Democracy and defiance

Democracy and defiance

From Suara Karya

Many politicians may consider democracy to consist only of differing opinions, hence some party executives defy decisions handed down by their principal organization.

The actual meaning of democracy is, of course, people's sovereignty, which allows dissent within society. In this case, three elements of disagreement are involved.

First is the thesis or opinion factor; second, the antithesis or counteropinion factor; and third, the synthesis factor. This means that when the party adopts a final decision, there should be no more dissent. This is moderate democracy.

If the disagreement continues, defiance and internal rifts develop. The best solution is the withdrawal of dissenting groups or the establishment of new parties. This is liberal democracy, which is not suited to the nation's peace-loving character.

HARIYANTO IMADHA Bojonegoro, East Java