Democracy requires constant vigilance and defense from "summary" of Democracy On Trial by Jean Bethke Elshtain
Democracy is not a static form of government, but rather a dynamic and ever-evolving system that requires active participation and protection from its citizens. It is not enough for individuals to simply cast their vote and then sit back and assume that everything will work out on its own. Democracy demands constant vigilance and defense from its citizens in order to ensure that it remains a viable and effective form of government. The concept of vigilance and defense is essential to the maintenance of democracy because there are always forces at play that seek to undermine or erode its foundations. Whether it be through the suppression of dissent, the concentration of power in the hands of a few, or the erosion of civil liberties, there are always threats to the democratic system that must be actively resisted and overcome. In order to protect democracy, citizens must be willing to speak out against injustice, challenge authority when necessary, and hold their leaders accountable for their actions. This requires a willingness to engage in the political process, to stay informed about current events, and to actively participate in the decision-making processes that shape our society. Moreover, democracy requires a commitment to the values of freedom, equality, and justice for all. It is not enough to simply pay lip service to these ideals; they must be actively defended and upheld in the face of opposition and adversity. This requires a willingness to stand up for what is right, even when it is difficult or unpopular to do so. In the words of Jean Bethke Elshtain, "Democracy is not a spectator sport. It requires the active engagement of its citizens in order to thrive and endure." This means that we must be willing to defend democracy against all threats, both foreign and domestic, and to work tirelessly to ensure that it remains a government of the people, by the people, and for the people. Only through constant vigilance and defense can we hope to preserve the democratic values that are so essential to our way of life.
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