The Life Span of Democracy
By Atomic_Mambo
@Atomic_Mambo (22)
United States
April 27, 2007 2:51pm CST
I really couldn't find a place to fit this, but I think it's a good mind-exercise, something to really think about.
The Roman Republic lasted some 450 years before several civil wars weakened it so much that most democracy (at the time) was gone. Thus became the Roman Empire.
When America's founding fathers carved the United States out of the old colonies, they embarked on a new Republic, a humble experiment in fair government. In crafting this government, they took several ideas right from old Rome. (Even some of our government structures show Roman and Greek influences.)
So ponder democracy's "lifespan." Does it always end and will it always end? Is totalitarian rule just easier?
And if so, what are the reasons for democracy's end? Civil wars as seen in past nations, or maybe the People just stop caring enough to stop it?I'd like to hear your thoughts and opinions. (And if any of my simple history is wrong, please correct me.)
1 person likes this
1 response
@IbeBruce (8)
• United States
28 Apr 07
I am not sure of your history timeline, it could be right. I wonder sometimes how it will all end for America and democracy. Will we go down in flames from a nucleur war? A natural disaster? Terrosists, or a coup at some point?
Or will slowly disintegrate into a self absorbed society and slowly lose our rights. One day you wake up and the government tells you what to, where to work, spies on you. Could that happen? We are so involved with our jobs, family and social activities I sometimes wonder if we as a people really know what the heck is going on in the world and even in our own country. I know lately I have sort of tuned out some of the world news. I have been busy and most of the news is bad anyway. I just dont want to hear it. Good question Atomic.
