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Discussion » Questions » Politics » Does citizen participation in democracy end with the ballot box?
rattbagge

Does citizen participation in democracy end with the ballot box?

Because, when people react en-masse to some government policy or edict outside, or in repudiation of, the manifesto on which it rode to power, then, typically heavily armed police move in to disperse the demonstration. When the next election comes due it may be too late to redress the hurt done. Also, people have short memories.          

Posted - February 2, 2018
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  • 5835
    The only citizen participation that has any meaning is support. Every government represents its citizens, or at least enough of them to support the regime and enforce the policies on the rest. If not so, the citizens first protest and then refuse to support the regime. Many examples of this have happened in many countries in recent years. Violence is not necessary, although the rulers will respond with violence to protect their authority. The turning point is when the police realize that they have to switch sides to protect their own families. It is enough to stand in the streets and shout. You don't have to throw a government down, just stop holding it up.
      February 2, 2018 7:32 PM MST
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  • 22891
    maybe
      February 3, 2018 3:53 PM MST
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