“If you do not take an interest in the affairs of your government, then you are doomed to live under the rule of fools.” – Plato, there are several alternative translations of this passage taken from Republic, Book 1, 347c (part of a 12 volume set)
One popular approach to modern politics is to refuse to participate in the morass of the political process. The downside is the proximate result of being governed by persons who are, at times, less than desirable. When some remain apathetic, we find our republic’s leadership rife with those who lack wisdom, knowledge, and/or altruistic intentions and thereby devoid of practical leadership qualities and skills needed to steer our nation in the 21st Century.
Politics is the social arena in which laws, regulations, and policies are decided that impact a nation’s citizens and foreign nationals living within its borders. It is only through participation that concerns may be addressed. Abstention silences the voices that need to be heard and widens the influence of those with less capabilities. This decreases what is known as Jean-Jacque Rosseau’s “general will” and damages what might be considered the best or better interests of a given democratic society and/or republic. To the extent that some might avoid participating in this societal scheme, there are a great number of potential negative consequences to consider. Political disengagement distorts the betterment of society and its decisions.
Active participation and engagement ensure the well-being of society. Multiple valid concerns drive this disengagement. The political dynamics at stake and play in society make it urgent that the best among us participate in this process and the discussions inherent to this process. Society cannot afford the abdication of power to shape the world we live in for the self and the benefit of others. The political process is how to affect change, hold leaders and others accountable, and contribute to the betterment of society. By active participation, governance by persons of lesser intentions is avoided.
