Democratic Ideals Research Articles

Introduction: racism doesn’t care about democracy either

ABSTRACT As the US approaches an intense inflection point in this grand experiment with democratic ideals, a pinched nerve in the form of a presidential election, this second special anniversary forum considers what resources (I almost said weapons) lay undiscovered or undervalued with which we may forge a future. Fortunately, there are gems – brilliant in the proper light – available for use; from the Global South to the US South, this forum imagines more than geographic places, but rather forms of care and powerful Black feminist community-building and critique of the retrenchment of multiple forms of racialized domination.

Development and Dilemmas of Mass Democratic Identity Construction in the Context of the Myanmar Coup: An Analysis of Political Narratives

This study examines the process of mass democratic identity construction in Myanmar and delineates the distinct characteristics of the government's political narratives during the period of Myanmar's democratic reform. The research finds that Myanmar managed to establish a democratic identity that continues to exhibit resilience in the aftermath of the coup. This resilience, observed at the level of political narratives, can be attributed to the transcultural features of ideological construction and the prominent influence of Buddhism, both well-suited to Myanmar's deep-seated social and religious foundations. However, following the coup, the loss of agency by the original narrative source, combined with the long-standing issues within Burmese society, has resulted in several political dilemmas hampering the development of democratic consciousness. These dilemmas are characterized by an immature democratic political culture, underdeveloped civil society, and frequent ethnic conflicts. The underlying reasons for these challenges can be traced back to the limitations of democratic political culture during Myanmar's democratic reform period and the absence of historical and cultural foundations in the country's democratic political system, which may constrain the long-term development of democratic consciousness following changes in the power structure.

From Openness to Inclusion: Toward a Democratic Approach to Migration Policy

Many theorists argue that justice in international migration requires states to maximize the openness of their borders, even when that can only be done by denying full political membership to some migrants. In contrast, this article contends that democratic ideals recommend inclusion as the guiding principle of migration policy, since full membership for all the state’s residents is the only way to preserve democratic self-rule, whereas the justice- and freedom-related goals associated with openness can be promoted via other means. I define full inclusion as involving not only formal rights, but also solidarity. Against accounts that define solidarity in terms of shared identity (i.e., a specific commonality), I argue that democratic solidarity requires intersubjective “identification” among members of the demos, oriented toward their shared future. This account suggests how migration policy might advance the practical goal of more open borders, along with other moral goals associated with calls for greater openness, without sacrificing important democratic ideals.

Pınar BEDİRHANOGLU, Çağlar DÖLEK, Funda HÜLAGÜ and Özlem KAYGUSUZ (Eds.), Turkey’s New State in the Making: Transformations in Legality, Economy, and Coercion (London, Bloomsbury Publishing, 2020)

Turkey’s political history has seen recurring shifts between democratic ideals and authoritarian tendencies, notably during the two decades of the Justice and Development Party’s (Adalet ve Kalkınma Partisi, AKP) rule. This transition marked a departure from a relatively democratic façade that emerged in response to the European Union (EU) accession process towards a more authoritarian regime characterized by increased government control and curtailment of civil liberties. It is a shift accentuated after the 2013 Gezi protests which culminated in a significant regime change in 2018. This transformation was marked by President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan’s consolidation of power through constitutional amendments, leading to the transition from a parliamentary democracy to a presidential system. To comprehend this transformation, it is imperative to examine the interplay between economic dynamics and the state within the neo-liberal capitalist system, aligning with Poulantzas’ observations on global trends. It can be argued that the accumulation and state crises, exacerbated by the 2008 global economic crisis, have contributed to Turkey’s authoritarian shift in parallel with global developments.

A democratic curriculum for the challenges of post-truth

Post-truth has been widely applied in the wake of COVID-19, to stipulate causes for growing economic and political inequalities, misinformation in digital spaces and disillusionment with political institutions and notions of common/public good, to name a few. To address these concerns, this article constitutes a series of suggestions for how educators might engage with curricula that are embedded with democratic ideals. The first section will provide a brief survey of how various incarnations of the national curricula in Australia have been used as a vehicle for both envisaging a future in Australia and promoting civic participation as a way of fostering an inclusive society. The forms it developed into during the 1980s to the 2010s, however, usually promoted national priorities over localised concerns, such as the aims of individual teachers, schools and curricula. Over the long term, these tendencies have provided the foundation for a shift in educational discourse from generating social capital under the Whitlam government (Lingard, 2000). More recent discourse by contrast has focused on how digital resources can be effectively used, accountability, minimising teacher demoralisation and burnout, maximising student engagement (Dunning, 2022) and tinged with concerns about how constructive critical thinking can be better encouraged (Paterson & Gavrin, 2022). In this article, the structures which catalysed such changes will be contextualised in relation to how post-truth has emerged as a byword for a range of disruptive factors, such as denial of knowledge expertise (Malpas, 1992; Coper, 2022), and how authorities (in governments and media) have pragmatically lied to subordinates (Tesich, 1992; Keyes, 2004; Consentino, 2020). The second part examines how these same conditions have been recently perpetuated through schools being characterised as key to economic recovery, rather than places to regenerate relationships such as those between community-school or curriculum-teacher-student in response to the disruption which has emerged during the COVID-19 pandemic. Lastly, there is a focus on what is being—and could be—done to encourage democratic thinking in an Australian classroom context, as ways of addressing phenomena linked with post-truth by generating cultural and political capital.

