Rethinking Our Political Vocabulary

By Matthew Hayward:

It's high time we address a common error: calling the United States a 'democracy.' This isn't just about getting a term wrong; it's about misrepresenting the very essence of our government. We are a constitutional republic, where elected representatives make decisions within a framework designed to protect individual rights, unlike a direct democracy where the majority has the final say.

This isn't just semantics. It's about understanding and respecting the structure that defends our liberties from majoritarian impulses. Republicans, politicians, and public figures should lead by example and use 'republic' to describe our system.

I often hear phrases like 'saving our democracy' or 'threats to our democracy' in political discourse, especially from liberal commentators. These phrases oversimplify and misrepresent our complex system. Let's encourage everyone, especially those in influential positions, to use accurate terms. Educating ourselves and others about our government's true nature is vital for informed discussions and the health of our nation.

In loving memory of Sandi Belzer

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