Florida Parliamentarian says freedom dependent on participation

by Louis William Rose

Democratic process in a constitutional republic is rather narrowly defined. True freedom depends on the extent to which people are aware of how that process works, and how actively they participate in it. I tell you that merely voting for the candidate is not enough.

Like anyone else, I have a political agenda, but my focus is primarily on the process, ensuring that it is fair to all factions. This requires a knowledge of, and strict adherence to the rules of order, and a commitment to free and open debate. Ultimately, parliamentary procedure is the only thing that stands between civil discourse and civil war.

Ed. Note: Rose is a contributor to The US Report. We look forward to sharing his commentary with you.