The assignment in question asked us to read an article by Philipe C. Schmitter and Terry Lynn Karl titled, What Democracy Is... and Is Not, and to Compare what some of the possible procedures are that make Democracy possible versus those that make it feasible. Provide examples from your experience and compare those experiences with those of the authors.
Here is what I came up with. I try to reference the article so as to minimize confusion of reference.
The article, What Democracy is and Is Not states that there are many types of democracies. Generally that diverse practices will produce similar results. “Modern political democracy is a system of governance in which rulers are held accountable for their actions in the public realm by citizens, acting indirectly through the competition and cooperation of their elected representatives”. This is a lovely and concise definition which encompases the spirit of democracy.
The article lists seven (then two more) procedures that make democracy possible. If the above definition is true, then all of these are well met.
1. Constiutionally vested control over government policy.
2. Frequent and fairly conducted elections
3. All adults have the right to vote.
4. All adults have the right to run for office
5. Citizens have a right to express themselves on political matters
6. Alternative sources of information exist and are protected by law
7. Citizens have the right to form independent interest groups
And then
8. No overriding opposition from unelected officials
9. Must be able to act independently from outside political systems.
I once read, though I don’t remember where, that the United States became a democracy when John Adams took office. Had Washington not stepped down, the United States would have been another country which elected a monarch. This principle is basically what the article says makes a Democracy feasible. The power baton must be able to be passed along to another, even to one’s opponent.
I felt a definite tension when, in 2000 the election between Gore and Bush hung in limbo for over a month. While I still feel like the election was stolen (exit polls are a good predictor of actual voting, and it has before 2000, generally been a very accurate measure of how elections have gone), I was relieved when the presidency was awarded to George Bush. That particular flavor of tension flared again, with Ohio in the next election.
While we, the USA still meet, in spirit, the 7(or 9) of the requirements of a democracy, we must safeguard our elections and keep the power out of the constant hands of either party.
Thank you,
Janet Johnson
reference:
Schmitter, P.C, and Karl, T.L., 1991, What democracy is... and is not, Journal of Democracy, National Endowment for Democracy and the Johns Hopkins University Press
Tuesday, June 10, 2008
Thursday, June 5, 2008
Tony Blair and his Legacy
The article that I decided to dissect is, “A Revised British Constitution: Tony Blair’s Lasting Legacy?” by Donley T. Studlar. Originally the article was a 1998 Taft Lecture to the Political Science Department of the University of Cincinnati. It was printed in the International Review, Spring 1999, and revised in November, 2006.
The article begins with a brief discussion on when Tony Blair will resign (June 27, 2007, according to CNN.Com) and a brief statement on the platform of constitutional proposals from which Tony Blair originally ran. These were as follows:
1. Devolution to Scotland and Wales
2. An elected mayor and council for London and potentially other urban areas
3. Removal of the voting rights of hereditary peers in the House of Lords
4. Incorporation of the European Convention on Human Rights into British Law
5. Electoral reform at various levels of government including a referendum on changing the electoral system for Members of Parliament.
The article was subdivided into six main points.
Traditional British Constitutional Principles is the first subheading. In this section, he describes a bit of British history and current design.
1. There are political elites in British government who give lip service to making the government less incestuous, but are loath to share power.
2. Simple voting majority of the House of Commons can change any law, including those rights of individuals. There is no “Bill of Rights”.
3. There is a sharing of power between the executive and legislative branches, the judicial branch has little to no power in the organization of the government.
4. Only Parliament guarantees civil liberties.
5. British government has been secretive and hides most of its’ workings.
6. Large cities do not elect mayors or governing councils.
Labor’s Constitutional Promises
This section discusses the goals of the constitutional proposals outlined above, mainly participatory British citizenship.
Developing a Program for Constitutional Change
This section tried to describe the position that the Labor party was in when it was decided that constitutional change was going to be its new agenda. Particularly, it points out that after losing four consecutive general elections, it decided to unite the groups in Brittan that were already interested in constitutional change.
Constitutional Change Under Labor
Under this section, he outlines how much of the goals outlined above were met and how that was achieved.
