Thoughts on Democracy

As the presidential election looms, my mind drifts towards the purpose of democracy.  Here is what I've got...

Democracy Pros:  In ancient times, most people were uneducated and relatively poor.  Only a select few had education and the power or authority to make decisions such as, who to go to war with, who to tax and how much, what are people's rights and who should receive them, etc.  As education has become not only a privilege, but a right in this country, the common man and woman now has the ability to be a participant in the political process.  That is the beauty of democracy.  It leaves no one out (except convicted criminals, sorry bro, you do the crime, you do the time).  We have come a long way in this country when it comes to democracy.  We used to place restrictions on people who could vote such as; owning land, the ability to read the English language, being over 21, and being a man.  Historically we have been afraid of giving too much power to the masses, but we have it, and it is a huge responsibility.  Vote, get involved, make a difference.  As the old saying goes, those who do not vote, have not right to be upset at the decisions that are made by those they didn't vote for one way or another.

Democracy Cons:  In my opinion, the biggest problem with democracy is that democracy does not always put the best man or woman for the job in office, only those who are willing.  Is there a better candidate than Obama or Romney, most likely, but the political process requires a lot of sacrifices and a lot of money (over $500 million spent by both presidential candidates thus far).  That narrows the field down to a few.  The second biggest problem is also the greatest strength.  It puts the power to choose into the hands of average people.  In the last presidential election only about 1/2 of registered voters cast their vote.  Also, as we figured out in 2000, one vote truly can make a difference.  Not enough people are taking this responsibility very seriously.  If we become a nation of people who don't care, then we deserve what we get.  Average people tend to vote not according to their well researched opinions, but based on how their favorite movie star or sports athlete tells them to.  It takes time, that is true, but better to take a little time and do it right the first time and get it right than take no time and do it wrong and suffer through 4 years.

Do I believe in democracy, absoloutly.  We've tried almost everything else and this is what we've come up with.  We have learned from history and installed  a system that is the most fair and equitable.  Get out and vote in November not only for president, but for everything that requires a vote.