Does America Exercise Democracy?

Does America exercise democracy as a system of government? Collectively, I can answer that question with a "Yes!" However, since it was established as a republic, America has failed miserably in delivering a government "of the people, by the people and for the people." One has only to look at the atrocious treatment of women, Native Americans, slaves, Japanese citizens and today "all of the above." We can also add more segments of society to that list. Then . . . how does it deserve a "yes?"

What is Democracy?

Encyclopedia Britannica defines democracy as "a system of government in which laws, policies, leadership, and major undertakings of a state or other polity are directly or indirectly decided by the “people.” Using that definition, one can say that we have a democratic system of government. However, since inception, those who "decide" those laws, policies, and leadership, have and are in a state of perpetual transition. Historically, the definition of " the people" were "white men." Today, large segments of society are seeking to return to that definition of "the people." The question becomes "Can we "put the genie back into the bottle?"

A White Male Dominated Society

Women of today would answer that question with a resounding No! Even though the Majority Republican Supreme Court has moved to limit the freedoms of women, will it "fly?" Hmm-mm-m let's see. Women across America are mobilizing to not only keep the genie out of the "bottle but to break the bottle!" Blacks have been fighting for civil rights for over 250 years. That will continue. Today, all segments who feel their rights are violated in some way, are fighting back. Many believe the winning card is "the ballot box." Another positive sign is our youth. They have grown up in a country with great diversity and do not carry the burden of racism, sexism and prejudice on their shoulders. Attitudes are more inclusive, and actions follow.

America: A Place to Live

Is America a great place to live? I have lived in two (2) countries, traveled extensively, and can say there is no other place I would like to live other than America. Do we problems? Tons of them! Every country has problems but working together we can find solutions. Further, as long as humans live on the face of the earth and beyond, there will be problems. The nature of human beings is power, control, greed and selfishness. As long as these qualities plague the mind. . . there will be problems.

Consequently, reverting to the question "Does America Exercise Democracy," this writer can truthfully answer "Yes!"