The more democracy, the less contestation4 reading minutes

Le Regard Libre N° 85 - Enzo Santacroce

Dossier «Switzerland, definition»

Challenging seems to be the hallmark of democracy. Taking the floor to express an opinion contrary to that of others is an act perceived as fundamental in a political system based on freedom of expression fully integrated into mentalities and mores. However, a closer analysis shows that free speech is not enough to build a democracy. To be complete, it must be equipped with instruments whose role is to provide a framework for popular demands. A brief comparison between Switzerland and France shows that argumentation, rather than debate, is the cement of liberal democracy - in the sense of a democracy based on reason.

Dans une démocratie, on part du principe que les citoyens participent à l’histoire de leur pays en votant sur des ob