Democracy touted as the best system of government these days.
Yet, some of these countries have slow (but free) healthcare, and corruptions with citizens often feeling unhappy about their governments.
But why? Citizens vote for people they want to run the country.
Late Singapore Prime Minister, Lee Kuan Yew, pointed out a few prerequisites for democracy to work.
- An educated mass to understand the difference between a good plan and a good story.
- A reasonably prosperous society and vote would be less likely to be bought.
- Capable people running for office instead of voting for the better of two evils.
- A non-corrupt voting system that people trust.
- A non-violent society where the people are not manipulated by fear.
Elections can easily become an auction, where parties compete on immediate material benefits.
Singapore enforced many unpopular policies that wouldn’t win hearts nor votes. The 2 years mandatory military service, the highest paying ministers, banning chewing gums sale, caning, the death sentence and building of casinos. Singapore work despite being a democracy state.
Someone had foresight and cared enough to risk their reputation for the long-term good that might be unpopular.
The point is, unlike the solar system, political system is made up. It can be changed. 50 years ago, Singapore was a mud filled fishing village.
If you care enough, you can change it.
