Democracy does not equal freedom...

Democracy is Not the Same as Freedom

Richard Ebeling emails:

Dear Bob,

I have a new article on the news and commentary website, "EpicTimes," on, "Democracy is Not the Same as Freedom."

I point out the too frequent confusion that democratic political participation and election of government office holders means the establishment or preservation of freedom.

Democracy is merely a mechanism for selecting those in political power without a recourse to outright violence.

It does not specify or assure any recognition or respect for the individual rights of people or, therefore, any guarantee of a securing of their individual liberty to live their lives as they peacefully choose without governmental coercive interference.

Achievements of democratic systems anywhere in the world is a hollow victory for freedom if it is not grounded in the principle and enforcement of the individual's right to his life, liberty, and honestly acquired property.

http://www.epictimes.com/2014/09/democracy-is-not-the-same-as-freedom/

Best,
Richard

Source:
http://www.economicpolicyjournal.com/2014/09/democracy-is-not-same-as-freedom.html