Final answer:
Buckley argues that a lack of complaining corresponds to a lack of political engagement, and emphasizes the importance of citizen engagement and political participation as foundations for a responsive and effective government. He suggests that not participating in civic duties such as voting, relinquishes the right to complain about government decisions.
Step-by-step explanation:
Buckley argues that there is a direct relationship between our failure to complain and our disregard for being politically active or caring about politics. This relationship is based upon the concept that being a responsible citizen requires a commitment to be civically engaged, and that the quality of our democracy and government depends highly on such citizen engagement. Without voicing our concerns or participating in the political process, such as voting, we essentially give up our right to complain about government decisions, as we have not utilized our most fundamental method of influence.
Buckley attempts to convince us of this relationship by pointing out that political participation and voter engagement are crucial to a democracy, with the idea that an individual's action, such as voting, contributes to collective representation. He highlights the irony of successful governance, noting that when government functions well and citizens take it for granted, they become complacent, which could potentially lead to governance failure.
The notion that one's failure to participate in civic duties means they forgo their right to complain is further emphasized by discussing the responsibilities of citizenship. He underscores that a government with integrity and policies reflecting public interest doesn't just happen automatically; it requires informed citizens to actively work and push for these changes. Therefore, not only is there a relationship between complaint and care, but there is also a deeper connection to the efficacy of policy changes and conservation efforts. Buckley suggests that individual efforts are vital and that criticisms about the ineffectiveness of personal actions should be met with reminders of our own responsibility in the challenges we face as a society and a planet.