The Importance of Political Forces in a Democracy
The Role of Political Parties
Political forces are essential for a functioning democracy. Professor Huber highlights the vital role of political parties, stating that they are the “oil that lubricates the wheels of democratic machinery.” Without political parties to nominate candidates and lead discussions on important issues, public life would be significantly impoverished.
Although political parties are not the only political force, they are crucial for understanding the concept of democracy, which emphasizes power vested in the people (Greek demos = people, kratos = power).
Diversity and Consensus
Professor Nogueira emphasizes that a political society thrives on the diversity of its members, balancing consensus and disagreement. A multitude of interests exists within any community. The presence of diverse political forces that respect democratic principles allows for development by requiring consensus-building to influence policy decisions.
It’s important to remember that various political forces, both formal and informal, flourish under democratic regimes, where they can influence policy decisions and drive political activity.
The Importance of Compromise
The theoretical discrepancies among various actors necessitate compromise to achieve practical consensus. Without these compromises, democracy would not exist, and the common good would be unattainable. Instead, a system where a single ruler governs according to their own beliefs would prevail, resembling an autocracy.
Professor Nogueira summarizes this by saying, “Democracy is based and developed from concessions on human rights and democratic rules, as well as through the gap and the resulting conflict over goals or means to achieve them.” Respecting the fundamental basis of human values and rights, political forces make life in a democracy possible.
The Electorate and Suffrage
The Purpose of Voting
Representative democracy limits the electorate to choosing representatives through voting. When people are chosen, a choice is made. When a decision is adopted or a feeling is expressed through voting, it becomes a vote.
The franchise has several objectives:
- To legitimize the representation of citizens.
- To ascertain the will of the electorate.
- To configure, through election outcomes, an image of national sentiment.
- To gain explicit consent from citizens for the implementation of laws and constitutional rules.
- To resolve issues through consultations (referendums, plebiscites).
Some argue that the electorate is more than just a group of voters; it’s a state body whose role is to choose, think, and decide. Therefore, voting becomes a public function or a political allocation.
The Right to Vote
According to rationalist and individualist philosophy, voting is a right inherent to the human person. However, this view is an oversimplification, as the right to vote depends on the existing political organization and fulfilling specific requirements.
Conditions for Voting
The right to vote is not inherent but requires certain conditions:
- Nationality (Chapter II, Article 10, 11, 12 CPR)
- Residence: A period of residency within the constituency is required.
- Age: The age requirement has evolved over time.
- Capacity: Individuals must possess a minimum level of rationality.
- Dignity: Those accused or convicted of serious crimes may not vote.
- Pre-Registration
Characteristics of Suffrage
- Personal: Voters must express their own will.
- Mandatory or Optional: Depending on the legal framework.
- Secret
- Free: Free from corruption or bribery.
- Universal: Opposed to restricted suffrage based on property or income.
- Egalitarian: All votes are equal in principle, although this can be constrained in practice by population distribution.