Forms of Government: Democracy

A: (i)

Democratic rule is often considered the best form of government in modern society. This type of government allows for the people to rule. Allowing the people to rule can be considered a good, as well as a bad idea. There are some major flaws or problems when dealing with democratic rule. Some of those problems are tyranny of majority, corruption of leaders and lastly violation of property rights. Though of these the most important flaw in democracy is mob rule.

Mob rule or ochlocracy states rule of the government either by the mass of people or through intimidation. Essentially the government is ruled by the majority. That means that if 51 percent of the citizens vote for a decision, the other 49 percent voice will not be heard. The tyranny of majority has a huge impact on mob rule. The tyranny of majority states that through legislation the majority can treat a minority differently. Two very good examples of this act would be slavery in America during the 1700's & 1800's, as well as, segregation of school prior to the 1960s. For instance 51 percent can take away the rights of 49 percent of a states citizens. This means that not everyone is equal, and not everyone voice can be heard. Mob rule presents the idea that either you vote with the masses or vote against the masses. One can argue that mob rule and tyranny of the majority are both closely related, and are very much active in present day democracies. For instance laws banning gay marriage could be considered a tyranny of the majority. So it is clear that this notion has not faded away from politics.

A: (ii)

The idea of mob rule or tyranny of the majority can be contained by democratic rule. There must be an establishment of mechanisms or laws in order to pre...

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...ty of its contributions to it. Overall there are some flaws in Mill's idea of actions that only affect oneself.

Part C: (I)

Mill's argument against democratic rule, and the things it poses to liberty. Democracies have flaws o possible tyranny of majority. According to Locke majority rule allows people to come together under a general consensus, meaning that everyone follows their idea, but will agree with an decision. It is clear that not everyone has the same opinions, and not everyone is going to have the same interest. Therefore sometimes people have to vote for something that they do not necessarily want. When it comes to the voting processes, the tyranny of the majority is at its largest. As if one can control the majority, meaning get them to vote for the candidates you want, then you can control everyone as those candidates can pass laws that benefit you.