Introduction to American Politics online course Dahl, Ch1 discussion

I’m working on a Political Science question and need guidance to help me study.

Dahl, Ch1: Do we really need a guide?

Please reply to the question and comment constructively on a classmates’ posting.

Question

Dahl, Ch 1: “Do We Really Need a Guide?” (6pgs).

In each chapter by Dahl, respond to his points and arguments. How can you respond to your peers directly in order to build and steer the discussion(s)?

Here is classmate’s posting from question. Please reply in 1st person point of view.

Classmate’s post

Dahl raised the question ‘If “democracy” has meant different things at different times, how can we possibly agree on what it means today?’ (Dahl, p3). The definition of a democracy is a system of government by the whole population or all the eligible members of a state, typically through elected representatives where the majority rules. But what does democracy mean to you? For me democracy isn’t just the textbook definition simply put. It is more complex and multidimensional on what my wants and needs are as a citizen of this country. Yes it allows us to elect leaders whose interests are vested in the people but that is a scary thought in and of itself that I am putting my trust in those who are more knowledgeable to make choices and decisions for me and for you as well. It is my opinion then that we will never agree on the meaning of democracy today, tomorrow or the years to come. My beliefs may not be the same as yours or that of the leaders we elect but majority rules so therefore I must accept the decisions that are made; right, wrong, or indifferent. What is your definition of democracy?