If we are to build grassroots respect for the institutions and processes that constitute democracy, the state must treat its citizens as real citizens rather than as subjects.
Sentiment: NEGATIVE
If we are to perpetuate the state, we must not only produce citizens, but good citizens - men and women of sound bodies, clear minds and clean souls.
Democracy functions best when we have an active citizenry.
We must create a state that responds to the citizens' needs, and we need citizens who feel committed to their state because that state serves the citizens.
Anyone who wants to be part of the political process should adopt values that are compatible with democracy.
What should be targeted is a concept of organic, and not just mechanic, democracy that preserves the rule of law, separation of powers, and that is participatory and pluralistic.
As a citizen, you need to know how to be a part of it, how to express yourself - and not just by voting.
Democracy doesn't require a whole lot of work of its citizens, but it requires some: It requires taking a good look outside once in a while, and considering the bad news and what it might mean, and making the occasional tough choice, and soberly taking stock of what your real interests are.
In addition, as citizens, we must fight in their incipient stages all movements by government or party or pressure groups that seek to limit the legitimate liberties of any of our fellow citizens.
In a democracy, citizens pass judgment on their government, and if they are kept in the dark about what their government is doing, they cannot be in a position to make well-grounded decisions.
A constitutional democracy is in serious trouble if its citizenry does not have a certain degree of education and civic virtue.
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