We need a new theory of democracy – because this version has failed
16 days ago
- #democracy
- #political theory
- #voter behavior
- 62% of Americans favor government responsibility for health coverage.
- 65% supported Biden's infrastructure bill, and 63% wanted increased trade.
- 75% worried tariffs would raise consumer prices.
- 83% of likely voters supported federal housing assistance post-disaster.
- Despite polling, 2024 voters elected a president opposing these policies.
- Theories explaining voter behavior include ignorance, media influence, and politics as entertainment.
- Ignorance theory suggests voters didn't understand policies but contradicts rational choice models.
- Svengali theory blames Fox News and propaganda for brainwashing voters.
- Politics-as-entertainment theory argues voters treat politics like reality TV.
- The 'This-is-who-we-are' theory suggests voters knowingly support harmful policies.
- Democratic theory flaws highlighted, comparing U.S. to Weimar Germany's collapse.
- Current U.S. democracy seen as fragile, with risks of authoritarian takeover.