Democracy, democratic rights, democratization, democratic theory…what do they all mean anyways?

The Greek origins of the word: demos means the common people, and kratos means a rule, a power. However, since we have deviated as a society so much from that governmental structure, what really is Democracy?

There are many definitions of democracy that are in circulation. More importantly, there are many theories about how to derive an accurate Democratic theory. The two main classifications are: minimalist or non-minimalist theory. A minimalist democracy is one that defines very little elements as to what constitutes a democracy. On the other hand, a non-minimalist theory is one that defines more criterion that is necessary for a functional democracy.

In my view, it is necessary for us to adopt a non-minimalist definition of democracy, since the conventions of democracy has evolved to be more complex. For example, the phrase  “civil rights and liberties” is inextricably linked to the implementation of democracy. Acknowledging that there are many definitions of democracy out there, I hereby attempt to draw out a relatively broad theory:

Democracy refers to a society that respects civil rights and liberties of its citizens, has universal suffrage, and honors the rule of law.

There are many arguments as thus:

Check out this very poignant article pointing to the core problem of Democracy:

http://generaloverflow.com/is-democracy-doomed-to-bankruptcy

Another argument is that:

When visiting the website, I found a rather radical objection:

“For example, Suffrage does not define nor does it produce democracy, for electoral voting takes place in totalitarian, fascist, communist, and National Socialist (NAZI), i.e., anti-democratic, states. Having been elected, there is nothing to stop government from imposing control of an upper house, reneging on pledges, nor from adopting any tyrannical measures it chooses.”

I’m not so sure that the United States is anti-democratic, and NAZI. However, the point on obsessing over universal suffrage is well taken. If universal suffrage is not conducted in a fair and just manner, with a honour of the rule of law, then it is meaningless. Hence the safeguards against despotism is in fact the honouring of those criterion that I listed in my definition.

I do acknowledge that democracy is a contested concept worldwide. However, these key elements do define the merits and purpose of the system itself.