GEW Editorial
They are self-proclaimed champions of democracy and human rights. They criticise and blame all the nations that do not take their “democracy” seriously and prefer to follow their own path to progress and development. They even wage war on any nation that seems to them too independent and proud of its historical patrimony and system. That happened to Indochina, Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia, as it happened to Syria, Iraq, Libya, and many others. Only those who detain nuclear weapons don’t dare attack: North Korea is an obvious example.
Once upon a time, the USA was a democracy. But that was a long time ago, before the Americans lost their “innocence abroad”, to use the same expression of Martin Indyk in his book about US foreign policy.[1]
Concerning US democracy, in 2022, the results of a Pew Research Center indicated that about six in ten US adults (58%) are not satisfied with the way democracy is working in America. Additionally, the vast majority of Americans (85%) believe that the US political system either needs significant changes (43%) or needs to be reformed entirely (42%). This suggests widespread dissatisfaction and a demand for substantial political change. Moreover, a significant proportion of U.S. adults who desire political reform (58%) lack confidence in the system\’s ability to change effectively.[2]
In 2023, the situation worsened as the dissatisfaction reached unprecedented levels.
According to a recent poll conducted by The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research, only about 1 in 10 US adults give high ratings to the way democracy is working in the United States or how well it represents the interests of most Americans. The poll shows that 53% say Congress is doing a bad job of upholding democratic values, compared with just 16% who say it’s doing a good job. The findings illustrate widespread political alienation as a polarised country limps out of the pandemic and into a recovery haunted by inflation and fears of a recession.
This is not a new development. The pattern has been there since the post-World War 2 period. Many Americans did not trust their government, and one of the first objectives of McCarthyism was to brainwash the masses with propaganda directed to demonise socialism and socialists with, in the first place, the URSS, China, indeed, and all the other nations that chose a different development path.
According to a 2022 survey conducted by Pew Research Center, only 20% of Americans trust the government in Washington to do the right thing just about always or most of the time. The public\’s criticisms of the federal government are many and varied. Some are familiar: Just 6% say the phrase \”careful with taxpayer money\” describes the federal government extremely or very well; another 21% say this represents the government somewhat well. A comparably small share (only 8%) describes the government as responsive to ordinary Americans\’ needs.[3]
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A foundational principle since its inception, the United States has espoused democratic ideals, exerting influence on a global scale. The recent poll reveals that the majority view Congress\’s representation of democratic values as poor, triggering a pressing inquiry into the nation\’s democratic standing.
Perspective on Current Democratic Functioning
The historical narrative of the USA as a democratic archetype contrasts starkly with recent challenges impeding its democratic perception. Political polarisation, compounded by media influence and financial interests, has cast doubts on the nation\’s democratic health, challenging its traditional image.
Examining Key Components of a Credible Democracy
To comprehend the erosion of democratic confidence, it is vital to scrutinise fundamental democratic components. Electoral processes in the USA, marred by issues of voter suppression and gerrymandering, call into question the fairness of democratic representation. Additionally, the influence of lobbying and special interests on policy raises concerns about governmental transparency and accountability.
Reflecting on Public Opinion and Governmental Performance
The recent poll offers a transformative perspective on public trust in government institutions, indicating a substantial deviation from historical sentiments and challenging the widely upheld notion of a robust US democracy.
The USA\’s Role on the World Stage
As a historical advocate of democratic principles, the faltering perception of US democracy domestically poses challenges to its international reputation. Global viewpoints on US democracy have shifted, influenced by recent domestic uncertainties.
Navigating Polarised Perspectives
Diverse opinions on the credibility of US democracy amplify the complexity of the debate. Insights from political figures, experts, and citizens present multifaceted evaluations of the nation\’s democratic status, highlighting the assessment divergence.
Conclusion
The unveiling of public sentiments and governmental performance raises pertinent questions about the USA\’s democratic credentials. Whether the USA continues to exemplify democratic standards for other nations demands thorough contemplation.
Above all, the US government should acknowledge the shortcomings in its system. Corruption is officially approved in this system based on money and lobbying. It is thus unnecessary to add that the United States should quit \”teaching\” other countries \”how to be free and democratic.\”
Notes
[1] Martin Indyk, Innocent Abroad: An Intimate Account of American Peace Diplomacy in the Middle East. Simon & Schuster (2014).
[1] On July Fourth, how Americans see their country and their democracy, BY KATHERINE SCHAEFFER, JUNE 30, 2022. Pew Research Center.
On July Fourth, how Americans see their country and their democracy
[3] Americans’ Views of Government: Decades of Distrust, Enduring Support. Pew Research Center. 6 June 2022 …. https://www.pewresearch.org/politics/2022/06/06/americans-views-of-government-decades-of-distrust-enduring-support-for-its-role/.