1. There are legislatures with devolved powers in Northern Ireland, Scotland, and Wales.
2. All of 92 hereditary peers have been removed from the House of Lords.
3. The European Convention on Human Rights has been incorporated into British law.
4. London has her own elected Mayor.
5. The Freedom of Information Act creates an independent Information Commissioner’s office and allows some public access, but it is still one of the most secretive governments in the democratic world.
6. There have been some changes in the electoral process, but not as much as was indicated when Mr. Blair was trying for the office.
In what was most likely an addition during a recent revision, there is a section on the joining of the United Kingdom with the European Union. UI law now supersedes British law, including judicial review by the European Court of Justice. Brittan still won’t adopt the Euro as its currency.
Last in this subsection is an subtle attack on the monarchy as outdated and elitist.
Conflicting Views on the Constitutional Changes
This is the section that I found most confusing. He attempts to describe the reaction of the British people to the reforms. Most of these reforms are more than five years old, and have been integrated into the British public.
Further Constitutional Changes on the Horizon?
In this section, he describes an England which is still adjusting to some of the broad changes made under Tony Blair. The Conservatives have now picked up the government and are trying to help Britain find the changes it likes and wants to keep and which should go aside. In addition, a larger issue of changing the electoral process is still in debate.
Thanks,
Janet Johnson
The article begins with a brief discussion on when Tony Blair will resign (June 27, 2007, according to CNN.Com) and a brief statement on the platform of constitutional proposals from which Tony Blair originally ran. These were as follows:
1. Devolution to Scotland and Wales
2. An elected mayor and council for London and potentially other urban areas
3. Removal of the voting rights of hereditary peers in the House of Lords
4. Incorporation of the European Convention on Human Rights into British Law
5. Electoral reform at various levels of government including a referendum on changing the electoral system for Members of Parliament.
The article was subdivided into six main points.
Traditional British Constitutional Principles is the first subheading. In this section, he describes a bit of British history and current design.
1. There are political elites in British government who give lip service to making the government less incestuous, but are loath to share power.
2. Simple voting majority of the House of Commons can change any law, including those rights of individuals. There is no “Bill of Rights”.
3. There is a sharing of power between the executive and legislative branches, the judicial branch has little to no power in the organization of the government.
4. Only Parliament guarantees civil liberties.
5. British government has been secretive and hides most of its’ workings.
6. Large cities do not elect mayors or governing councils.
Labor’s Constitutional Promises
This section discusses the goals of the constitutional proposals outlined above, mainly participatory British citizenship.
Developing a Program for Constitutional Change
This section tried to describe the position that the Labor party was in when it was decided that constitutional change was going to be its new agenda. Particularly, it points out that after losing four consecutive general elections, it decided to unite the groups in Brittan that were already interested in constitutional change.
Constitutional Change Under Labor
Under this section, he outlines how much of the goals outlined above were met and how that was achieved.
1. There are legislatures with devolved powers in Northern Ireland, Scotland, and Wales.
2. All of 92 hereditary peers have been removed from the House of Lords.
3. The European Convention on Human Rights has been incorporated into British law.
4. London has her own elected Mayor.
5. The Freedom of Information Act creates an independent Information Commissioner’s office and allows some public access, but it is still one of the most secretive governments in the democratic world.
6. There have been some changes in the electoral process, but not as much as was indicated when Mr. Blair was trying for the office.
In what was most likely an addition during a recent revision, there is a section on the joining of the United Kingdom with the European Union. UI law now supersedes British law, including judicial review by the European Court of Justice. Brittan still won’t adopt the Euro as its currency.
Last in this subsection is an subtle attack on the monarchy as outdated and elitist.
Conflicting Views on the Constitutional Changes
This is the section that I found most confusing. He attempts to describe the reaction of the British people to the reforms. Most of these reforms are more than five years old, and have been integrated into the British public.
Further Constitutional Changes on the Horizon?
In this section, he describes an England which is still adjusting to some of the broad changes made under Tony Blair. The Conservatives have now picked up the government and are trying to help Britain find the changes it likes and wants to keep and which should go aside. In addition, a larger issue of changing the electoral process is still in debate.
