Is the desire for democracy decreasing or increasing?

#113

My Dear Friend of Democracy,

For a long time, it was common sense to believe that dictatorships would eventually collapse where prosperity increases.

Then China taught us otherwise.

But does that mean there is no connection between increasing prosperity and democratic development at all?

I think exceptions prove the rule. China is that exception.  

There still is a compelling argument that (at least) the desire to live in a democracy increases as societies become more prosperous.

The argument goes like this.

The wealthier a society is, the less people have to worry about self-preservation. Food, clothing and housing are provided, and social security systems protect against hardship in the event of unemployment, illness and old age.

So prosperity enables people to focus on self-actualisation. They educate themselves and learn what suits them, take up careers, go on holiday wherever and whenever they want, and say and think what they want to say and think.

So, prosperity is the most crucial condition of self-development.

This is where democracy comes into play.

Because self-development needs a free society. You can only develop extensively if you are free to choose where you live, what profession you take, what political party you vote for, what opinions you follow. You name it.

So, everyone striving for self-development (due to increasing prosperity) demands and supports democracy. It is simply in their interest.

The reverse also applies: Societies in existential crises, wars, or severe economic distress must focus on their survival. Then, democracy becomes less important, and support for democracy declines.

✊ As the world's standard of living continues to increase, we can be in good spirits that the desire for democracy will continue to grow.

See you in Europe,

Johannes