"Violence is hidden within democratic structures because they are not radically democratic - Western democracy is merely a domestic convenience of consumerism"

In this thought-provoking quote by Edward Bond, the playwright critiques the underlying structures of Western democracy by recommending that violence is intrinsic in these systems due to the fact that they lack extreme democratic concepts. Bond's assertion welcomes an exploration of democracy's superficial aspects within consumer-driven societies.

The phrase "violence is hidden within democratic structures" triggers an examination of the systemic and institutional violence that can exist even in societies that identify themselves as democratic. This might describe social and economic inequalities that are perpetuated and reinforced within democratic structures. These inequalities often manifest as structural violence, where individuals or groups suffer harm or disadvantages due to societal structures that privilege some while marginalizing others. For instance, a legal system that disproportionately targets minority groups, or financial policies that expand the space between rich and poor, can be viewed as forms of violence that exist within democratic structures.

Bond's observation that these structures "are not radically democratic" recommends that the democratic principles purportedly supported by Western societies do not extend far enough to impact real equality and justice. A drastically democratic system would most likely involve more participatory and equitable processes that empower all individuals, not just those who fit within the consumerist structure.

Moreover, by describing Western democracy as "merely a domestic benefit of consumerism", Bond suggests that these democratic systems predominantly serve the interests of customer culture and industrialism rather than the genuine empowerment of people. This viewpoint criticizes how democratic ideals may be jeopardized or subverted to maintain financial stability and customer fulfillment, rather than accomplishing the more comprehensive objectives of social justice and equality.

In summary, Bond's statement motivates a vital evaluation of how democracy functions in practice, urging a recognition of the surprise violence and restricted scope of modern democratic systems formed by consumerism. It is a call to think of and strive towards a more inclusive and fair democratic perfect that goes beyond superficial consumerist interests.