Final answer:
The democratic principles sought after in South America include sovereignty, equality, and liberty, as these ideals are foundational to democratic governance and the protection of human rights. Balancing liberty and equality is key to preserving a harmonious society, and these concepts, together with justice, have been at the core of democratic aspirations in the region.
Step-by-step explanation:
The democratic principles sought after by the people fighting for democracy in South America include sovereignty, equality, and liberty. These principles are essential to establishing a democratic society where citizens have the power to govern themselves (sovereignty), where all individuals are treated as equals under the law (equality), and where they have the freedom to act, speak, and think without undue external restraint (liberty).
In the broader context, the balance between liberty and equality is a common challenge in democratic societies; ensuring one does not impinge on the other is crucial for a harmonious and fair society. Democracies also strive to administer justice, which implies that everyone receives equal protection and the same set of rules applies to all individuals. The quest for these democratic principles is often driven by the desire to create a government that reflects the will of the people and preserves basic human rights and freedoms.
Historically, the theme of the French Revolution was "Liberty, Equality, Fraternity," and it highlights the important democratic ideals that have also influenced movements in South America. Similarly, democratic movements in South America have evolved from these early ideals to include respect for human rights, a transparent and accountable ruling system, and the pursuit of social justice. In balancing these ideals, political scientists often consider the necessary tradeoffs to ensure a well-functioning democratic society.