Some argue that only by withdrawing our participation from the broken system can we hope to fix it or build something better. Are they right? Part 1: Why politicians must lie and how selling ice-creams is like an election campaignPart 2: Political donations corrupt democracy in ways you might not realise Democracy theoretically puts the power of governance in the hands of the people. The origins of the word come from the ancient Greek words; dêmos, meaning people and kratos, meaning power. However, many have argued that modern western political systems are closer to plutocracies than democracies. A plutocracy is ruled by money rather than by the people (ploutos means wealth). The costs of running a modern election campaign make it very difficult for candidates to win without substantial financial backing. Sourcing those finances is inherently corrupting because big corporate donors only give money in return for political favours. Combine this with the ice cream stall electioneering strategy of both major parties occupying very similar political territory, and you have a system ripe for voter disengagement. Continue reading...
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