Question

How has the United States not upheld one of the twelve principles of democracy. Use a current event example​

Answer 1

The U.S. faces challenges upholding its democratic principles, evidenced by a two-party system potentially limiting political diversity, public disenchantment, and a global decline in democracy. Nevertheless, civil rights movements and activism provide avenues for participation and potential change in civic life.

Step-by-step explanation:

When we consider how well America is living up to the ideals and principles established at its founding, the assessment is complex and nuanced. While the United States has often stood as a model of democratic principles such as liberty, equality, and justice, its adherence to these values has been inconsistent. Recent events highlight areas where improvement is needed. For example, the United States, as pointed out by scholars like Laura Nader, has faced criticism for a two-party system that potentially limits political diversity and suppresses alternative voices. This can be seen as a deviation from the ideal of representative democracy.

Additionally, the U.S. has experienced public disenchantment with its government, similar to trends observed globally. This suggests that the legislative branch has had challenges impressing its electorate, which points towards a struggle to fulfill democratic expectations. In the context of individual freedoms, while Americans actively protest social injustice, advocating for enhanced democratic participation, the overall global trend tracked by Freedom House indicates a decline in individual liberty and democracy. The U.S. is not exempt from this trend, revealing inconsistencies in upholding democratic principles such as the protection of minority rights and the equal treatment of citizens.

Through civil rights movements and more recent social justice activism, there is a clear path to participation in civic life. However, barriers to this participation could potentially infringe upon democratic ideals. The involvement in self-government raises questions as to why some individuals participate more than others and how effective various forms of activism are in creating change.

Answer 2

Universalism and fairness refer to the possibility of both institutions and citizens being biased, and the need to prohibit all kinds of discrimination. This principle, in an era when the Black Lives Matter movement shows the systematic discrimination African Americans suffer, is far from being honored.

Step-by-step explanation:

The twelve principles of democracy are:

The principle of legitimacy.

The principle of periodical elections and terms of office.

The principle of majority and collective decisions.

The principle of division of powers, checks and balances, and limited competence of institutions.

The principle of the rule of law and independent courts.

The principle of constitutionalism and judicial review.

The principle of litigation.

The principle of due process.

The principle of civic rights.

The principle of law enforcement.

The principle of universalism and fairness.

The principle of open communication.