Question

Despite claims to the contrary, political leaders frequently look to public-opinion surveys to stay in touch with shifts in popular sentiment. This raises questions about whether leaders should "lead" even when their decisions are inconsistent with what a majority of Americans claim to want, or whether they should heed the will of the majority. Which of these views would the framers of the Constitution support? Which of these views is more appropriate for a politician in a democracy?

Answer 1

Answer and Explanation:

1. The authors of the constitution would support that the leaders respond to the request of the population, as long as this was a rational request and in accordance with the government's objectives to create a strong nation. In that case, other government leaders, who represent the people, would assess what would be the best method of conduct for the president to act, taking into account progress and social, political and economic well-being.

2. Democracy claims that all of a nation's political power comes from the people. Thus, a politician in a democracy must listen to the population and act according to their wishes, since democracy puts the politician in a position of submission to the people.