Embarrassed for Democracy

I am one of those people who believe that, even with its obvious shortcomings, democracy (and by that I mean political contestation and inclusion), is generally the best means for securing political justice.  Democracy, in other words, is good.  It pains me, therefore, to watch as John McCain, and the deeply dishonorable campaign he is currently waging, makes the worst of democracy.  Instead of debating the pressing issues of the day, he descends into the most scurrilous personal attacks; instead of elevating political discourse, he, and his vice-presidential side-kick, inspire audiences to hateful rants.  It is an embarrassment for the United States, and an embarrassment for democracy.

   Chinese friends look at the mud-slinging and ask me why anyone would suppose that democracy would be a good thing for their country.  Wouldn't it just lead to demagoguery and pointless in-fighting?  McCain drives them away from democracy, he is repellent.  

    All I can say is: Obama.  I do not have overblown expectations for him.  He is one man, one frail and imperfect man, but he is obviously a better man, in his political behavior, than McCain. And he may be able to draw the country together, and draw something better out of it, than any recent leader.  His candidacy offers the hope of a revival of what is best in democracy: deliberation, inclusion, justice.

    A modern Confucian standpoint reminds us that honor, including political  honor, is not an existential characteristic but, rather, a behavioral accomplishment.  In order to be politically honorable you must act daily in a politically honorable manner.  That you might have acted honorably in the past is a good thing, but it is insufficient to define you in the present as honorable.  To be honorable you must enact honor in the here and now.  It is in this manner that John McCain, whatever his past honor, is now a dishonorable man.  He is an embarrassment to democracy everywhere.

Comments

[Jack]

I would disagree that it would be an embarrassment for democracy. That's just the cost of living in a transparent society.

And as for China, it may very well lead to demagoguery and corruption. China has had no history of democracy or yet to fully achieve the precursors (strong and transparent civil institutions, a large and educated middle class, an awareness of national identity) of one. Elections are only a capstone to other things that should (and some must) come before to ensure its own success.