Sunday, May 29, 2011

Understanding democracy

In a democracy, the primary talent of the ruler is winning elections. This explains why, although winning politicians are more clever than the average citizen, they are not significantly better at governing. This also explains why juries are wiser than one would expect.

Failures of American government are failures of American citizens. We get what we deserve.

We should try drafting our political candidates by lottery, then elect from this pool after a traditional campaign. We can start with a State House and see what happens.

See also:

Update: Ok, could we at least insist on licensing exams for Senators and Representatives? We license barbers for Pete's sake ...

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