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Originally Posted by ecofreak
So if there is widespread popular dismay of something, and the government responds... Are we mistaking democracy for something else here?
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Where does "widespread popular dismay" come from? Do you really think more laws, rules, regulations and prohibitions will solve anything? Direct democracy is not a utopian ideal or a perfect system of government. At its worst it is nothing more than mob rule.
Just because an idea becomes "popular" or "widespread" does not necessarily mean it will be beneficial or just. To the contrary, history has shown that it often is neither. Prohibition was a good example of "widespread popular dismay" on the grandest scale, to the point of passage of a constitutional amendment - which is
really going some to go to that length. Unfortunately the unforeseen consequences of it were not recognized by the widespread, popular majority that supported it.
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Sure, the economy has made everyone uneasy. The largest benefit it had is in the strengthening and reaffirmation of our civil culture. Democracy is going to be here for years to come. (not to worry  )
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Democracy unchecked is indeed a valid worry. People forget (or never learned) that some dictators like Hitler were actually elected by a "widespread popular" voting populace. With every new law, rule, restriction and prohibition we are relinquishing another small piece of liberty. If it's done in small enough increments, we won't even notice how it was taken from us.
So when you hear that 'a thing like that shouldn't be allowed' ask yourself what the motive is of those who call for bans, restrictions and prohibitions. And don't forget those pesky unforeseen consequences that might occur, should any touted widespread and popular trend prevail.