From time to time we hear that the USA is a shining example of how a
democracy should be and shows how democracy is indeed the best form of
government. However, can we really consider USA as a true democracy?
Firstly, it might be important to consider that nowhere in
the Declaration of Independence has the word democracy been mentioned. What
this shows is that the founding fathers of America did not intend for it to
progress as a democracy. So, then, can we say that the Declaration of
Independence is a thing of the past and now America indeed functions as a true
democracy? If we try to understand the exact definition of a democracy, the law
in a democratic state is the opinion of the majority population. In America
however, the ultimate source of law is the constitution, implying that America
is rather a republic.
Furthermore, although the people of America do enjoy several
features of a democratic state, such as the right to vote and freedom of
speech, at the end of the day power lies mostly in the hands of few powerful,
influential people or groups. Policymaking is largely controlled by few
powerful personalities, regardless of whom the people vote for and regardless
of the policies that the majority favors.
Lincoln said “government of the people, by the people, and
for the people” regarding democracy. The first two clauses of what he said do
to an extent hold in the USA. However, the third clause is often violated, as
under the name of national security or other reasons, the government often
implements policies against the interests of the majority people.
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