Is Democracy a Means to an End or an End unto Itself?

[Antonio the Sixth]

An end into itself.

Democracy in no way guarantees good governance, responsible policy choices, social justice, or any other desirable outcome. It is however a moral imperative based on the belief that every citizen, no matter its characteristics, has an equal and unalienable right to take part to the key decisions of the polity.

[Antonio the Sixth]

From my perspective democracy, and socialism for that matter, should be regarded as means to the end of human happiness.

You're right at the fundamental level, but if we are to take that standard, then isn't basically everything a means to this end?

[Antonio the Sixth]

You're right at the fundamental level, but if we are to take that standard, then isn't basically everything a means to this end?

Almost - I suppose human endeavors can also be means to the end of avoiding suffering, as well!

I'd say that true happiness, fundamentally, consists in the absence of suffering. It might sound like a banality but I think some philosopher said it.

[Antonio the Sixth]

A society that is capable of having a democracy that does not enact oppressive policies and does not take advantage of people for its own enrichment is an end unto itself.

Who is "it" in this sentence? I can't interpret it in any way that makes the slightest amount of sense.