Can Democracy Be Lost in a Modern Society?

Democracy, the political system that ensures the people's right to power and participation, has been a cornerstone of modern governance for over two centuries. However, even as it has brought unprecedented progress and prosperity, it faces significant challenges that may threaten its survival. In this article, we explore whether democracy can ever be lost, examining historical perspectives, current debates, and future possibilities.

Historical Insights and Perceptions

Toqueville's Observations - American political scholar Alexis de Toqueville had a profound warning about democracy's fragility. He noted in the 1830s that once politicians mastered the tools of propaganda, such as the printing press and debt manipulation, corrupting the democratic system became almost inevitable. With these tools, politicians can sway public opinion, bribe interest groups, and rely on oligarchs to fund their campaigns. This reliance on these tools often leads to a concentration of power and control over the producers, rendering democracy meaningless.

In such a scenario, democracy degenerates into an oligarchic or crony capitalist system, where a select few wield significant influence and power. The producers, often ignorant and gullible, vote for these elites without truly understanding the impact of their choices. As a result, the two extremes - oligarchs and the masses - come together in a common interest to protect their share of power, making it impossible to dislodge one from the other.

India's Unwavering Democracy

India's Struggle and Success - In stark contrast, India stands as a testament to the resilience of democracy. Despite the challenges and failures of its government, the spirit of democracy remains alive and vibrant. This is due to the sacrifices of great freedom fighters who fought tirelessly for India's independence and the establishment of a democratic framework. Their invaluable efforts have provided a strong foundation for democratic governance in the country.

As Indians, it is our responsibility to uphold and nurture this legacy. We must ensure that no dictatorial politician overtakes the democratic process and distorts its principles. By being vigilant and knowledgeable, we can preserve and strengthen our democratic institutions for future generations.

Current Debates and Future Possibilities

The question of whether democracy can be lost remains a matter of debate among political scientists. Some argue that it is possible under certain circumstances, pointing to historical examples where democratic institutions were dissolved or manipulated. However, others believe that democracy is a flexible system that can adapt to various challenges.

A key issue is the representation within democratic systems. One common argument is that democracy may limp along due to insufficient representation, particularly in legislative bodies like the House of Representatives. The current size of the House is 435 members, which may not be sufficient to adequately represent the diverse population. An expansion to a larger membership, around 1,740, could potentially improve the democratic process.

Another suggestion is for individual representatives to conduct their legislative duties from their districts. This approach would allow for more localized and representative decision-making, enhancing the democratic process.

Conclusion

While democracy faces challenges and potential threats, it is ultimately up to the collective actions of the people to preserve and strengthen it. By learning from historical insights, recognizing the importance of foundational sacrifices, and adapting our democratic systems to better represent the populace, we can ensure that democracy remains a robust and enduring form of governance.