1. OVERVIEW: POLITICAL SYSTEMS


Does it matter what kind of political system we have?

Over the course of history, societies have developed numerous political systems that reflect the times in which they live and the beliefs and values they hold. In the past and today, leaders hold power for hereditary reasons, or because they are part of an elite group, or because they have military, economic, or religious power. Where does the right to rule come from? Should it come at the end of gun? Should it come through the influence of money or connections?

Most people in the western world have come to believe that the ultimate authority comes from the people—all the people, with equal voice. However, implementing the principles of liberalism in a democracy has challenges.

© Esther Aarts 

What would happen if animals could vote?

Would our world be a different place? The picture to the left was designed by Dutch artist Esther Aarts to illustrate the concept of democracy. Note that numerous animals are voting to decide if a tree should be cut down to make way for a barn. The animals are voting in self-interest with most of the farm animals voting one way and the wild animals another. The sloth is napping, thereby missing the chance to vote on something of great importance to him. Ms Aarts points out the value and the challenges that come with democracy.

When you have the opportunity to vote in a federal or provincial election, will your voice be heard? Will you consider voting a privilege, a responsibility, or an option? Will you vote?

Moral:

It may be tempting to enjoy a nap while the others go to the referendum, but that might be not the wisest idea when your tree is at stake.




Voter apathy, conflicting interests, and the tyranny of the majority are all reflected in this simple design. Are these challenges to democracy?  


In this unit, you will explore the practices and challenges of political systems. You will finish the unit with a better sense of political systems around the world today and how well they represent liberal principles through an investigation of the following issue:
To what extent is liberalism viable?


This unit has three sections:

  1. Power and Decision-Making
  2. Challenges for Liberal Democracies
  3. Liberalism and Authoritarian Systems