American influence in the world depends on the ability to act with real capacity and set an example that others will want to follow. This all takes resources.
Richard N. HaassRead
Democracy requires an informed citizenry able to question its government.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Democracy relies on citizens being knowledgeable and willing to hold their government accountable.
This quote emphasizes the essential role that an educated and aware populace plays in a democracy. It suggests that for a democratic system to function properly, citizens must not only be informed but also possess the critical thinking skills necessary to challenge and question their governmentβs actions, ensuring that it remains accountable to the people it serves.
Themes
DemocracyCitizenGovernmentAccountabilityInformed
In practice
Example use cases
In a civic education class to emphasize the importance of informed voting.
More from Richard N. Haass
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Nationalism is a tool increasingly used by leaders to bolster their authority, especially amid difficult economic and political conditions.
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What countries must do to join the World Trade Organization is precisely what they must do to become productive and democratic: accept the rule of law, reduce corruption, and become open, accountable, and transparent.
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Terrorism needs to be de-legitimized in the way that slavery has been. Doing so will make governments and individuals think twice before becoming a party to terrorism; it should also make it less difficult to garner support for international action against those who nevertheless carry it out.
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The political world is defined by relationships rather than transactions, and by numerous actors at home and abroad with independent power. Navigating such a world is difficult and precarious.
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If government were a product, selling it would be illegal.
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