Pinthouse Pizza
Democracy Is Created by the People
RECEIVED Sat., Aug. 25, 2007
Dear Editor,
Re: “Primer on Political Culture” [“Postmarks,” Aug. 24]: I'm certain that this is not the sort of thing that Brad Will believes or would advocate, and though I'm not saying your comments are wrong for that, it seems important to keep in mind the motivations of the man who actually took the bullet [“The Death of Brad Will,” News, Aug. 10]. He knew he was risking his life, and he did so to further human rights and democracy in general, regardless of where borders happen to fall or which government is pretending to define what freedom means.
There's a very real inconsistency in assuming some sort of American exceptionalism regarding democracy and individual rights. Democracy isn't something granted by benign leaders motivated by civic compassion. It is created by people and animated by the recognition that all people deserve basic dignity and respect as people, as stewards of creation, as beings possessed of reason and reverence. That the power of understanding and fellowship is open and available to all people at all times, should they choose or be allowed to express it. This is the fundament of democracy; our political institutions simply inhibit or encourage its expression.
Regardless of the particular development of a government or cultural organs, the foundation of democracy lies in all people, everywhere, and has for all time. The only real political question is how will we create and reinforce institutions that build on this foundation rather than repress, ignore, or deaden it.
All people are "fit" for democracy, and the only training they require is the chance to use it in their communities.
Re: “Primer on Political Culture” [“Postmarks,” Aug. 24]: I'm certain that this is not the sort of thing that Brad Will believes or would advocate, and though I'm not saying your comments are wrong for that, it seems important to keep in mind the motivations of the man who actually took the bullet [“The Death of Brad Will,” News, Aug. 10]. He knew he was risking his life, and he did so to further human rights and democracy in general, regardless of where borders happen to fall or which government is pretending to define what freedom means.
There's a very real inconsistency in assuming some sort of American exceptionalism regarding democracy and individual rights. Democracy isn't something granted by benign leaders motivated by civic compassion. It is created by people and animated by the recognition that all people deserve basic dignity and respect as people, as stewards of creation, as beings possessed of reason and reverence. That the power of understanding and fellowship is open and available to all people at all times, should they choose or be allowed to express it. This is the fundament of democracy; our political institutions simply inhibit or encourage its expression.
Regardless of the particular development of a government or cultural organs, the foundation of democracy lies in all people, everywhere, and has for all time. The only real political question is how will we create and reinforce institutions that build on this foundation rather than repress, ignore, or deaden it.
All people are "fit" for democracy, and the only training they require is the chance to use it in their communities.
Donald Jackson