Thanks,
Janet Johnson
Monday, June 2, 2008
Trends in Globalization
Globalization from the Middle Ages Unitl Current
Janet Johnson
Global Socioeconomic Perspectives
Errol G. Palmer
June 1, 2008
Trends in Globalization from the Middle Ages Until Current
Summary:
Globalization means different things to different states. In the United States of America, it might mean that we have access to fresh strawberries year around, in Iran, it might mean that their leader has a higher level of accountability than ever before.(Douglass, J.A., Dec 2005), As globalization continues, quality of life and standards of living dramatically improves for all the countries involved. (Turri, A., Maniam, B. & Leavell, H., 2006). My research shows a trend toward more treaties and agreements exist between more states, covering more complex problems and that these treaties and agreements are employing more liberal and inventive methods for solving problems. (Harnecker, M, 2005). I will look at the trends in globalization from the Middle Ages until now, and I will try to prove, using economic success, desire for peace, and quality of life as the assumed goals, that interdependence is inevitable and will continue.
History of Globalization
The Middle Ages
During the Middle Ages, travel was a moderately uncomfortable and dangerous undertaking. However, travel in Europe, Africa, and Asia was common and the search for new commodities and new trade routes were often undertaken. (Macdonald, F, 1984) This growth continued until the Black Plague (1347-1349), which wiped out more than one third of Europe’s population. The economy and the trade didn’t fully restore itself until the early 1400’s. (Applied History Research Group, 1997)
Renaissance
By the 15th century many of the fruits and spices that are available now were starting to show up at town markets. Trade routes from the Middle Ages had resumed and because of new inventions and reliable maps, routes were increasing . (Burckhardt, 1878)
Christopher Columbus and other explorers discovered the Americas and all the riches that they brought (gold, new foods, spices, and land). The European states were expanding and colonizing, the desire for freedom and opportunity brought settlers to these new colonies. (Social Studies For Kids webpage)
The New World
By the time the United States of America was formed in 1776, worldwide trade was firmly established. Exotic food was available to those who could afford it. Fashion standards were becoming global. The Christianity crusades were slowing. Tobacco, food, textiles, and paper were being shipped out of the United States and tea, coffee, and textiles were being imported. (Social Studies for Kids webpage)
Discussion
There were treaties and agreements between heads of state, generally as the result of war. For instance, there was a peace settlement which consisted of a group of treaties called the Peace of Utrecht (1713) which was a result of the War of the Spanish Succession (1701-1714). (Viotti, P & Kauppi, M, 2009) This was not only to decide who controlled what land, and decide who won the war, but it also began commerce regulation (Gave British the sole right to slave trade in the Americas). (Microsoft Encarta, 2008)
This type of agreement became more common as conflicts erupted over rights to trade, and how to keep peace. (Viotti, P & Kauppi, M, 2009) The formation of Leagues and Groups became more formal. After World War I (1914-1918) the League of Nations and World Court was formed to help healing and keep world peace. This grouping of allies has continued until today, when diplomacy is a larger force in determining how states interact than even war.
Economic Success
My research has shown that increased globalization has a positive effect on economics. In order to show that globalization has a positive impact economically on the world overall and on individual states, I’ve looked at studies concerning the computer hardware and the cost of computers. (Turri, et al, 2006)
The major computer manufactures, Dell, HP, IBM, and Gateway outsourced their support help desks to lower the operating costs and the costs of the computers that have technical support as part of the product. India, who has a slowly recovering economy where over one third of it’s population still lives below the poverty level, provides 30 to 40 % of the computer industry’s software production. (Dunlop, J.E. & Velkoff, V.A., 1999) This lowers the cost of the computer and the operating costs of the company. With what is being called “follow the sun support”, having employees in all time zones so that companies can be productive twenty-four hours per day.
As the cost of the personal computer lowers, the impact on the United States’ job market might be called into question. Research done by Arora & Gambardella (2005) were reported to have concluded that “although export-oriented software activities have been completed in countries outside of the United Sates, they are complementary to activities which are still being completed inside of the United States and typically at a lower level such as product support and maintenance rather than initial product development. (Turri et al, 2006)
Globalization will continue to increase competition in the technology and other marketplaces. Stronger competition, more access to higher education, less expensive base materials, and cheaper unskilled labor: all of this will bring the cost of products down and the quality of the products available continually higher.
