IS LIBERAL DEMOCRACY THE BEST MEANS OF PROMOTING OUR INTERESTS? A PRESENTATION BY IMOGEN, Rosie, aidan, lucy, grace and Helena.

What is liberal democracy? It is a form of government. A representative democracy with elected representatives, who make decisions on behalf of the people. Representatives are subject to the rule of law. Examples are: Elections Political parties Freedom of speech

What are our interests? Peace Education Representation Healthcare Basic standards of living Consumerism State support Career opportunities Religion Tradition Simplicity Family Freedom of speech Preservation

HOW DOES LIBERAL DEMOCRACY PROMOTE OUR INTERESTS? Civil Liberties Constitution and the Rule of Law Tolerance and Pluralism Elections

How doesn’t liberal democracy promote our interests? Elections can be corrupt. Government institutions may not represent large sections of society. The constitution undermines voices. Issues with the voting system.

The alternatives: socialism People may value economic equality. Nationalisation, welfare, and redistribution of wealth can improve our quality of life. Socialism would violate liberal democratic principles. However, socialism can only exist in authoritarian states. Socialism is not the best means of promoting our interests.

The alternatives: ANARCHISM Liberal democracy disenfranchises many voters It fails to represent the needs of poorer people, future people and non-human animals It is inherently unable to deal with the crisis of climate change Eco-anarchism provides an egalitarian alternative It prioritises collective responsibility as well as personal freedom It is applicable to a variety of cultural contexts It requires some sacrifices in quality of life It is the only viable long-term option

The alternatives: Authoritarianism A minority government holding absolute power over the majority Enforces strict laws to maintain its power Lack of personal freedom Many do not support their government Abides by a “one size fits all” rule, which underrepresents many May cause rising political tensions Lack of plurality, yet it pragmatic

Conclusion: Dependent on context and location Differing interests