#2031 Democracy and Demagoguery

#2031 Democracy and Demagoguery

Instructor: Phil McDonald

The Founding Fathers were acutely aware that unrestrained “rule by the people” would inevitably attract men of low character and repute to government. In their wisdom, they created a republic, and not a democracy. They felt this would minimize the chances that scoundrels would cynically exploit the passions of the multitude and threaten democratic governance.

Despite their best intentions, men “of low character and repute” have inserted themselves into the body politic. This class will explore the relationship between demagogues and democracy and attempt to answer the question, “Can democracies be imperiled by the rise of demagogues?

Wednesday, July 15, 10am

Phil McDonald, MSE from Drake University. Phil retired after a 30-year career of teaching government, U.S. history, and psychology classes. He served as Adjunct Professor of Government and Psychology for Upper Iowa University and was nominated for Who’s Who among American Teachers.