"In a democracy everybody has a right to be represented, including the jerks"

Democracy is often celebrated for its universality, the notion that every individual, regardless of their views or temperament, deserves a say in how society is governed. The statement by Chris Patten underscores this sometimes uncomfortable reality: representation in a democratic system is not a reward for virtue, intelligence, or likability, but a fundamental right extended to all citizens. This includes people whose opinions are unpopular, abrasive, or even distasteful. Rather than serving only the majority or the agreeable, democracy opens its doors to the entire spectrum of society, from the wise and thoughtful to the rude and obtuse.

Such inclusivity isn’t just a theoretical ideal; it is woven into the practices and structures of democratic governance. Elections do not filter out participants based on character, and legislative bodies contain individuals across every conceivable persuasion. The presence of “jerks” is not a bug, but a feature, reflecting the reality that democracy must account for the whole, not just the parts we prefer. It teaches humility and tolerance, for it requires engaging with viewpoints that challenge our own sensibilities and, sometimes, our patience.

This approach fosters not only legitimacy but also stability. People are less likely to become alienated or rebellious when they feel seen, no matter how disagreeable their perspectives might be. At its heart, democracy is messy, it is a system designed to handle differences, not erase them. By granting representation to everyone, societies are reminded that the path to collective decision-making involves compromise, negotiation, and sometimes enduring the presence of those we would rather ignore. It affirms the equality of all citizens under the system, securing a space for minority views and controversial voices, preserving the vibrancy and dynamism that prevent stagnation and authoritarian drift. Representation for all, even the “jerks,” is both a duty and a safeguard for democratic societies.