There has been a disturbing trend in modern American democracy, one that has become even more pervasive and entrenched as we progress into the new millennium. This issue has become a malignancy on the development of the Great Society and serves to hinder the progress of democracy as we know it. This important issue that I bring to light is the non participation and apathy of the average American voter. Many Americans question the efficacy of their vote and its impact on society, which has led to a new generation of voters who find themselves out of touch with their government. These disillusioned voters can no longer see the connection between the action of voting and the implementation of policy. Essentially, this demoralized citizenry feel as though they are small, ineffective cogs in the machine.
What these disillusioned voters need to realize is that the true value of an idea or action is in the problems it attempts to solve. While it is possible to critique this position as being too hopeful or “pie in the sky”, I would say that it is heavily based on reality. The only way society continues to progress in this very real and grounded reality is by the spread of ideas and the development of opinion. At its core, society is the conglomeration of individuals. It is not a uniform, homogenous blob of opinion but rather an infinitely faceted grouping of people that espouses many different viewpoints, ideas, and dreams. Every person everywhere matters, and most importantly, we also matter to each other. If we hide our opinions or adopt policies of inaction, then we are devaluing the importance of ourselves of society as a whole. It’s importance to realize that even though our actions may not have immediately tangible effects, they contribute to the greater mass of thought and opinion that make up a well-educated and free society. By not voting or acting on the issues that are important to us as individuals, we are lowering the value of our own intellectual power and the intellect of society as a whole.
When a citizen feels a lack of efficacy in their efforts, it is because they feel alone and powerless when faced with the greater forces of society. I encourage people to realize that they are not alone and that their hopes and ideas are significant to many people. There exist groups, foundations, and organizations for every problem conceivable. If you find something to be important, chances are someone else has felt the same way too. I encourage us all to seek these people out and act alongside them so that we can see our problems aren’t insignificant and they are indeed shared with society. It is only by acting and becoming truly exposed to societal issues that you will find these kindred souls and become aligned with them. Once you find these people, move together to find other idealists who you don’t agree with and work to develop your thoughts among each other. The true measure of a society is the communication and action between people of different backgrounds, hopes, and interests. It is only through action that you can expose yourself to society at large. This is the only way to truly feel the power of your individual self and the resounding effect you have on the people around you. Everyone needs each other. Go vote.