Democracy has no
problems?
The best system is
democracy,
the
real direct democracy,
where
every decision
is
taken by the majority
(not the
ridiculous caricature
we have today and have
baptised democracy).
But if we truly
believe
that the best form
of government
is a democracy,
then we must
consider whether it also
has some weaknesses in
its core.
—
If many people decide together,
is it impossible that
they could
make a mistake?
No way impossible,
but the
probability of error is small, because
there will be some who
have a different opinion.
Different views
will be heard.
—
And if all of them without exception have
the same opinion, can
it be excluded that
this opinion may be
wrong?
Again, it cannot
be excluded,
only that the
probability is even smaller,
and the responsibility
fairly shared.
Since everyone
was involved in
the wrong decision,
it is correct for
everyone to suffer
the consequences
of his error.
If there is any
weakness in democracy
we will have to
look elsewhere.
An
important instrument
of
democracy is the vote.
It would be nice
if,
after the
discussion and the
exchange of arguments
we
could reach a single
proposal
which is accepted by all.
•
But
if this is not the case?
•
If
we cannot agree,
•
if
we do not have unanimity,
•
then
what?
Then we vote,
and the opinion
that
receives the most votes
(even if only one more)
prevails.
Can we be sure
that this
opinion was the right
one?
Is it impossible
for the majority
(or half plus one)
to be wrong?
Is it impossible
that they have incomplete
or biased information
and are not able
to appreciate the
arguments
of the other side?
If the decision
of the majority
was wrong,
it will be evident
in practice.
But then the
consequences are
attributable both to
the majority
(justly, because
they have chosen the wrong path)
And to the
minority
(unfairly, because
they cried a warning):
"Attention,
this path goes over the cliff!".
— Then
what should we do?
Do you propose
abolishing the vote?
Of course not.
I only suggest we
should think
a little more about
voting.