The vulnerability of democracies

Abstract

Democracy, because of its complex structure and basic nature, is a challenge as the struggle for consensus and compromise is ongoing and its weaknesses and problems are intrinsic to the human being, whether it is for old or newly formed democracies. Inevitable tensions and divisions, based on differing aspirations, demands and conceptions of political and social life, exist continuously. Despite its vulnerabilities, democracy is also a promise for the values it upholds and promotes, for its adaptability and for the freedoms it offers. However, each “democracy” needs to be custom made for a specific country, taking into consideration social values, cultural factors, religion and traditions, historical events and conflicts, and most importantly, the existence or not of a “democratic mentality”. Democracy cannot be exported as a pre‐made aid‐package and a fix‐it‐all formula, as it is always changing, infinite in its variety and continuously adapting to the realities of the world.

Citation

Lapshina, E. (2004), "The vulnerability of democracies", Foresight, Vol. 6 No. 4, pp. 218-222. https://doi.org/10.1108/14636680410554692