Democracy: Is It Fact, Or Fiction?

About the Book

The title of this book implies that democracy sometimes exists, but in name only. A discussion follows on what constitutes democracy; is there 'true' democracy? We look at problems of Social Justice, and Human Rights; and particularly at questions surrounding the politics of campaigns, and elections, in the United States. Campaigns that last much longer than in any other developed country; and how the influence of money in politics, has the potential for immense corruption. We also touch upon the association of religion and politics. Reference is also made to abuse of power, in politics, and reports on international intrigue, and conspiracies, around the world. Particular attention is paid to the chaos in Iraq, nearly six years into that long-lasting war; and problems in the entire Middle East. Reference is also made to increasing numbers of young Americans, killed, or wounded in Iraq; and ever increasing numbers of innocent Iraqis, and over 2 million who have become refugees; whilst the government standing in Iraq had remained ineffective. There are discussions on the environment against the background of reports on increased global warming. There are many references to comments by journalists, lecturers and other scholars, from different countries; and some important quotations, to keep in mind. They might help keep us on the right track. Finally, there is a brief account of experiments with democracy, in some parts of our world, throughout the history of humanity, on this planet. We refer to planet Earth, and to our Solar system, in a Universe, that is so vast, that it is beyond comprehension---are we that important? Are we significant?

About the Author

Alex Saliba (born in Malta, January 18, 1927) is a retired physician, a graduate of the Royal University of Malta, class of 1952, Doctor of Medicine. He has been married to his wife, Maureen , since 1955, and they have four children-a son and three daughters-and four grandchildren. He has practiced his profession in britain, and in Australia, and then, they came to the United States in 1958. Here, he held positions with the federal government, and for a number of years he was Medical Director of a state hospital for pulmonary diseases; and also a Clinical professor of Medicine. He then entered private medical practice until his retirement. He contributed articles to medical journals, and textbooks.