Article

2004-01-14

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Posted by tipper 2004-01-14 9:36:04 AM|| || Front Page|| [3 views since 2007-05-07] Top

#1 Cut to the chase...

A modern democracy is depedent upon a modern Republic Of Laws, where the rights of the individual, not groups nor government, are (supposedly, mainly when the Dems are out of power) held as the highest good.

Remember - the US is not a Democracy, it is, as Ben Franklin said "A Republic, if we can keep it".

Posted by OldSpook 2004-1-14 3:39:31 PM|| 2004-1-14 3:39:31 PM|| Front Page Top

#2 Right. Regular folks in the countries described above would prefer their countries political, economic, and social systems based on the rule of law. Today. Democracy in the elective/parliamentary system can come later. The way Hong Kong was run by the Brits for several generations is a good example. No democracy in the pure sense there, but individuals and businesses there knew that they could take grievances before an independent judiciary, at least. If only we could see development in countries like Badistan similar to that of colonial Hong Kong, I think the majority of citizens would be satisfied.

Posted by Michael 2004-1-14 3:44:15 PM|| 2004-1-14 3:44:15 PM|| Front Page Top

#3 Wolfowitz is often a proponent of encouraging democracy in countries that are ruled by despots. The Philipines islands under Marcos are an example of a country that Wolfowotz defines as ready for democracy.

Zimbabwe and the current domino effect going on in South America are examples of how a democratization policy can run amok. Chaos often results when democracy is implemented in societies that lack underlying cultural respect for property rights. In these countries the populus will tend to vote into office whichever candidates espouse the most socialist redistribution of property. Over time the result is that capital flees these countries, an effect which increases poverty in locations that are often richer in resources than more prosperous nations. Corruption at all levels accelerates disaster by siphoning off any positive results of the remaining economic activity. This negative economic deevolution is like watching a slow-motion train wreck.

Posted by Super Hose 2004-1-14 9:42:05 PM|| 2004-1-14 9:42:05 PM|| Front Page Top

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