I agree.
The vocal minority does seem to overwhelm the results of decision making.
Navigation
Install the app
How to install the app on iOS
Follow along with the video below to see how to install our site as a web app on your home screen.
Note: This feature may not be available in some browsers.
More options
Style variation
You are using an out of date browser. It may not display this or other websites correctly.
You should upgrade or use an alternative browser.
You should upgrade or use an alternative browser.
“Referendum democracy” – how it can work
- Context: Other
- Thread starter Spathi
- Start date
Click For Summary
SUMMARY
The discussion centers on the concept of "democracy 2.0," which proposes a system of frequent referendums to engage citizens in political decision-making. The participants argue that while referendums can empower the populace, they also risk manipulation and demagogy, as evidenced by historical examples like Nazi Germany. The conversation highlights the challenges of ensuring an informed electorate, pointing out that elite monopolies on information hinder true democratic participation. Ultimately, the participants conclude that frequent referendums may not solve the underlying issues of citizen enlightenment and could exacerbate existing vulnerabilities in democratic systems.
PREREQUISITES- Understanding of representative democracy and its limitations
- Familiarity with the concept of referendums and their implications
- Knowledge of historical examples of democratic manipulation, such as Nazi Germany
- Awareness of the role of information access in political engagement
- Research the impact of frequent referendums on political engagement and public opinion
- Explore case studies of referendums in Switzerland and their outcomes
- Investigate the relationship between information access and voter decision-making
- Examine historical instances of demagogy in democratic systems
Political scientists, civic educators, policymakers, and anyone interested in the dynamics of modern democracy and citizen engagement.
The vocal minority does seem to overwhelm the results of decision making.
The vocal minority does seem to overwhelm the results of decision making.
I'd replace the word "vocal" with "voting", for the US.
According to Google, the average US mid-term (ie non-presidential) election turnout is 48%. The primary election turnout is more difficult to paint with a single number, but the average is estimated to be around 20%.
We in the US have the government we deserve, from the participation perspective.
Liberal Democracy Values
- Free and Fair Elections
- Rule of Law
- Separation of Powers & Checks and Balances
- Protection of Civil Liberties and Human Rights
- Pluralism & Political Competition
- Independent Media & Free Press
- Open Civil Society
Community Values
- Civility
- Productivity
- Good Faith Debate
- Evidence Based Debate
- Transparency
- Integrity
Community Motto
"It is the responsibility of intellectuals to speak the truth and expose lies." - Noam Chomsky