War and Peace
When individual states enter into the different treaties and agreements with other countries, their continued peace becomes more certain. Since the inception of the United Nations peacekeepers in 1945, the multinational organizations have become central to preserving peace and preventing war.
According to the United Nations’ own records, the peacekeeping missions are strategic in keeping military action from occurring. Having over eighty-five thousand uniformed personnel, highly trained and from a variety of countries, the United Nations peacekeepers are effective in maintaining order when called upon to do so.
According to the U.N. Charter, Article 4, Chapter 2:
"Membership in the United Nations is open to all other peace-loving states which accept the obligations contained in the present Charter and, in the judgment of the Organization, are able and willing to carry out these obligations.The admission of any such state to membership in the United Nations will be effected by a decision of the General Assembly upon the recommendation of the Security Council."
There are 192, including the recent addition of the state of Montenegro, member states currently in the United Nations, including almost all recognized independent states.
Quality of Life
As trade increases and negotiations bring about more fair trade practices, quality of life improves for those at all economic strata. I will look at the history of the coffee bean farmer and the growth of the Fair Trade Coffee branding to give an example of how increased globalization can improve quality of life.
The primary goal of the Fair Trade movement has been to only use coffee from coffee farmers (who are generally small holders) that get a fair price for their harvests in order to achieve a decent living wage. Fair Trade was designed independently of any government as a watchdog group for consumers who wish to be aware of the impact of their purchase.
Coffee farming has been an traditional way of life for many in South America, Asia, Latin America, and the Caribbean. With coffee getting as low as fifty cents per pound from the small farmer, the gourmet coffee industry has enormous profits. Without organized multinational oversight, the coffee farmer is left out of the profit increase. The Fair Trade movement is simply a branding that allows the consumer to know that this product bought at a fair price from the farmer.
The existence of an independently organized group like Fair Trade is evidence that in time, increased globalization will stop the “sweatshops” of some countries. People with choices are often willing to pay more for quality products which don’t exploit any given group.
Conclusion
The research on the history of globalization shows how increasingly complex agreements regarding trade and war have brought about a more peaceful planet. The improved economic success of the participating states, the decrease in armed conflicts, and the improved living conditions for the middle classes and the impoverished would make it extremely unlikely that globalization would decrease.
References
Applied History Research Group, (1997), The end of Europe’s middle ages, University of Calgary.
Burckhardt, Jacob, (1878), The civilization of the renaissance in Italy, the state as a work of art, foreign policy, translated by Middlemore, S.G.C. in 1878, searched on June 1, 2008, http://www.idbsu.edu/courses/hy309/docs/burckhardt/1-8.html
Douglass, J.A., (Dec 2005), How all globalization is local: countervailing forces and their
influence on higher education markets, Higher Education Policy, Houndmills, vol
18, iss 4, pg 445, retrieved from the ProQuest database on May 19, 2008
Dunlop, J.E. & Velkoff, V.A.,(January 1999) Women and the economy in India, U.S.
Department of Commerce Economics and Statistics Administration, Women of the
World, December 3, 1998
Fair Trade Website, 2008, http://www.globalexchange.org/ campaigns/fairtrade/coffee/background.html
Harnecker, M, (Apr 2005), On leftist strategy, Science & Society, New York, vol 69, iss 2,
pg 142, 11 pgs, retrieved from the ProQuest database on May 19, 2008
Macdonald, Fiona. The Middle Ages. Silver Burdett Company. London. 1984.
Microsoft® Encarta® Online Encyclopedia 2008, Peace of Utrecht,
http://encarta.msn.com © 1997-2008 Microsoft Corporation. All Rights Reserved.
