"There is nothing new under the sun..." -WS
 

Democracy
The destruction of a democratic society is woven into the very fabric of its essence. This is not to say it is a doomed institution, but rather, that these freedoms are what make it great. However, because these freedoms exist, a future can be envisioned where the final vote is cast, that ends all votes.

As with any self-sustaining force, democracy is dependent on its individual components (us) for survival. We, as members of a democratic society, are charged with its upkeep and continuation. This requires us to maintain a constant inventory of what it means to live in freedom, and act accordingly, or see it dissolve.

There are many issues that imperil the health of our society, but of greater consequence is how we choose to respond to them.

Democratic rights and freedoms are often willingly eroded or even erased in the name of security, protection and comfort.

•  We are fearful of crime, so we allow the enforcement of law to outweigh the importance of individual rights.

• We are intolerant of other viewpoints or lifestyles, so we pass laws to stunt them, thus stunting our own potential.

 
Crime
While it is true that we live in a dangerous world, it is imperative that we remember the importance of individual rights. If it becomes too easy for enforcement officials to arrest and convict, there is an inherent danger that all of us can and will be arrested for something.
If this trend continues we are doomed to become a society of the jailed and the jailers.
 

Tolerance
Our individual freedoms allow us to express ourselves, and enjoy a lifestyle of our own choosing, as long as it doesn't interfere with another's right to do the same. We don't have to, nor do we all subscribe to the same morals and values. Life can be difficult. If one is able to glean momentary pleasure from an experience that doesn't deprive another of having their own such moments, they shouldn't be denied. It is wrong and unjust to prevent others from pursuing happiness in their own fashion. Even when it conflicts with our own sensibilities. We are all faced with the same general struggles of day to day living, and we all have our own way of dealing with them. It is this diversity that makes us stronger as a whole.

If we mind our own affairs, and are nice to each other, our society will prosper.
* live and let live *

 

"Don’t steal. If you must steal, steal only from those who can afford it "