POL111 WK3 DB2 response 2 (75 words)
One of the challenges in modern democracy identified in the film is that there is a freedom recession going around in the world today, that we have the fewest electoral democracies since 1995 and the number of overall countries that are free have stagnated since 1998. Another one of the challenges stated in the film is that parties are supposed to be the conduit, the lifeline and the link between citizens and government decision making, parties are breaking down. There is also belief that in the future with the rate it is going that parties could someday possibly not perform any significant functions (Kijne, “After Democracy”).
I believe that separation of powers is a strength in modern day democracy because is separates the executive, legislative, and judicial branches in government to keep them from abusing their powers. I also think that checks and balances are a strength in modern democracy as well, not allowing one of the three branches to become to powerful over another.
One of the suggestions mentioned in the movie to address the shortcomings of modern democracy identified in the movie is bringing together ideas and experiences into an agreed political program that can be put in front of voters. Another is the need for no more participation and monitoring, but we need more effectiveness (Kijne, “After Democracy”).
I believe modern democracy will survive as long as there is more of a movement to work together and listen to the people. Separations of powers and checks and balances really help separate the power in order to keep from a superior. I think if we continue to have a government full of dishonesty and selfishness you could see the fall of modern democracy. I know in the United States many people get upset with the inability of our government to not carry through on things they promised. I know and everyone knows that not everyone will be satisfied but we can do a better job of coming together and listening to the people and their wants.
References:
Kijne, C. (Director). (2011). After Democracy [Motion picture]. Retrieved from https://fod.infobase.com/OnDemandEmbed.aspx?token=50424&aid=18596&plt=FOD&l oid=0&w=400&h=340
