The American System

At the April 2nd discussion we compared our understandings of how democracies work and speculated as to if ours even does. We spent some time fleshing out the mechanics of parliamentary systems and measured them against the three-branch approach of the United States. Several viewed elements such as coalition building and ministerial accountability as positives of the old world structures. Concepts like Prime Minister's questions and votes of no confidence seem especially appealing these days. The American way was deemed not without merit however. For instance our federal system helps to disperse power and promote political balance.

Although our Constitution was praised not all of us were pleased by its implementation. Government debt, the influence of money, the parceling out of our nation to the highest bidder were all causing the founders "to be turning in there graves". We looked at the contradiction of their behavior and the ideals they espoused. Those ideals were alternately seen as promises to be kept by future generations. We also debated the evolution of the two party system and the viability of independents and third parties. And we even considered alternative voting systems.

All in all it was lively discussion that barely scratched the surface. We ended the talk itching to keep scratching. So we'll continue this exploration at our next event. Are the three branches still in balance? Are federal and state powers divided appropriately? Has gerrymandering solidified a political divide? What aspects of governance would you like to debate? Debate we shall, Sunday the 16th, 3 PM at the City Café.