Are politicians redundant ?

Just looking around at the dreadful state most countries are in currently I would personally say yes. The dictators are a complete no no and most of the democracies are bankrupt and won't admit it.

So you say what is the alternative ?

Good question and no obvious answers spring to mind. It is sad but certain that the people can't be trusted to elect the folk that have to make the unpopular but necessary decisions.

Is a theocracy like Iran the answer where God's chosen ( or so they claim ) rule ?

How about a meritocracy, where the most able rule ?

Is a plutocracy like America the answer, based on money, but $17 trillion in debt ?

So ?
Let's hear your answers before I give mine.

 

I guess it depends on your opinion of man. If you think he is stupid and greedy, then yes, there would be no hope for democracy. If you think he is intelligent, bold and inspired by goodness and kindness, then yes, he will elect politicians who represent his values.

 

A better solution may lie with the internet where everyone has a chance to vote on any major issue, like Switzerland.

or

trust the bureaucracy to look after the state. Where the bureaucrats are professionals often with relevant qualifications. They dedicate their lives and talents to getting on with the national problems rather than trusting politicians who do not need qualifications of any sort, lie frequently, exaggerate often and are well known for their greed and stupidity.

 

Another version of a meritocracy would be to have multiple voting.
Every child starts with 1 vote and throughout life adds more from his/her achievements. After all why should 1 dummy have equal voting power of a Phd ? Are their opinions just as valid ? Obviously not.

In fact quality should out vote mere quantity to some extent unlike the present system.

 

Fat chance really when you look around.

 

What if you think Man is both?

 

Calm down man, you are getting yourself a bit confused. Have a beer and start again.

 

Obviously people are usually open to bribery and corruption.
Roll on the day when a thoughtful computer is programmed to pick politicians for their attributes.

 

well, then, politicians really would be redundant. We could just let the computer run the government.

 

Who runs the computer? : )