America is a country of infinite possibilities, yet the alchemy of power politics always diluted our inherent spirit and vitality. Ever since I started reading and observing on our political system, I was equally fascinated and disillusioned about the destiny of our country which has witnessed many ups and downs. My interest in pursuit of a better system of governance for America leads me to the complex problems that the people face world over and the sheer apathy of our political class towards it. I sadly understood that even though democracy is a relatively better system of governance, the complex mosaic of interactions between the ruling elite and the people continue to shape the future landscape of this democracy. Many aspects of our society are still puzzling and paradoxical. The book indeed reflects my ideas in pursuit of a better world.
The book is a manifestation of a series of profoundly significant issues which have haunted me beyond the boundaries of nation and geography. The book addresses a variety of issues including politics, economics, governance, security, culture and religion. In my modest attempt to explore the issues that affect our political system and culture, I relied more on my personal experiences rather than academic research or enquiry. The book is principally political though it touches upon other aspects as well. There may be enormous gaps in the arguments presented. I can only provide snapshots of our politics, economy and culture. But I was dispassionate in analyzing the context and people and throughout this book you can find that I am passionate only about the future of real democracy and governance across the world.
The present book has endeavored to make a strong case for participatory democracy or direct democracy in which people lead the governance and not the other way. I think the House of Assembly with its focus on the people will answer our quest for social justice, freedom and equality.
In the era of globalization, addressing inequality and alienation of citizens from decision making process requires a multifaceted normative and policy approach that puts human beings at the center of politics. I strongly feel that the Manifesto is a viable answer. It is socially sustainable in reducing poverty and inequality. It is culturally sustainable in protecting pluralism, diversity and values and at the same time alienates religion from politics. It is politically sustainable as it deepens democracy, ensure transparency and accountability.
At present, we need a vision and mission to herald a new path towards this direction. We have leaders, ideas and organization. We have not yet created a platform for action. Thus, we need a strong and responsive civil society which is capable to overcome its structural impotency and augment its authority through positive interventions for securing a governance system based on real representation. Success of this strategy needs consensus among the people to foster the path towards prosperity, freedom, inclusion and participation. The future of our country and the world largely depends on this harmony.
The world today is at a cross roads. If the vision of a shared future is to be carried forward, we must seize every opportunity to take bold and decisive action to reverse the dominant trends in DRAFT 197 governance engulfed by corruption and authoritarianism. The manifesto of real representation, hence, affirms the need to define the world in terms of its essential humanity and not solely in terms of the interests of the ruling elites.
Lastly, but not least, I would like to express my deep concern for the common people and their genuine problems through this book in which my love towards real representation may perhaps be revealed…..