Democracy

What is the common good?

The ideal that society should aim for: “the greatest good for the greatest number.”

How does democracy relate to the common good?

Democracy seeks to serve the common good, but interpretations vary.

Key themes of the common good?

• Virtuous and noble life

• Political equality: members commit to living together as a unity

• Egalitarian societies emerge when ideas of the common good are embraced

Locke’s view?

Create better political conditions to achieve personal goals.

Marx’s view?

Elites manipulate the idea of the common good for selfish purposes, disguising personal gain as collective benefit.

What is the core definition of democracy?

Institutions built around competitive elections, allowing all adults to choose/remove leaders; emphasizes equality and political participation.

What is the modern.working definition of democracy?

Political power exercised directly or indirectly through participation, competition, and liberty; open to multiple interpretations.

What does the six nations model show?

Democracy is not strictly European; Indigenous governance illustrates consultative, participatory democracy.

Features of the Great Law of Peace?

• Allowed Mohawk, Oneida, Onondaga, Cayuga, Seneca, and Tuscarora to coexist 200+ years

• Leadership measured by generosity, not hoarding

• Leaders could be removed if duties were unmet

• Checks and balances emphasized; community accountability crucial

What is the historical misrepresentation of the six nations model?

Indigenous democratic practices often erased/misrepresented (e.g., women’s suffrage, recall mechanisms).

How did democracy emerge in Europe?

Church and monarchies (hereditary leadership) clashed → common people gained rights.

Role of social constructs?

Social norms developed between city and state; rule of law applied equally.

What is Stuart Mill’s Harm Principle?

Freedom of speech allowed but cannot harm others or infringe on others’ freedom.

What is the key idea of Stuart Mill?

He recognizes there are limits to freedom in a democratic society.

How does economic inequality affect democracy?

Undermines true participation; favors elites over citizens.

What is Karl Marx’s critique on democracy?

Real power lies in controlling means of production, not just political institutions.

What are the consequences of unchecked capitalism?

Leads to economic inequality.

What are the role of unions?

Provide checks and balances against economic power.

What is radical democracy?

Citizen involvement outside formal structures to challenge lawmaking or the rule of law

Risk of radical democracy?

If elected leaders remove checks and balances, democracy itself can be compromised.

What is the global trend regarding declining democracy?

Declining support for democratic institutions.

How do democracies undermine themselves abroad?

May support dictatorships while preaching democracy at home → hypocrisy weakens principles.

Origins of political left/right?

French Revolution:

• Left = people

• Right = monarchy/elite

What are the key points of the left and right?

• Radical ideas exist on both sides

• Commitment to ideas varies

• Meta-narratives: Left → deregulation, maximize profit; Right → regulation, protect citizens

• Parties often enforce rigid adherence (“all or nothing”)

Summary of Democracy

Democracy is government by the people, aiming for the common good, balancing freedom, equality, and accountability. It is shaped by historical context, economic forces, and citizen participation, with radical and mainstream interpretations coexisting.