Ideals of Democracy

Two centuries after the founding fathers signed their names to the Constitution Americans are still struggling to comprehend the basic idea of democracy that these men understood all along. Identified most correctly as the irony of democracy it states that,
“Democracy is government by the people, but the survival of the democracy
rests on the shoulders of elites…elites must govern wisely if government “by the
people” is to survive.” (Dye, 1)
The masses have always regarded American democracy with the same awe they afforded to the American Dream just a few generations ago. Democracy is an amazing form of government few people in this world are privileged to be a part of. Few of these masses truly understand the reality of American “democracy.”
The founding fathers had a great deal of foresight and addressed many issues in the Constitution which are still relevant today. However, in their handling of some issues they were certainly regarding their self-interests above those of the masses they represented. For example, the authors failed to clearly define their meaning on certain key issues. As secretary of the treasury, Alexander Hamilton took it upon himself to interpret the meaning of Congress’ ability to do those things which were “necessary and proper.” In doing so he expanded the power of Congress to include all things deemed “necessary and proper” by the elites. Often referred to as the elastic clause this short part of the Constitution has sparked much debate on the limitations of Congress’ power in America. As a result of his interpretation of the elastic clause Hamilton caused a great deal of conflict. The ultimate result was the emergence of the first election where political parties were involved. The founding fathers failed to address the prospect of disagreement over ambiguity in the Constitution and as a result left room for a division which exists still today.
Secondly, Congress failed to give Americans enough involvement in their government. Though these elites understood the illiteracy of the masses they failed to see their desire to be involved in their government. As a result, the Constitution which was originally ratified allowed Americans only to elect House members. This gave elites almost complete control in choosing all other leaders in the national government. The voting process was entirely too complicated. The founding fathers created the electoral college and bound Americans to a system which makes little sense. In present day America citizens can vote and the candidate for President who receives the majority vote may not be declared the victor. Because the founding fathers believed the elites who were educated were the only citizens intelligent enough to choose our national leader they created the electoral college, which serves little use in 2006.
The United States has been involved in the conflict with Iraq for over three years at this point. Great strides have been made in creating a democratic form of government in this once oppressed country. People got to vote in a general election. Basic rights have been restored. However, there is still not the peace that was present when the American Constitution was ratified. Part of the problem with this unrest is the state of affairs in Iraq. Democracy is defined as “rule by the people” literally. However, just as it was true 200 years ago democracy cannot involve every citizen actually ruling. There would be no consistency in a country. Therefore, the leaders must be chosen “by the people” to make decisions in the best interest of the country. The modern day world is littered with governments which claim to be democratic but are actually far from it. However, when writing their Constitution it was important for them to address relevant issues they face. For example, women’s rights have long been suppressed in Iraq. Though women did not have rights when the Constitution was written they have had them for nearly a century now in America. However, women in Iraq are helping to define democracy in their country. How are women to be involved in this new experiment in their country? What role will they play? These are important questions to be considered.
One topic which has been debated for over two centuries in America is the separation of church and state. It is important that Iraqi’s create their own definition for this controversial statement. This will aid in allowing their country to focus on more relevant issues after the ratification of their Constitution.
The most important issues to be addressed in Iraq are those found in the American Bill of Rights. Will these rights be granted to all citizens of Iraq? Are the rights of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness just as important as they were in 1787? Are there essential rights which are necessary considering world conditions today? Iraqi’s must make these decisions for themselves in creating a government which will support all of its citizens.
There are many essential principles of democracy which Iraqi’s can address today before they embark on their journey in democracy. For example, do people have the right to address public policy and call for a change in it? America has always struggled with the media and their freedoms. It is important that Iraq address this issue and create an open and accountable media. Most important, however, is the concept that all men are considered innocent until proven guilty. All people are afforded the opportunity for a trial and fair representation. These rights are essential in creating a lasting democracy.
Iraq is just beginning on their part of the experiment which much of the world is enjoying today. America began the experiment over 200 years ago and we have yet to understand all of its facets. However, we have come a long way in ensuring that all citizens are granted all rights which they are “endowed by their creator” (Thomas Jefferson).