Do political parties harm democracy?

[FlamesAddiction]

I am beginning to really wonder if the institution of having political parties does more harm than good. Looking at the U.S. election and Canada's recent federal election, I have come to the conclusion that people get so wrapped up in supporting a party or faction, the issues are often not even looked at, and nothing can change their mind because they will stick with their party regardless. In the end, I feel it is nothing more than marketing, image, and catch phrases that people are voting for.

Is there an altenative?

[Hack&Lube]

Yes they harm democracy but there is no choice.

Politics is often referred to as the "Science of the Possible". Countries are just so vast and diverse, that in order to get anything done, you have to build coalitions or find the medium upon which all people agree on if you are intent on ruling by democracy. The only way to channel that power is through parties.

Otherwise you get rule of the mobs, anarchy, or chaos.

[Cowperson]

Originally posted by Hack&Lube@Nov 4 2004, 02:22 AM
Yes they harm democracy but there is no choice.

Politics is often referred to as the "Science of the Possible". Countries are just so vast and diverse, that in order to get anything done, you have to build coalitions or find the medium upon which all people agree on if you are intent on ruling by democracy. The only way to channel that power is through parties.

Otherwise you get rule of the mobs, anarchy, or chaos.

In Iraq, the USA State Department is advising non-secular political parties to gather together in a coalition just as secular parties, including radical cleric Mucky al-Sadr, are gathering themselves together for power in the coming election as well.

Right or wrong, its an indication of a basic premise wherever you might be - there's safety in numbers. Or power in numbers.

Theoretically, that should mean compromise on some level for those trying to gather together.

Cowperson