DEMOCRATIC THEORIES

Democratic Theories and Political Participation

Democratic Theories and Political Participation

Introduction

The nation-state and the rise of a business-oriented middle class affected not only the politics of this era but also the writings of various political philosophers. The rule of law is now being articulated as the basis for civil order and community. It is also the basis for ensuring the political rights of the individual. This paper compares & contrasts the differing arguments in the key democratic theories with regard to the level & desirability of political participation by the citizenry.

Discussion

The conservative fear of the liberal state is that the liberal state may - in the name of meeting its objectives - grow in power to such an extent that the state ends up ultimately opposed to its commitment to secure the rights of each person. The fact of life is that modern political economy and modern politics are designed to make the state the commander. The reason for this situation is the powerful influence of an economy that emphasizes satisfying the public's desires along with a state that is committed to sustaining this kind of economic enterprise. Liberals and conservatives do share a common concern. Both advocate sources of power outside of government to balance government and to prevent government from becoming too powerful. (www.powerinquiry.org)



I. Immanuel Kant

A civil society for Immanuel Kant is a rule of law that seeks to achieve equal freedom for each individual. Kant argued for public participation to discuss important questions that permitted the citizen to expand his knowledge. He defined this as public reason.

To achieve this Kant argued that the citizen:

-be open to the views of others

-must be able to free themselves from confidence on other's opinions

-think constantly

Kant's moral philosophy was to live by a categorical imperative which required each person to be treated as an ends and not solely as a means. (Harrop 2010)

II. John Rawls

John Rawls saw justice defined in terms of fairness. (Harrop 2010) The two concerns Rawls sought to address where:

1. The integration of the disenfranchised into the mainstream life of society

2. The maintenance of social stability in the face of competing views of religion, gender, sexuality, and culture

From Rawls' perspective, basic rights include the right to vote, the right of participation in politics, freedom of conscience, thought and association, and coverage by the rule of law. There must be a commitment to civility as well as ...