Contemporary Debates in Political Philosophy - 2009 - Christiano - Democracy Instrumental vs Non‐Instrumental Value

Democracy: Instrumental vs. Non-Instrumental Value

Understanding Democracy

Democracy is often perceived solely as a set of governing practices with an instrumental value, aimed at satisfying individual preferences akin to market mechanisms. Voting serves as a primary democratic mechanism for citizens to express their preferences, ensuring the government acts to satisfy these desires. While voting holds instrumental value in achieving collective decisions, its importance extends beyond mere functionality. Just as shopping can hold enjoyment beyond its practical purpose of acquiring goods, democratic participation can offer intrinsic enjoyment and significance to individuals apart from just policy outcomes. However, the non-instrumental value of democratic participation hinges on its instrumental success—if democracy fails to meet citizens’ desires, its intrinsic value would diminish.

Palpable Preference for Self-Governance

Citizens prefer democracy even if a dictatorship promises to fulfill their wants, as underscored by the example of Singapore's government, which claims to satisfy its citizens. This preference demonstrates the non-instrumental value of democratic participation as a foundational aspect of their way of life.

Justifying Democracy

The democratic regime reflects the principle of justice, where citizens possess equal standing to voice their interests and engage in decisions affecting them, asserting the moral rightness of democratic governance. Historical figures like John Stuart Mill and John Dewey viewed democracy not just as a political system but as a culture promoting equality, mutual respect, and cooperation among citizens. Democracy can be framed in three ways: as a membership organization promoting universal and equal citizenship, as a mode of government focusing on discussion among equals, and as a cultural context where citizens engage collaboratively and freely. Effective democratic governance is only possible when a democratic culture supports it.

Membership Organization and Equal Citizenship

In a democratic society, all individuals subjected to governmental laws should hold citizenship rights, enabling participation in political and civil discussions. A democratic society cannot sustain a permanent class of outsiders without compromising its values, as noted by theorists like Brubaker and Walzer. Equality signifies equal authority among individuals to claim rights and influence governance; thus, the slogan "One person, one vote" extends beyond voting to broader egalitarian principles.

Modes of Government: Deliberative vs. Majority Rule

Majority rule simplifies democracy to preference aggregation, often overlooking the intrinsic importance of individual rights. Deliberative democracy, on the other hand, engages citizens from diverse backgrounds in discussions to determine collective interest and governance, fostering inclusivity and respect for minority rights.

Engaging Citizens in Democracy

Deliberation facilitates the transformation of public preferences into collective decisions, ensuring comprehensive representation of varied interests. Effective democracy necessitates established platforms for intelligent dialogue and consensus-building among citizens.

Cultural Values of Democracy

Beyond formal institutions, democracy thrives in a vibrant civil society, allowing citizens to learn from one another collectively. Structures that promote spontaneous citizen collaboration are crucial for nurturing democratic culture and engagement. Democratic living realizes core values such as mutual respect, protection against oppression, cultivation of sympathy, and educational benefits through collective participation. Therefore, rather than framing democracy in terms of outcomes alone, the democratic process itself yields intrinsic goods tied to mutual respect and community engagement.

Equality of Social Relations

Democratic equality asserts that individuals are equal participants, fostering mutual respect that results in better governance practices. Engaging in democratic processes combats hierarchies and empowers all, eliminating disdain associated with non-democratic structures.

Democracy: Beyond Simple Instrumentalism

Citizens must actively engage in governance to express their collective autonomy, with genuine democratic actions reflecting distinct needs and mutual goals. The intrinsic and instrumental values in democratic engagement maintain a dynamic between the pursuit of collective goals through active participation, transcending mere outcomes. Hence, voting should be viewed as more than a procedural action; it embodies ongoing societal values like learning and collaboration.

Conclusion: Living as a Democratic Community

In conclusion, democracy should not be viewed solely through the lens of outcomes but as an integral mode of existence that fosters community, mutual respect, and collaborative learning. Political practices cannot be entirely justified apart from the communal relationships they foster.