Liberal democracy and Political Participation Essay

Liberal democracy and Political Participation - Essay ExampleOther governmental scientists state that democracy is only a structure and is non individual participation. (Budge 1996)Political participation in the process has great influence on the development of everybodys character. It is known that political participation is the key to the transformation of citizenry from individual (private) to citizen (public). But it can be noticed that political participation must not be only defensive and protective measure against the political system. (Bruce 1923)There are m any definition of liberal democracy. virtuoso of them states that liberal democracy is a form of voice democracy, where the ability of elected representative to exercise decision-making power is subject to the rule of law. Liberal democracy is also subjected to constitution the main points of which are defense of human rights and freedoms. It also involves trade protection of minority groups.It can be admitted that r ights and freedoms involve such categories as private property, equality before the law, privacy, etc. These rights are also called liberal rights. They are guaranteed by statutory or constitutional laws. (Gibson 2000)Liberal democracy involves also tolerance and pluralism. Different political and social views, extreme fringes can co-exist in liberal democracy. One more characteristic of liberal democracy is election, which give political parties the opportunity to obtain political power and to realize their political program in society.The following(a) point to be discussed is specific rights and freedoms which enable citizens to participate in the liberal process. These rights are considered to be essential part of liberal democracy and its functioning. (Norris 2000)Among the close ordinary rights it is possible to mention the following the right to life an to secured, freedom of movement, freedom from slavery, freedom of speech and press, freedom of education and religion, fre edom of assembly, independent judiciary. But in practice all rights have restrictions and limits, such as copyright and libel. Some limits relate to anti-democratic speeches and undervaluation of human rights. The explanation of these restrictions is that they guarantee the performance of liberal democracy and freedoms. (Budge 1996)The most disputable are the freedom of speech and freedom of press. Freedom of speech is always considered as integral part of liberal democracy in the red-brick world. It is guaranteed by the Declaration of Human Rights. Freedom of speech is understood to protect any act of seeking, receiving and imparting information or ideas, regardless of the medium employ. (Norris 2000)It is one of the possible an favourable means of potical participation, because due to this freedom it is possible to discuss different thoughts and to get clear idea about some any process in liberal democracy. Individuals can express their thoughts