UNIT 5: POLITICAL SYSTEMS AND THE WORLD TODAY
22. Conclusion
In Unit 5, you explored the extent to which liberal values are workable in today's society as seen through various political systems. You looked at the nature of power and authority and explored the imposition of liberalism historically and in our contemporary world. You looked at various forms of democracy including systems of Canada and the United States. You considered authoritarian political systems, realizing that democracies can be less than liberal and authoritarian systems can reflect both liberal principles and the will of the people to some extent.
Through this study you should now be closer to having your own ideas about whether liberalism really works and if there is justification for liberalism being imposed on people who may have a different worldview.
Power and Decision Making
In many traditional societies, decision making has been through consensus with a view for the common good. When the first Europeans arrived in North America, they brought their beliefs in individualism with them. These beliefs conflicted with a more collectivist worldview. As more Europeans came to North America, they brought their political systems with them, ignoring the existing structures of aboriginal people. They endeavoured to impose their views on the aboriginal people, causing conflicts which are with us today.
Historically, decisions in most nations of the world were made by powerful leaders who inherited their rule. As societies became more liberal, people began to believe that real authority comes from the people in the form of democracy.
In terms of foreign policy, powerful nations of the world continue to try to impose their liberal beliefs on other nations. Iraq and Afghanistan are contemporary examples.
Challenges for Liberal Democracies
Democracy has various forms. Each presents various challenges and opportunities to reflect the will of the people. Types of democratic systems include:
- direct democracy
- responsible government as found in Canada
- republican democracy as found in the United States