Misunderstanding Democracy

I, myself, have used many descriptions of our nation. A democratic republic, a constitutional republic, a democracy of law, a representive democracy, etc. It was, and is, a blend of all they could find good and just. It is, or was, certainly unique.

John Adams wrote,

"Of republics there is an inexhaustible variety, because the possible combinations of the powers of society are capable of inumerable variations."
--Thoughts On Government 1776

Adams, again, on another thought...

"Can you account for the apathy, the antipathy of this nation to their own history? Is there not a repugnance to the thought of looking back? While thousands of frivolous novels are read with eagerness and got by heart, the history of our own native country is not only neglected, but is despised and abhorred."
--Aug. 31, 1813 to Thomas McKean

Even then, men were too comfortable in their freedoms.

Glenn

To be more on topic, the founders spent more than 60 days contemplating the methods for choosing the federal officials. Would the state legislatures appoint them, elect them? Would the people elect some, and the state appoint the rest, would the states be abolished and remade to achieve equal representation? On and on. They were very fortunate to have James Madison working with them. He opposed many absurd ideas, politely pointing them in other directions.

I thought you would enjoy this. And I can see from the responses at least you found it interesting.


My main point was that the system we use to select leaders does not arise form some simplistic faith int he majority always being right, but as a means to allow for peaceful transition of government. Obviously they had other thoughts in mind, especially given the original faith in federalism.

But it seems many on the right and left often mistake the concepts behind our government and think solely in terms of the most simplistic concepts.

Well, glad I amused you. When I saw this I figured you would enjoy it.

I almost always enjoy your posts. Nine of ten, I would say intrigue me no end. Sometimes I just learn and have nothing to offer in comment.

Just keep 'em comin'.

Glenn

If I kept writing when I was getting no comments and had maybe 9 hits a day, you can count on it. If being my own best reader didn't discourage me, I certainly won't stop when I have a few real readers.

(Then again, I also do nothing to promote my site, so it is my own fault no one reads me. If I went on the boards and made a scene like many others, I am sure I could have ten times the readers.)