Democracy Is Based On An Optimistic View Of Human Nature

It believes that, in spite of certain shortcomings and handicaps, human nature is inherently good and perfectible. This view rejects the old belief that human nature cannot be improved by education, training and better environment. For example, writers like Herbert Spencer tried to show with the help of Biology and Psychology that defects and deficiencies of mind and character cannot be removed by better education, better houses and better environment.

Democracy rejects this belief and takes an optimistic view of human nature. It believes that given good and healthy environment, better education and better living conditions, and unhampered opportunity for self-development, common men and women can also achieve great things. The history of the Soviet Union proves that “the sons mid daughters of former slaves, cobblers and peasants can develop into great generals and scientists, if the entire environment is improved.”

It is not based on the psychology of power or fear

All other forms of government, except democracy, are more or less bused on the psychology of power and fear. Some of them, like the Fascist dictatorship, idealise power and boast of it. The people have no check on that authority. In democracy, however, authority does not come from above. Its only source is the people themselves. They exercise check on authority. Democracy makes authority a trust. Those who exercise authority are clected by their fellow citizens for short terms of office and are responsible to them for the exercise of the trust reposed in them. This trust is justified by promoting welfare by them.

  • Add Your Comment

    This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.