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The Interplay of Personal Opinion and Democratic Processes
Democracy, at its core, is a system built upon the principle of informed consent. Citizens, through the process of voting, collectively decide the direction of their society. This process hinges on the ability of each individual to form their own opinions, based on available information, and express them through their vote. However, the relationship between personal opinion and democracy is complex and often misunderstood.
No politician has ever given power to the people
We asked AI the following question: has there ever been a politician elected who promised to hand over all the power to the people and got elected on that basis and then actually did hand the power over to the people?
The Myth of Stupidity: Apathy, Not Ignorance
The pervasive belief that “most people are stupid” is a dangerous oversimplification. While individual intelligence varies, the perception of widespread stupidity often stems from a misunderstanding of human behavior, specifically the role of emotional responses, particularly apathy, in shaping decisions and actions. This article will explore how apathy, rather than a lack of intelligence, frequently underlies behaviors interpreted as “stupid,” challenging the common misconception.
The Wisdom of the Crowd vs. The Pronouncements of the Powerful
Direct democracy isn’t about chaos; it’s about harnessing the combined brainpower of a nation to build a better future. How can we empower citizens to participate meaningfully in shaping their own lives and communities?
Upcoming Release of our public decision making system.
Shortly we hope to announce a date for a major breakthrough New Zealand’s public decision-making process. Our new system has been designed to remain neutral and not take any sides. Instead, it will present all sides of a debate and enable people to vote on them and add more debates and more substance to existing…
The Crumbling Pillars of Democracy: A People’s Cry
The very foundation of democracy rests on a simple, yet profound principle: the right of the people to have a genuine say in the decisions that shape their lives and their nation’s destiny. This isn’t merely a matter of ticking boxes on a ballot; it’s about ensuring every citizen, regardless of their political affiliation or ideology, feels heard, respected, and valued in the processes that determine their future. For too long, this fundamental right has been eroded, chipped away by a growing disregard for the citizenry
Democracy is about the empowerment of people
Democracy, at its heart, is not a system of judgment, but one of empowerment. It doesn’t dictate what you should believe or how you should vote; instead, it provides a framework for understanding complex issues and then entrusts you, the citizen, with the crucial responsibility of making informed decisions.
Winning proportional representation: Lessons from New Zealand
2023 has been a big year of 30th anniversaries for us. In 1993 we were married. FairVote, the organization we helped found, moved into its first …
Jordan Peterson moves to US over bill that could turn Canada into ‘totalitarian hellhole’
Controversial psychologist Jordan Peterson has fled Canada as liberals push to pass legislation that he says will suppress free speech and turn the …
Authoritarianism Expert Flags Chilling Thing That’s ‘Happening Now’ With Trump
Ruth Ben-Ghiat talked about the “personalist rule” and its worrying effects. Authoritarianism expert Ruth Ben-Ghiat and conservative attorney George …