democracy! or democracy?

Democracy is an ambiguous term. As a theory it is often far different on paper than reality. As a catch-phrase it is regularly adopted by politicians to gain legitimacy. As a political system, it can often mean multiple things for multiple people depending on context and understanding of the word. In these ways, it proves difficult to provide a clear and universally accepted definition of what democracy is.

For myself, it is crucial that a democracy include these things: free and fair elections and accompanying participatory involvement in the election process, civil liberties and political freedom, the separation of military and state, judicial independence and rule of law, protection of human rights, transparency, checks and balances on political power, and popular support. It is equal parts political rights, civil rights, and checks and balances.

I would argue that because political systems are not static, but, rather constantly changing, a constitutional and institutional framework is also necessary to ensure that these processes remain honest and consistent in nature. In the case of countries with strong “democracies” or a relatively high level of democratic quality, it is evident that they fulfill all of these criteria within reason. Similarly, not all democracies are the same and their quality is dependent on unique historical and cultural circumstances that effect how the political process is run. In the case of Denmark, with a relatively small population, and among the highest levels of democratic quality, it is evident that the level of efficiency and institutional strength may not be as effective should say India adopt a similar framework for its own democracy.

Democracies are not perfect, rather they are imperfect and flawed. Often they are defined by competition between elite and lobby-groups, but, the ability of civil society to act as a counter-balance alongside the rule of law may be seen as a means of limiting the consolidation of absolute power and therefore, keeping politicians honest. Not all corrupt politicians are caught, but, some are and this is the best we can do.

This definition is not perfect, but, it allows a strong foundation to build on when examining democracy and should other countries be placed in this framework, and I would argue that a gradated approach is the most beneficial, it will give us a good idea of democratic quality.