From Titles to Functions:

From Titles to Functions: Recovering Governance That Serves the People - A cultural shift required

I have an idea that the essence of government, at its core, is to serve the people. Foolish, I know! Governance is not meant to be a position of entitlement but a responsibility rooted in the trust of the people.

Over time, however, a subtle yet profound shift has occurred: the transformation of governance from being a “function” that operates in service of the people to a system of “titles” that places leaders above them. It is a shift that has eroded the very foundation of democracy and created a hierarchy that prioritizes the power and prestige of office over its duties.

It's my belief that this distinction, between “function” and “title” is not merely semantic—it encapsulates the essence of effective and representative governance.

A “function” implies a dynamic process, a role defined by action, responsibility, and accountability. It is inherently focused on outcomes and service.

Conversely, a “title” carries with it a sense of status, authority, and permanence. It can often be divorced from the practical responsibilities it entails.

When governance becomes about titles, the focus can shift from serving the public to preserving power. This change fosters a culture of entitlement among elected officials, who begin to see themselves as rulers rather than representatives.

Ignoring popular opinion is one of the signs of this decline or descent into a form of unrepresentative governance whereby "titles" replace "function" and whereby citizens are "told" what they will accept, whether they like it or not!

The Consequences of a Title-Centric Governance

The effects of this shift are glaringly obvious today. Across the globe, we see government officials who view their positions as personal achievements rather than platforms for public service.

Parliamentary debates become exercises in political theatre rather than problem-solving. Think about that, when you see so-called parliamentary debates, the dodging of meaningful debate etc.

Policies often cater to elites or special interest groups rather than addressing the needs of ordinary citizens. Secret meetings with corporate leaders, private equity firms, and other institution's seeking to influence policy outcomes hold sway. Ask about them about such meetings and there's silence.

The language of politics has shifted too: representatives speak of their “authority” rather than their “duty.” Trust in governance erodes as people increasingly feel alienated from those who claim to represent them.

This title-centric governance contradicts the very premise of democracy, which places the people at its centre. As governments elevate themselves above the citizenry, democracy loses its grounding in accountability, transparency, and participation.

A Return to Functions: The Swiss Model of Direct Democracy

One possible remedy lies in embracing the principles of direct democracy, exemplified by the Swiss system.

Unlike systems dominated by centralized, hierarchical power, historically Swiss governance is rooted in participatory mechanisms that empower citizens to be active participants in decision-making.

The Swiss model emphasizes referenda and popular initiatives, allowing citizens to propose, approve, or reject laws directly. This system forces politicians to engage with the public regularly, as their decisions are subject to approval by the people.

By design, it dynamically shifts the focus away from titles and hierarchical power toward functions and service. Politicians are no longer insulated decision-makers but facilitators of the public will.

In the Swiss model of direct democracy, governance is not seen as a prize or a status symbol but as an ongoing dialogue between elected representatives and the people. This keeps representatives grounded in their role as public servants and ensures that their actions remain aligned with the collective interest. The system also dilutes the concentration of power, breaking down the rigid hierarchies that foster entitlement.

Re-centring Governance on the People

Adopting principles of direct democracy in other systems can help reframe governance as a function rather than a title.

This requires structural changes, such as creating mechanisms for citizen-led initiatives, mandatory referenda for significant decisions, and regular public consultations. But beyond structural reforms, it necessitates a cultural shift—a redefinition of governance that prioritizes accountability, humility, and service.

To achieve this, education plays a critical role. Citizens must be informed about their rights and responsibilities in a democracy, while elected officials must be reminded that their positions exist to serve, not to rule.

Transparency, open communication, and the use of technology to facilitate public participation can further close the gap between government and the people.

I conclusion, and in my humble opinion for what it is worth governance is not about status but service; not about power but responsibility.

The shift from functions to titles has undermined the principles of democracy, alienating citizens and fostering entitlement among politicians.

By embracing models like Swiss-style direct democracy, it is possible to restore governance to its rightful purpose: serving the people. This shift would ensure that government remains what it was always meant to be—a function performed for the people, not a title held above them.

#DirectDemocracy

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