Social Studies For Kids, Thirteen American colonies, searched on June 2, 2008, http://www.socialstudiesforkids.com/articles/ushistory/13colonies1.htm
Turri, A., Maniam, B. & Leavell, H., (December 2006), Globalization: the good, bad and
ugly, The Business review, Cambridge, Vol. 6, Iss. 1, pg. 31, 7 pgs, retrieved from
the ProQuest database on May 19, 2008
The United Nations Website, searched on June 1, 2008
Viotti, P.R. & Kauppi, M. V.,(2009), Pearson Education, Inc. New Jersey
Janet Johnson
Global Socioeconomic Perspectives
Errol G. Palmer
June 1, 2008
Trends in Globalization from the Middle Ages Until Current
Summary:
Globalization means different things to different states. In the United States of America, it might mean that we have access to fresh strawberries year around, in Iran, it might mean that their leader has a higher level of accountability than ever before.(Douglass, J.A., Dec 2005), As globalization continues, quality of life and standards of living dramatically improves for all the countries involved. (Turri, A., Maniam, B. & Leavell, H., 2006). My research shows a trend toward more treaties and agreements exist between more states, covering more complex problems and that these treaties and agreements are employing more liberal and inventive methods for solving problems. (Harnecker, M, 2005). I will look at the trends in globalization from the Middle Ages until now, and I will try to prove, using economic success, desire for peace, and quality of life as the assumed goals, that interdependence is inevitable and will continue.
History of Globalization
The Middle Ages
During the Middle Ages, travel was a moderately uncomfortable and dangerous undertaking. However, travel in Europe, Africa, and Asia was common and the search for new commodities and new trade routes were often undertaken. (Macdonald, F, 1984) This growth continued until the Black Plague (1347-1349), which wiped out more than one third of Europe’s population. The economy and the trade didn’t fully restore itself until the early 1400’s. (Applied History Research Group, 1997)
Renaissance
By the 15th century many of the fruits and spices that are available now were starting to show up at town markets. Trade routes from the Middle Ages had resumed and because of new inventions and reliable maps, routes were increasing . (Burckhardt, 1878)
Christopher Columbus and other explorers discovered the Americas and all the riches that they brought (gold, new foods, spices, and land). The European states were expanding and colonizing, the desire for freedom and opportunity brought settlers to these new colonies. (Social Studies For Kids webpage)
The New World
By the time the United States of America was formed in 1776, worldwide trade was firmly established. Exotic food was available to those who could afford it. Fashion standards were becoming global. The Christianity crusades were slowing. Tobacco, food, textiles, and paper were being shipped out of the United States and tea, coffee, and textiles were being imported. (Social Studies for Kids webpage)
Discussion
There were treaties and agreements between heads of state, generally as the result of war. For instance, there was a peace settlement which consisted of a group of treaties called the Peace of Utrecht (1713) which was a result of the War of the Spanish Succession (1701-1714). (Viotti, P & Kauppi, M, 2009) This was not only to decide who controlled what land, and decide who won the war, but it also began commerce regulation (Gave British the sole right to slave trade in the Americas). (Microsoft Encarta, 2008)
This type of agreement became more common as conflicts erupted over rights to trade, and how to keep peace. (Viotti, P & Kauppi, M, 2009) The formation of Leagues and Groups became more formal. After World War I (1914-1918) the League of Nations and World Court was formed to help healing and keep world peace. This grouping of allies has continued until today, when diplomacy is a larger force in determining how states interact than even war.
Economic Success
My research has shown that increased globalization has a positive effect on economics. In order to show that globalization has a positive impact economically on the world overall and on individual states, I’ve looked at studies concerning the computer hardware and the cost of computers. (Turri, et al, 2006)
The major computer manufactures, Dell, HP, IBM, and Gateway outsourced their support help desks to lower the operating costs and the costs of the computers that have technical support as part of the product. India, who has a slowly recovering economy where over one third of it’s population still lives below the poverty level, provides 30 to 40 % of the computer industry’s software production. (Dunlop, J.E. & Velkoff, V.A., 1999) This lowers the cost of the computer and the operating costs of the company. With what is being called “follow the sun support”, having employees in all time zones so that companies can be productive twenty-four hours per day.
As the cost of the personal computer lowers, the impact on the United States’ job market might be called into question. Research done by Arora & Gambardella (2005) were reported to have concluded that “although export-oriented software activities have been completed in countries outside of the United Sates, they are complementary to activities which are still being completed inside of the United States and typically at a lower level such as product support and maintenance rather than initial product development. (Turri et al, 2006)
Globalization will continue to increase competition in the technology and other marketplaces. Stronger competition, more access to higher education, less expensive base materials, and cheaper unskilled labor: all of this will bring the cost of products down and the quality of the products available continually higher.
