I have heard a different version of Democracy. Democracy is off the people, far (from) the people and (where they) buy the people. Why don’t we accept that?

What does the term democracy mean?

Read the following phrases and comment on the thoughts given:

1. Democracy gives every man the right to be his own oppressor.
2. Democracy consists of choosing your dictators after they’ve told you what you think it is you want to hear.
3. Man’s capacity for justice makes democracy possible, but man’s inclination to injustice makes democracy necessary.
4. Democracy is a device that ensures we shall be governed no better than we deserve.
5. All the ills of democracy can be cured by more democracy.

This cartoon was drawn when elections were held in Iraq with the presence of the US and other foreign powers.

a) What do you think this cartoon is saying?

b) Why is ‘democracy’ written the way it is?

This picture is symbolising Syria, which is a small West Asian country. The ruling Baath Party and some of its small allies are the only parties allowed in that country.

• Do you think this cartoon could apply to China or Mexico?
• What does the crown of leaves on democracy signify?

This cartoon was drawn to symbolise the event of Latin America.

• Do you think it applies to the Pakistani situation as well?
• Think of other countries where this could apply?
• Does this sometimes happen in our country as well?

Answer the following questions:

a) Is democracy all about rulers and governments?

b) Can we talk about a democratic classroom?

c) Or a democratic family?

This cartoon was titled ‘Building Democracy’ and was first published in a Latin American publication.

a) What do moneybags signify here?

b) Could this cartoon be applied to India?

This cartoon is about the Iraqi election held after Saddam Hussein’s regime was overthrown. He is shown behind the bars.

What is the cartoonist saying here?