Navigating Democracy: Challenges and Triumphs in the Western Balkans

This paper delves into the multifaceted journey towards democracy in the Western Balkans, examining the interplay of historical legacies, contemporary challenges, and external influences. The narrative unfolds against the backdrop of the region's transition from authoritarianism to inclusive governance, acknowledging the complexities inherent in such a transformation. Focused on unraveling the complexities of multiethnic societies, the exploration scrutinizes the consequences of nationalism and the delicate balance required for stability. The role of external actors, notably the European Union, is critically assessed, revealing both opportunities for progress and constraints on regional autonomy. From the unresolved tensions between modernism and nationalism to the pursuit of democratic ideals, this paper contributes to a nuanced understanding of the ongoing democratic evolution in the Western Balkans. Through a comprehensive analysis, it becomes evident that the region's journey is characterized by a resilient spirit, navigating challenges, and celebrating incremental triumphs on the path toward a democratic destiny.

Right to Self Representation in Legal Proceedings: Autonomy, Challenges and Implications

The principle of self-representation in court, also known as "pro se" representation, is a fundamental aspect of the legal systems of many countries. This principle allows individuals to advocate for themselves in legal proceedings, even without the assistance of a lawyer. This abstract examines the significance and ramifications of the right to self-representation in court, shedding light on its historical origins, its practical uses, and the potential challenges it presents. The historical background of this right can be traced back to democratic ideals and the belief that individuals should have the freedom to represent their own interests in legal matters. It is recognized in various legal systems worldwide, including the United States, where the Sixth Amendment of the Constitution guarantees individuals the right to represent themselves in criminal cases. The practical implications of the right to self-representation are wide-ranging. It gives power to individuals who may lack the financial resources to hire a lawyer, ensuring that justice is accessible to everyone. It also promotes a more direct and personal connection between the legal system and those it serves, allowing individuals to have a voice in their own cases and decisions that impact their lives. Additionally, it can be a valuable resource for those with unique knowledge or insights into their case that a lawyer may not possess. However, the right to self-representation poses its own challenges. Without legal expertise, individuals may face difficulties in navigating the complex legal process, potentially resulting in unfavorable outcomes. Furthermore, judges and court officials must carefully balance the right to self-representation with the need to maintain an orderly and fair legal process, which can be a delicate undertaking. The significance of striking a balance between the requirement for sufficient legal support and guidance and the right to self-representation is emphasized in this abstract. It emphasizes how pro se litigants must have access to knowledge and support services in order to successfully traverse the judicial system. In conclusion, a fair and democratic legal system must include the right to self-representation. However, for this to be implemented successfully, it must take into account the difficulties that may arise and provide sufficient funding to guarantee that everyone has access to the courts.

Holding this space: navigating ethical issues in citizen deliberation

AbstractDeliberative mini-publics convene a randomly selected group of citizens to deliberate on a policy issue and generate recommendations for decision makers. A rich field of research and practice has focused on the quality of deliberation and its ideal conditions. As a result, we know what works. But we also need to know what conditions and issues prevent practice from achieving these best practices in the real world. I pursue this line of enquiry through a qualitative thematic analysis of interviews with 25 deliberative practitioners, who are responsible for the design and delivery of deliberative mini-publics. Existing research problematises practitioners’ relationship to commissioning authorities and the tension between commercial and democratic ideals. I find that, counter to previous research, practitioners have the capacity to push back against pressure from commissioners. This paper presents ethical issues encountered during the commissioning, design and implementation of mini-publics. Some practitioners believe that ethical issues can be mitigated through adapting deliberative designs, whilst others feel the limitations of their agency in a context where they are commissioned to deliver a service. These findings demonstrate the reflexivity of practitioners in the deliberative mini-publics community and advance understanding of the ethics and governance of deliberative mini-publics.

