For a large nation-state to have a thriving democracy, five key conditions must be met . First among these is an educated electorate and a wise "learned aristocracy." To paraphrase Plato , an educated electorate is essential for a democracy chiefly because it is called upon to entrust candidates for office with power and at times is called upon to make decisions directly. It is imperative that the body politic be informed and not respond to the …showed first 75 words of 578 total…

…showed last 75 words of 578 total…assured rights for the people. Many South American "democracies" teeter on the brink of dictatorship because they simply don't respect the people, they show this by not honoring basic human rights. America presently satisfies these essential elements of democracy. Although education of the polity is even more important today because of the creeping problem of deTocquevilleís "soft despotism." Rights must be maintained over comfort and privilege. A silk glove can hide an iron hand.