The phrase, "The Expulsive Power of a Greater Affection" was coined by the Scottish minister and theologian Thomas Chalmers. Chalmers lived during the 19th century and was known for his contributions to various fields, including theology, economics, and social reform.
Transformative Power
He used this phrase to describe the idea that when individuals experience a greater affection or passion for something, it has the power to expel or displace lesser affections. Chalmers primarily applied this concept in a religious context, but it has since been used in various contexts to describe the transformative power of strong emotions or beliefs.
So, "The Expulsive Power of a Greater Affection" is a captivating phrase that encapsulates the idea that once you've experienced something truly remarkable, it becomes difficult to settle for anything less.
Keys
Let's imagine you're in a direct democracy, where every citizen has a direct say in how key decisions are made. It's like being handed the keys to a kingdom where your voice truly matters. In this context, "The Expulsive Power of a Greater Affection" refers to the irresistible allure of direct democracy, which can make other forms of governance pale in comparison.
Like upgrading your phone
It’s like when you upgrade from a flip phone to a smartphone; suddenly, you wonder how you ever survived without all those apps and features. In the realm of governance, direct democracy is the smartphone, offering citizens a direct say in decision-making. Once folks get a taste of that power, they're not going back to the governance equivalent of a flip phone, where their voices might as well be shouting into the void.
Unmatched by Any Other System
Similarly, in the world of governance, direct democracy offers a level of empowerment and engagement that is unmatched by other systems. When citizens have the power to shape policies, and participate directly in decision-making, it creates a sense of ownership and responsibility that is incredibly fulfilling. Once you've tasted that level of involvement, going back to a system where your voice feels distant or ignored can feel like settling for second best.
Imagine this:
You're trudging through a desert of fast-food chains, each one offering the same old greasy burgers and soggy fries. Just when you're about to give up hope and resign yourself to a lifetime of mediocre meals, you stumble upon a hidden gem of a restaurant. The aroma of gourmet cuisine wafts through the air, promising flavours beyond your wildest dreams. You step inside and are greeted by a symphony of sizzling pans and tantalizing spices. Each dish is a work of art, crafted with care and attention to detail. As you take that first heavenly bite, you realize you've been missing out on a whole world of culinary delights.
Now, let's transpose this culinary adventure into the realm of governance. You've been navigating through a political landscape littered with uninspiring options, where your voice feels like it's echoing in an empty room. But then, you discover direct democracy—a system where several times a year every citizen has a seat at the table, where the important decisions are made collectively and transparently.
Note: In Switzerland, the year 2038 is significant for referendum dates because it marks the end of the current schedule for planning and scheduling referendums. YES, the dates are already planned for several times a year referendums up until 2038!
Can't go back to what you had before
Just as gourmet cuisine spoils your taste buds for anything less, experiencing the richness and depth of direct democracy spoils your appetite for anything less participatory. Once you've savoured the flavours of genuine engagement and influence, you're not going to be satisfied with a bland, watered-down version of governance ever again. It's like trading in your dilapidated bicycle for a turbocharged sports car—you're not looking back, because the thrill of the ride is too exhilarating to resist.
So, "The Expulsive Power of a Greater Affection" within the context of direct democracy is about recognizing the transformative impact of having a real say in governance and understanding why once people experience it, they never want to let it go. It's like finding a treasure that changes your perspective forever.
Hopefully this article leaves you hungry for more knowledge and eager to explore the wonders of direct democracy further. #DirectDemocracy
Comments