Interestingly, the "democratic" side in this equation seems to see danger for real democracy in any next free elections, while the autocratic side ultimately seeks legitimation of their strong man leader in elections. As if the divisive formula is actually reversed. Several times.
I have to admit that for me, living in Western Europe, the outcome of every election is only of secondary importance. As long as the legislative politics is not touching the very foundation of society (Right to abortion for example) the impact on my daily life is limited. The difference between left-leaning and right leaning governments have been expressed in +/- 3% of tax-rate and occasional aesthetic annoyance.
In terms of morality and aesthetics of politics, leftist moralists and the proclaimers of right-wing values are much more interested in obtaining Cultural hegemony than the majority in parliament. Both of the sides are carefull readers of Gramschi and Carl Schmitt. This electronically super-amplified market of ideas is today much more vital than the rituals of organised democratic procedure.
Of course, there is a certain population that does not count to either oft contenders for cultural hegemony. They are in the woods.
The rise of the far right simply shows that democracy works. The rise of new parties when old parties are too slow, or unable, to adjust course themselves when faced with changing voter preferences, is how the democratic process then brings adjustments about.
Interestingly, the "democratic" side in this equation seems to see danger for real democracy in any next free elections, while the autocratic side ultimately seeks legitimation of their strong man leader in elections. As if the divisive formula is actually reversed. Several times.
I have to admit that for me, living in Western Europe, the outcome of every election is only of secondary importance. As long as the legislative politics is not touching the very foundation of society (Right to abortion for example) the impact on my daily life is limited. The difference between left-leaning and right leaning governments have been expressed in +/- 3% of tax-rate and occasional aesthetic annoyance.
In terms of morality and aesthetics of politics, leftist moralists and the proclaimers of right-wing values are much more interested in obtaining Cultural hegemony than the majority in parliament. Both of the sides are carefull readers of Gramschi and Carl Schmitt. This electronically super-amplified market of ideas is today much more vital than the rituals of organised democratic procedure.
Of course, there is a certain population that does not count to either oft contenders for cultural hegemony. They are in the woods.
The rise of the far right simply shows that democracy works. The rise of new parties when old parties are too slow, or unable, to adjust course themselves when faced with changing voter preferences, is how the democratic process then brings adjustments about.