Critical Citizens

Have Cynicism, Will Travel

One sage observed that democracy is the worst form of government – except for all the others. Small wonder, then, that North America’s widespread political cynicism extends abroad. If the US exports democracy, it also exports cynicism. Surveys show that citizens in other democratic countries are experiencing the same diminishing faith that governmental institutions represent their best interests. But why? Theories abound:

• Cultural explanations – Post-industrial societies stimulate an independent mindset that tends to be more critical. Modernization has undermined support for traditional, hierarchical institutions. This is not a problem for democratic governments per se. Rather, it is a consequence of larger issues that transcend the evaluation of governmental efficacy and relevance.
• Political explanations – Perhaps this “crisis of government” stems from unrealistic expectations. The expanded postwar role of government has elevated citizens’ perceptions of what they should receive from the state.
• Institutional explanations – This disenchantment may reflect a growing “democratic deficit” due to a widening...