It should come as no surprise that the budget debates dominating Washington are increasingly partisan.
The budget put forth by Republican and Tea Party house representatives is a direct result of their foundational belief in small government.
Because conservatives champion individuals to make their own decisions free of government intervention, they tend to view many government-backed social programs as inefficient and often unnecessary.
Before you cement your commitment to conservatism or liberalism, I challenge everyone to step back and ask themselves what they believe democracy is and what it demands of its citizens.
This can be a very challenging word to unpack under further examination.
I will share a few ideas developed by a class of graduate students studying the theme of democracy and education.
A democratic society should contain a mindful citizenry that shows concern for the common good.
Citizens should use empathy and sympathy to assist their willingness to compromise. A democracy should show a willingness to sacrifice and remain patient while having the courage to act when the time is right. My fellow colleagues and I believe these are characteristics of the democracy so often thrown around in political rhetoric.
As you continue to watch the budget debates, ask yourself what democracy means to you.
And if you happen to feel as I do, you may ask yourself, who is not sacrificing and who is not willing to compromise?
Nicholas Hall is a graduate student studying cultural studies in education.
