1. FOUNDATIONS OF THE DEMOCRATIC SYSTEM
Why Democracy?
FOUNDATIONS OF THE DEMOCRATIC SYSTEM

2. Do Now: Analyze these quotations in groups:
The best argument against democracy is a five-minute conversation with the average voter.
No one pretends that democracy is perfect or all-wise. Indeed, it has been said that democracy is the worst form of government except all those other forms that have been tried from time to time.
Winston Churchill
What is Churchill implying in these quotations? What seems to be some of the pitfalls of a democratic system?

3. Why do we have a democracy?
Regarded as the very best system of government
Belief in the basic democratic principles
Faith that the system will continue to work/serve the needs of the people

4. Democratic Principles
Recognitions of the fundamental worth and dignity of every person
A respect for the equality of all persons
A faith in the majority rule and minority rights
Acceptance of the necessity of compromise
Emphasis on the widest possible degree of individual freedom

5. DISCUSS
Come to a consensus! Which reading seemed to be most valid/relevant to characterize our democratic system? Why is that the case?

6. Summary:
“No government demands so much from the citizens as Democracy, and none gives so much back.”
James Bryce
Do you agree or disagree with is quote? Justify your response.

7. Do Now:
“No government demands so much from the citizens as Democracy, and none gives so much back.”
James Bryce
Compare and contrast your reactions to this quote in your groups.

8. Government Services education. social services. roads and transport.
waste disposal.
economic development.
countywide planning and the environment.
protecting the public.
libraries.

9. But, are we really getting that much back at this point?

10. The United States has become one of the richest countries with the highest levels of wealth inequality.

11. The United States fails to offer quality healthcare to citizens compared to other wealthy countries.

12. The United States lags behind in education compared to other countries worldwide.

13. So, how did we get here?

14. DISCUSS
Compare and contrast your responses in your groups. How does the article seem to suggest that our democracy is in crisis?

15. Is our democracy simply an illusion? Or failing altogether?

16. Although Americans remain politically tolerant, they seem to have less support for our political system as a whole.

17. But year olds are now less politically tolerant and have less support for the political system.

18. Americans even believe that it would be acceptable to abandon our democratic institutions.

19. DISCUSS
To what extent are millennials becoming disengaged and disillusioned with democracy? Why is that the case?

20. How democratic is our democracy?
Summary:
How democratic is our democracy?