War and Peace
When individual states enter into the different treaties and agreements with other countries, their continued peace becomes more certain. Since the inception of the United Nations peacekeepers in 1945, the multinational organizations have become central to preserving peace and preventing war.
According to the United Nations’ own records, the peacekeeping missions are strategic in keeping military action from occurring. Having over eighty-five thousand uniformed personnel, highly trained and from a variety of countries, the United Nations peacekeepers are effective in maintaining order when called upon to do so.
According to the U.N. Charter, Article 4, Chapter 2:
"Membership in the United Nations is open to all other peace-loving states which accept the obligations contained in the present Charter and, in the judgment of the Organization, are able and willing to carry out these obligations.The admission of any such state to membership in the United Nations will be effected by a decision of the General Assembly upon the recommendation of the Security Council."
There are 192, including the recent addition of the state of Montenegro, member states currently in the United Nations, including almost all recognized independent states.
Quality of Life
As trade increases and negotiations bring about more fair trade practices, quality of life improves for those at all economic strata. I will look at the history of the coffee bean farmer and the growth of the Fair Trade Coffee branding to give an example of how increased globalization can improve quality of life.
The primary goal of the Fair Trade movement has been to only use coffee from coffee farmers (who are generally small holders) that get a fair price for their harvests in order to achieve a decent living wage. Fair Trade was designed independently of any government as a watchdog group for consumers who wish to be aware of the impact of their purchase.
Coffee farming has been an traditional way of life for many in South America, Asia, Latin America, and the Caribbean. With coffee getting as low as fifty cents per pound from the small farmer, the gourmet coffee industry has enormous profits. Without organized multinational oversight, the coffee farmer is left out of the profit increase. The Fair Trade movement is simply a branding that allows the consumer to know that this product bought at a fair price from the farmer.
The existence of an independently organized group like Fair Trade is evidence that in time, increased globalization will stop the “sweatshops” of some countries. People with choices are often willing to pay more for quality products which don’t exploit any given group.
Conclusion
The research on the history of globalization shows how increasingly complex agreements regarding trade and war have brought about a more peaceful planet. The improved economic success of the participating states, the decrease in armed conflicts, and the improved living conditions for the middle classes and the impoverished would make it extremely unlikely that globalization would decrease.
References
Applied History Research Group, (1997), The end of Europe’s middle ages, University of Calgary.
Burckhardt, Jacob, (1878), The civilization of the renaissance in Italy, the state as a work of art, foreign policy, translated by Middlemore, S.G.C. in 1878, searched on June 1, 2008, http://www.idbsu.edu/courses/hy309/docs/burckhardt/1-8.html
Douglass, J.A., (Dec 2005), How all globalization is local: countervailing forces and their
influence on higher education markets, Higher Education Policy, Houndmills, vol
18, iss 4, pg 445, retrieved from the ProQuest database on May 19, 2008
Dunlop, J.E. & Velkoff, V.A.,(January 1999) Women and the economy in India, U.S.
Department of Commerce Economics and Statistics Administration, Women of the
World, December 3, 1998
Fair Trade Website, 2008, http://www.globalexchange.org/ campaigns/fairtrade/coffee/background.html
Harnecker, M, (Apr 2005), On leftist strategy, Science & Society, New York, vol 69, iss 2,
pg 142, 11 pgs, retrieved from the ProQuest database on May 19, 2008
Macdonald, Fiona. The Middle Ages. Silver Burdett Company. London. 1984.
Microsoft® Encarta® Online Encyclopedia 2008, Peace of Utrecht,
http://encarta.msn.com © 1997-2008 Microsoft Corporation. All Rights Reserved.
Social Studies For Kids, Thirteen American colonies, searched on June 2, 2008, http://www.socialstudiesforkids.com/articles/ushistory/13colonies1.htm
Turri, A., Maniam, B. & Leavell, H., (December 2006), Globalization: the good, bad and
ugly, The Business review, Cambridge, Vol. 6, Iss. 1, pg. 31, 7 pgs, retrieved from
the ProQuest database on May 19, 2008
The United Nations Website, searched on June 1, 2008
Viotti, P.R. & Kauppi, M. V.,(2009), Pearson Education, Inc. New Jersey
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