In “The Big Question Answered” (Monitor Forum, Sept. 12), Millie LaFontaine asks the question, “We are a democracy, right?” My answer: No, we are not a pure democracy. A quick review of the definition of democracy, distilled down to its simplest terms, says that pure democracy is mob rule with no protections for minorities or those on the unpopular side of an issue. A republic, on the other hand, guarantees protections and a stable government by a set of laws and through a constitution and a bill of rights.
It seems to be popular for some of the candidates (Tom Steyer, in particular) to advocate various forms of polling or referendums as a desirable method of government, but it is simply advocating for a return of mob rule. I say no.
BILL MURPHY
Boscawen