic countries, promoting regime change and understanding international relationship

— A debate that asks teams to examine democracy in practice

This includes questions about the makeup and function of parliament, the process of elections and politicians themselves, and the extent of the right to vote (age and gerrymandering)

Analysis of Type 1 - That we should only hold sporting events in democratic countries

Analysis of Type 2 - That the senate should be chosen in a radom lottery

Debating, more or less, agrees that democracy is the most effective form of government in terms of trade offs for the majority

Democracy and Critical Thinking

Establishing understanding of particular democratic rights and responsibilities is important as a starting place for discussion.

Comparative systems to democracy (such as technocracies) are interesting for students to consider — its not just a democracy/anarchy dichotomy. Step outside and bring perspective to these things.

Functioning democracies aren’t just about being heard, they are about action being taken — understanding that democracy is a ‘warts and all’ system is important.

Aristotle's criticisms of democracy can provide a useful historical lens — if Aristotle can critique these things, so can your class!

Takeaways

— Criticisms of democracy are interesting and completely permissible

— Going beyond the token ‘declaration of human rights’ analysis is important

— Analysing successful alternative forms of government can be interesting and thought provoking