Strategic litigation in the “soft-authoritarian” state of Singapore: Attempts to decriminalize sodomy from 2010-2020

From 2010 to 2020, several efforts to decriminalize sodomy have taken place in Singaporean courts. Although these efforts have been largely unsuccessful, the cases have highlighted how courts can serve as a space to push for rights in a city-state that some have labelled “soft-authoritarian”—a state with democratic institutions in place, but with an under-developed set of democratic ideals and practices. This article argues that strategic litigation to decriminalize sodomy is forcing institutions in Singapore to evolve, become more democratic and responsive to a rising cultural backlash particularly with regards to sexuality. This article will examine some of the incremental changes that have come about due to the legal challenges, such as the strengthening of the court, the modification of laws to protect minorities, and the growth and diversification of civil society.

The Dark Side of Indonesia’s Democracy: Does Pancasila still hold influence?

Indonesia's transition to democracy has been celebrated globally, yet beneath the surface lies a complex interplay between democratic principles and the enduring influence of Pancasila, the state ideology. This paper delves into the less-explored facets of Indonesia's democracy, probing whether Pancasila still exerts significant influence in shaping the country's political landscape. The analysis begins by contextualizing Indonesia's democratic journey, tracing its evolution from the authoritarian era to the present. It then examines the foundational principles of Pancasila and their historical significance, emphasizing its role as a unifying force amidst Indonesia's diverse socio-cultural landscape. Drawing on recent political developments, the paper investigates instances where Pancasila's influence intersects with democratic ideals, as well as instances where tensions arise. It explores how Pancasila has been invoked both to promote national unity and to justify restrictions on dissent and minority rights. Furthermore, the paper assesses the implications of Pancasila's enduring influence on Indonesia's democratic governance, particularly in relation to issues of political pluralism, freedom of expression, and minority rights. It highlights the challenges of reconciling Pancasila's collectivist ethos with democratic principles of individual rights and freedoms. Through this analysis, the paper contributes to a deeper understanding of Indonesia's democracy by shedding light on its complexities and contradictions. It underscores the need for critical reflection on the role of Pancasila in shaping democratic norms and practices, urging for a nuanced approach that upholds democratic principles while honoring Indonesia's unique socio-cultural heritage.

Democratic Despotism, Democratic Culture, and the Democratic Ideal

Abstract In this paper, I outline Du Bois’s WWI-era theory of democracy, which comprises three parts: first, an historically specific explanation of the racially exclusionist character of the modern struggle for democracy; second, a justification of universal suffrage; and third, an account of democratic culture, the promotion of which he believed was necessary to supplement the enfranchisement of black people where white supremacy still threated the achievement of justice.

THE DYNAMICS OF BANGLADESH-US RELATIONS: DOES US FOREIGN POLICY FOCUS ON DEMOCRACY AND HUMAN RIGHTS OR GEOPOLITICAL INTERESTS?

The bilateral relationship between Bangladesh and the United States has undergone significant shifts over the years, shaped by complex interactions between democratic ideals, human rights concerns, and geopolitical interests. This study examines the multifaceted dynamics of Bangladesh-US relations, focusing on analyzing the extent to which US foreign policy prioritizes democracy, human rights, and geopolitical considerations. The study draws upon a comprehensive literature review of scholarly works, official documents, and expert analyses related to the historical context and critical milestones in Bangladesh-US relations. The present study employs a mixed-methods technique to incorporate qualitative data, which contributes to a comprehensive comprehension of the intricate aspects that shape United States foreign policy choices concerning Bangladesh. Using case studies and examining policy initiatives, this analysis assesses the concrete results of democracy and human rights measures, elucidating their influence on the bilateral relationship. Furthermore, the research explores the role of geopolitical considerations in shaping US engagement with Bangladesh. This analysis aims to evaluate the tangible outcomes of democracy and human rights measures by employing case studies and analyzing policy efforts. Through this approach, the study seeks to shed light on the impact of these measures on the bilateral relationship. This report provides a comprehensive overview of the Bangladesh-US relationship, seeking to establish whether the US foreign policy strikes a delicate balance between promoting democracy and human rights while addressing its geopolitical interests.

You Say I Want a Revolution

Abstract An underexamined insight of W. E. B. Du Bois’s John Brown is that John Brown worked for much of his life to cultivate democratic relationships with the Black Americans with and for whom he worked. Brown did so through practicing deference and deliberation, and by seeking authorization. However, Brown’s commitment to these practices faltered at a crucial moment in decision making: when he raided Harpers Ferry absent widespread support. Examining this aspect of John Brown brings into relief an overlooked tragic choice Brown made: To act in accordance with his own substantive vision of what justice required, Brown eschewed democratic ideals and practices that grounded the distinctive relations of equality he had cultivated with the Black communities with and for whom he worked.

