“I think it is dangerous to confuse the idea of democracy with elections” - Indian novelist, Arundhati Roy

Via Z Mag/Mickey Z:

...Questioning America’s status as a democracy is typically considered nothing short of blasphemy in polite circles, but if this month’s elections are so fair and free, why are there so many questions about how votes are ultimately counted?

...on a more practical level, have you ever wondered why the voting is held on a Tuesday instead of over a full weekend? Turnout is bound to be higher over a FridaySaturday-Sunday period. Also, a “none of the above” option would not only allow disgruntled voters to express their disdain with the alleged two-party system but also might create a run-off election or even a new set of candidates.

...In the end, of course, terms like “democracy” mean far less than the actions performed in their name. Mahatma Gandhi asked: “What difference does it make to the dead, the orphans and the homeless, whether the mad destruction is wrought under the name of totalitarianism or the holy name of liberty or democracy?"