The following debate originally took place here, on the Facebook page, “Thomas Paine“…
(replies from all third parties have been omitted for clarity)
Thomas Paine’s FB Page: The Sun never shined on a cause of greater worth
“Democracy… a challenge”
Jan Paulson: That’s funny??? Neither my copy of the Declaration of Independence nor my copy of the Constitution mentions anything about a Democracy… they keep refering to A REPUBLIC!!!!!
Jason Gade: There is no significant difference between a democracy and a republic, unless you are being a nitpicking asshole.
Rayn: Good point, Jan! I was thinking that very same thing! To America’s Founders, pure “Democracy” was the dangerous legalization of 51% mob rule, while a “Constitutional Republic” sought to protect the Inalienable Rights of the Citizenry, as established by the Constitution, regardless of the will of the majority.
So, rest assured that making such a distinction is a far cry from being a “nitpicking asshole.” 🙂
“Democracy is not freedom. Democracy is two wolves and a lamb voting on what to eat for lunch. Freedom comes from the recognition of certain rights which may not be taken, not even by a 99% vote.” – Marvin Simkin
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