Comparison of Political Dynasty in Indonesia and the United States

Purpose: The aim of the research is to photograph political dynasties that occur in democratic countries by taking the examples of Indonesia and America. Methods: The issue in this article is Political Dynasty in democratic countries. Political dynasties are built into a country's constitutional system. Its existence often triggers debate in societies that are studying ideal democracy. Political dynasties are considered to be the product of a political strategy to achieve victory. Results and Conclusion: The research results show that the emergence of political dynasties is influenced by the actions of political elites who tend to pass on their positions of political power to the next generation or below. This happens because of the tendency to maintain power. Another reason is to continue the program that was initiated previously. Research implications: Comparing political dynasties in Indonesia with the United States, the Indonesian state has a tendency to emerge random lytop down while in the United States it appears gradually bottom up. Originality/value: In the above context, it is hoped that political elites will prioritize political processes and ethics in cadre formation.

For the people: How we make online LAM collections more democratized

The article discusses how digitization in libraries, museums, and archives (LAM) can become more democratic. Digitization within LAM scholarship has been seen historically as a democratic act because it provides universal access to cultural heritage content, breaks down authoritative narratives, and enables participation from users. The article critiques the misconception that online collections democratize artifact information for public consumption and explores the ways in which LAM institutions fall short of living up to their democratic ideals when it comes to digital collections projects. Inspired by others with similar critiques, the authors discuss how LAM institutions can better fulfill the ideal of accessible and equitable access to their collections. The article emphasizes the importance of five areas of digital collections projects: system design, metadata practices, digitization selection and prioritization, labor, and user participation and engagement. The widespread misconception that digitization and digital collections are democratizing is a result of institutional biases that have masked undemocratic processes and systems which the authors strive to expose.

The Hidden Costs of Democracy: The Impact of Political Funding in India

Political funding is a cornerstone of democratic governance, influencing both electoral processes and policy decisions. In India, a vibrant democracy with a diverse political landscape, the role of political funding has been contentious and significant. This paper explores the complex relationship between political funding, transparency, and democracy in India, examining how opaque funding mechanisms can undermine democratic ideals and proposing reforms for enhancing transparency. Through a review of legislative frameworks, political practices, and scholarly analyses, this paper aims to examine the impact of political funding on democratic governance in India.

A Transformative Journey: The United States Commitment to Democratic Ideals and Global Advocacy

A Transformative Journey: The United States Commitment to Democratic Ideals and Global Advocacy

Criminal Law Perspective In The General Elections That Occurred In Indonesia

The enactment of Law Number 7 of 2017 concerning General Elections is proof that Indonesia really designs elections on a strong, constitutional, legal basis and regulates everything related to elections on a legal basis. Enforcement of election crimes in Indonesia needs to be improved as an effort to create a democratic system that is certain and just. Without legal certainty it will lead to anarchism and result in death, therefore democracy must provide legal certainty to all parties who seek justice. So the supremacy of law must be prioritized in guarding the democratic process in Indonesia. Whether the election criminal law enforcement mechanism is enforced from the start in accordance with the provisions of procedural law (due process of law) or not (undue process), if it has been implemented in accordance with the provisions of procedural law then justice has been carried out and upholds the ideology envisioned by the supremacy of law ( Rechtstaat) is based on democratic ideals to realize comprehensive justice so that election criminal law is used as a tool to postpone the ideological commitment to the ideals of establishing the Indonesian state. The aim of this research is to determine the perspective of criminal law on the implementation of elections in Indonesia. The method used in writing this research is normative juridical using statutory regulations and context.

Common Sense of a Wealth Tax

Thomas Paine’s writing helped spur the American colonies to independence and ensure that the new nation would be a republic, not a monarchy. In light of the renewed interest in wealth taxes, this article provides a close examination of Thomas Paine’s wealth tax proposal in the second volume of The Rights of Man. Unlike Paine’s proposal to tax inheritances, his 1792 proposal to tax wealth on an annual basis is often overlooked. The article identifies Paine’s various design specifications, provides original estimates of the impact of Paine’s wealth tax proposal within his own time period and as applied to billionaires today, and discusses ambiguities in the proposal. The article then places Paine in conversation with the contemporary wealth tax policy debate and demonstrates how Paine informs both the design and evaluation of tax policy. Lastly, the article clarifies the relationship between democratic ideals and taxation, portraying tax policy as a normative expression of republican ideals.

Unravelling the Premises of Power Sharing, Democratic Ideals and Nation-Building and its Institutional Challenges

This paper explores nation-building as a complex term, highlighting its ambiguity and historical growth. Nation-building is described as a societal process that happens gradually and is impacted by political, technological, and economic shifts. For a new state to be legitimate, citizens must actively shape a shared political will. This is the central idea. Power-sharing is a contentious and potentially pacifying practise that is being studied in nations where identity groups are divided. The study emphasises the significance of institutional design as political violence around the world increases. For long-term stability, nation-building is important because it fosters a unified identity, frequently via education. Problems, however, lead to critical questions about its suitability, especially in light of the democratic peace paradigm, and they end with a variety of factors to take into account for successful nation-building initiatives.