Sir, - Like many others, I have been grappling with Donald Trump’s impact on American democracy. Yet, paradoxically, my opposition to his politics has deepened my engagement with the American political system. This discomfort has sparked a more critical examination of what truly constitutes effective democratic leadership. Mr Trump’s presidency, despite its divisiveness, may yield an unexpected benefit for both American and global democracy. By compelling citizens to confront fundamental questions about leadership, governance and civic duty, it has catalysed a crucial dialogue about democratic resilience.
As John Stuart Mill argued in On Liberty, engaging with opposing viewpoints not only clarifies our own convictions but strengthens our understanding of democratic institutions.
Perhaps this is democracy’s silver lining: opposition often awakens civic consciousness and renews our commitment to protecting and enhancing democratic values. – Yours, etc,
ENDA CULLEN,
Fintan O’Toole: Five years after Covid, we scorn health workers, ignore vaccines and work in our offices
Gordon D’Arcy: Shaun Edwards makes a compelling case for the defence in France’s victory
‘I think my brother might be controlling his wife and daughter’
Autumn in Australia: I wonder if you ever get used to it?
Armagh.
Sir, – It looks like Donald Trump is trying to swamp the drain. – Yours, etc,
FINTAN CADOGAN,
Inniscarra,
Co Cork.
