"Democracy is the only system that persists in asking the powers that be whether they are the powers that ought to be"

Sydney J. Harris explores the fundamental nature of democracy by emphasizing its unique capacity for self-examination and accountability. Unlike other forms of government where authority is often perpetuated without question, democracy thrives on continual evaluation and criticism. Those in power are never assumed to be infallible or inherently deserving; rather, their legitimacy relies on the ongoing consent and scrutiny of the people they govern.

Democracy’s distinguishing feature lies in its insistence on questioning authority. Elections, free press, independent judiciary, and civil society all serve as mechanisms for holding leaders to account and for asking whether those currently in power continue to merit that power. It embodies a system in which no leadership can rest securely on its laurels or claim divine or hereditary right, but must openly justify its actions and policies to the constituency. Through public debates, opposition parties, and freedom of speech, democratic structures institutionalize dissent as a healthy and necessary component, constantly testing the alignment between public officials and the needs and will of the people.

This perpetual questioning fosters adaptability and course correction, allowing democracies to evolve and improve in response to changing circumstances and societal values. By not allowing power to be taken for granted, democracy promotes a political culture of humility, transparency, and responsiveness. Leaders, aware that their authority is conditional and revocable, are more likely to act with accountability and remain sensitive to the public’s needs.

Harris’s reflection underscores democracy’s commitment to the notion that authority itself must continually prove its legitimacy. It is a system that celebrates not only the right but the responsibility to question, critique, and even change leadership when it ceases to fulfill its purpose. Through this process, democracy safeguards its own integrity and remains a living, dynamic force in society.