Global Integration

3 Pages 845 Words

America’s Political System

The United States of America is considered to be a land where freedom reigns and all persons in this land are afforded equal opportunities in every facet of life. Such liberties exist because this country adheres to democratic ideals. America may not fit exactly into Aristotle’s definition of democracy, ‘the rule of the many’, but it is no less democratic in that the people are represented by authoritative figures whom they elected. The word democracy is used here as a theory characteristic of those nations who choose to follow its principles. Democracy is also one of the five elements of America’s political system, the other four being liberty, equality, civic duty, and individual responsibility. Each of these five components significantly shape the intricacies of how this country operates on a daily basis, and are integral to preserving the freedom provided by it. To single out any of these elements would throw off the balance created by the composition of them. Despite this, it is my opinion that liberty, equality, and democracy are imperative to American life and the individuals living in this great country.
Liberty has many definitions, varying in regards to the manner in which the word is used. However, each definition is overshadowed by a pervasive theme of freedom of choice. In reference to America’s political system, liberty is critically fundamental. American people hold their liberties in high esteem, with the conviction that they should have the capacity to do as they please, on the sole condition that no one gets hurt. Liberty has always been one of the core building blocks upon which this country stands, and it remains so today. With liberty, each individual is responsible for the consequences of their actions. It is only logical to take the position that, knowledgeable of the cause and effect of one’s actions, that person will act in a manner conducive to the i...