Introduction

Democracy, originating in ancient Greece, has been a subject of philosophical inquiry and continues to
shape modern political systems. In this learning journal, I aim to explore the views of Greek philosophers
on democracy and provide insights into my perspective on democracy in the modern world.
Understanding the philosophical underpinnings of democracy and its relevance in contemporary
contexts is crucial for assessing the challenges and aspirations of democratic societies.

Body

Greek Philosophers' Views on Democracy:

1. Socrates: Socrates held a critical view of democracy, viewing it as susceptible to mob rule and
leading to ignorance and corruption. He believed that decision-making in a democratic society
was based on the opinions of the majority, rather than the wisdom of knowledgeable individuals
(Ivanovski, 2021). Socrates' trial and subsequent execution serve as notable examples of how
democracy could turn against dissenting voices, demonstrating the potential dangers of
unchecked popular will.

2. Plato: Plato, a student of Socrates, offered a nuanced critique of democracy in his work, the
Republic. He argued that democracy was an imperfect form of government, prone to political
instability and incapable of producing wise and just rulers (Ivanovski, 2021). Plato proposed the
idea of a philosopher-king, an enlightened ruler who possessed knowledge and wisdom, as the
ideal leader who could guide society towards virtue and justice.

3. Aristotle: Aristotle, another influential Greek philosopher, categorized different types of

constitutions, including democracy, oligarchy, and monarchy. He recognized the potential
pitfalls of democracy but also acknowledged its advantages, such as fostering equality and
political participation (Ivanovski, 2021). Aristotle favored a mixed regime, blending elements of
democracy and oligarchy, as he believed it could strike a balance between the interests of
different social groups and promote stability.

Democracy in Myanmar: Before and After the Coup

Before the recent coup in Myanmar, the country had made significant strides toward democracy. The
National League for Democracy (N.L.D.), led by Aung San Suu Kyi, won two consecutive elections with a
landslide majority, reflecting the desire of the people for democratic governance (Ebead & Brand, 2022).
However, the military refused to accept the election results, leading to a power seizure and subsequent
crackdown on civil liberties and protests. This situation highlights the fragility of democracy and the
challenges faced by countries transitioning to democratic systems.

A Myanmar Teenager's Perspective on Democracy in the Modern World

As a Myanmar teenager, growing up in a country with a turbulent political history, I have witnessed the
struggles and sacrifices made by my fellow citizens in their pursuit of democratic ideals. The events
following the coup have reinforced the importance of democratic principles such as freedom of
expression, human rights, and the voice of the people. Despite the setbacks, I am hopeful that
Myanmar's younger generation will play a vital role in shaping a more inclusive, participatory, and
resilient democratic system.
Conclusion

Reflecting on the views of Greek philosophers on democracy and considering my perspective on

democracy in the modern world reveals the complexity and significance of this political concept. While
the ancient philosophers offered critical analyses and idealized alternatives, the experiences of countries
like Myanmar demonstrate the challenges and struggles associated with the implementation and
preservation of democratic systems. Moving forward, it is crucial to foster civic engagement, promote
democratic values, and support the aspirations of younger generations to ensure the resilience and
vitality of democracy in Myanmar and beyond.

Reference

Ebead, N., & Brand, M. (2022, September 12). Towards the restoration of democracy in

Myanmar: Reflections on Democracy Day. Idea; IDEA. https://www.idea.int/news-

media/news/towards-restoration-democracy-myanmar-reflections-democracy-day

Ivanovski, S. (2021, September 6). What did Ancient Greek philosophers think about

democracy? Lifestyle Democracy. https://www.lifestyledemocracy.com/what-did-ancient-

greek-philosophers-and-scholars-think-about-democracy/