Democracy Thoughts

When we were in Athens, I still believed that the United States was a democracy. However, as I write this now, I’m not so sure we are anymore. Back then, I could never have imagined America transforming into an oligarchy, theocracy, plutocracy, fascism, authoritarianism, corporatocracy, techno-feudalism, or any other undemocratic regime. Sadly, I now see all of these terms as fitting descriptions of America’s current state of affairs.

While I recognize that contemporary democracy is not practiced in its most idealized form, it’s important to acknowledge that even ancient Greece faced significant challenges and sometimes descended into tyranny. The word “democracy” literally means “people’s power,” and one of the most notable features of the ancient Greek system was the absence of political parties. I salivate at just the thought of a political system operating without the divisions created by opposing factions. However, as a woman, I also believe that discussions about democracy are inherently flawed because it’s difficult to appreciate the greatness of Athenian democracy when women and other marginalized groups were excluded from participation.

I also used to believe in the importance of voting, but I have recently started to question its value. I no longer trust politicians, primarily because the candidates I’ve voted for have done nothing to challenge the increasing power of the oligarchy, as they are part of the system themselves. It seems that every politician has accepted the reality that there is no longer any point in pretending. All the masks have been ripped off, and we can clearly see who has been hiding behind a democratic façade.

There are so many flaws with our governmental structure that I hardly know where to begin with my complaints. To start, I’ll express my utter disgust with how our politicians seem more like actors, and in some cases, they actually are, since there are no specific qualifications required to run for political office. Ideally, candidates should hold at least a degree in law or political science, but in reality, anyone can become the U.S. president simply by being a fucking television star. Ah, it’s not like the whole arrangement is disappointing anyway because it’s run like a mafia. The political landscape offers such a limited range of choices that the entire system might as well be called a political cartel.

Gerrymandering is another troubling issue because it manipulates voting districts to protect political power and effectively functions as a form of electoral fraud. There are also significant problems surrounding voter ID laws, felony disenfranchisement, voter roll purges, and the stupid Citizens United decision, which equates money with speech to amplify the voices of the wealthy.

The entire situation is exacerbated by the fact that a presidential candidate can win the election without securing the popular vote, thanks to the antiquated structure of the Electoral College. In recent years, two presidents have assumed office without winning the popular vote, which undermines the principle of accurate representation. Additionally, the Senate’s structure allocates each state two representatives, regardless of population size, which is an arrangement that disproportionately favors less populated states and allows a minority to maintain its hold on power. As a result, this system does not reflect true democracy, but instead acts as a geographical veto against the will of the majority.

However, it’s the Supreme Court, a judicial body composed of nine individuals appointed for life and accountable to no one, that ultimately decides how this country is run. These judges are often appointed by presidents who did not win the popular vote, and they frequently overturn laws in favor of regulations that align more with partisan interests than with public opinion. The final decisions rest with them, and they epitomize what a farce this system has become. Oh, and being governed by older people (gerontocracy) ensures that decisions are made by individuals whose mindsets are two or three generations behind those who will inherit this country’s future. And finally, the line between church and state has been slowly eroding into obscurity, but no one has the energy to care. The “zone has been flooded,” and we are all collectively drowning in this country’s spewing political waste.

In a democracy, many people, particularly those who are well-educated, tend to be divided into two camps: the optimists and the pessimists. This division likely stems from exposure to Plato’s teachings, which suggests that democracy, like all political systems, has inherent flaws and is ultimately destined to fail. Plato emphasized the unique weaknesses of democracy, particularly its dependence on an uneducated populace. In his work The Republic, he critiques democracy, arguing that it can lead to poor governance when the electorate lacks knowledge and is easily swayed by demagogues.

However, America’s political situation appears increasingly dire today. With the expansion of executive orders, the nature of power has undergone a significant shift. The checks and balances that were intended to govern our system are being increasingly undermined. Congress, once a powerful institution, has lost much of its influence and no longer provides effective oversight. Plato’s concerns about the vulnerabilities of democracy feel particularly relevant now. Democracy loses its significance when executive power can easily override legislative authority. American presidents are not elected to rule by mandate; they are selected through polling booths, not coronation ceremonies.

Knowledge and education are vital for a thriving democracy. However, since the 1970s, various political initiatives have sought to undermine these critical foundations. As a result, fewer Americans are receiving a classical education that emphasizes the moral, ethical, and intellectual values of democracy. This type of education empowers individuals to make informed decisions and develop sound judgments. I believe that the decline in teaching classical values has contributed to the perception that democracy has become an abstract concept rather than a tangible reality.

I used to feel optimistic with every new election cycle, but now I’m so disillusioned that I can’t even muster the energy to feel excited. I no longer believe the promises made by presidents who claim they will reform the system for our benefit, as I know they are merely priming us for yet another letdown. It’s the familiar cycle of rinse and repeat. The game is up, and we’re all left playing something that frankly isn’t very fun anymore.

My books Memory Road Trip (e-book or paperback) and Time Traveled (e-book or paperback) are both available!