Empowering the People: The Way Forward in Governance or Expanding Government Power?
Our democratic system is built on the foundation of a powerful yet accountable government and the active participation of its citizens. Unfortunately, in recent years, this balance has been disrupted, with corporations and selfish political interests taking precedence over genuine public good.
The Current State of Governance: A Need for Reform
In an ideal world, we would see citizens engaged in responsible governance and politicians working for the betterment of the nation, not personal agendas. However, the reality is far from it. Only a fraction of the population votes, leading to a lack of genuine representation. Political parties prioritize parochial interests over the needs of the people, and leadership is often mired in deceit and misconduct.
Society’s Role in Self-Governance
The current governance dispensation is corrupt, with all avenues leading to compromises of public good. Instead of relying solely on a centralized government, society must assert its role in self-management and accountability. Civil society organizations and community initiatives are crucial in ensuring that primary governing needs are met by creating an environment where citizens can take charge of their lives and the lives of those around them. This includes managing tasks that, in the past, have been left to the government, such as domestic chores.
The Media's Role in Evidential Governance
For the citizens to make informed decisions, the media must report the facts without bias. The role of government representatives in Congress is to act as a bridge between the people and the legislative body. They should provide transparent and accessible information to the public, allowing for two-way communication. This can be achieved through feedback loops on the internet, which would enable citizens to hold their representatives accountable.
Balancing Power Between the People and the Government
It is a false dichotomy to suggest that either we must overhaul the government to give more power to the people or expand the government's power. The ideal solution lies in finding a balanced approach that grows and enforces parts of the government needed for a fair and just society while also providing the people with greater autonomy.
Enforcing Net Neutrality and Regulating Personal Data
One area where the government can grow is in enforcing net neutrality rules, which are crucial for ensuring an open and fair internet. This also includes regulating how personal information is retained and used by corporations. Meanwhile, we should be reducing the regulations that limit our personal freedoms, such as the use of drugs and abortion, ensuring that power lies in the hands of the people rather than a select few.
Creating Just Electoral Systems and Municipal Services
To further empower the citizens, we must reform our electoral systems, ensuring that it adheres to the principle of "one person, one vote." Additionally, removing regulations that prevent municipal broadband can help small cities grow and thrive, providing them with better access to technology and infrastructure.
The goal is not to diminish the role of government, but to ensure that it serves the people effectively and efficiently. It is time for a fundamental rethinking of our governance to reflect the true values and needs of our society.