A unique aspect of many liberal nations is the emphasis placed on the individual. Citizens are given choices and allowed to decide how their country is governed. Many nations, however, follow the will of a dictator and are held hostage to the decisions of one or two individuals in a position of power. In certain situations, even liberal democratic countries may appear to be following the will of a small minority, rather than that of the citizens. Such situations might arise when the change of pace is too slow, the country is experiencing economic turmoil, or the leader genuinely feels he or she knows what is best for the country. The source presents the ideological perspective that citizens should be cautious of the decisions of those in positions …show more content…
Canada had been steadily involved in the war in Afghanistan since the fall of the Taliban regime in late 2001. Numerous battles had caused the loss of many Canadian lives and as a result, the Canadian government planned to leave Afghanistan in early 2009. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Stephen Harper, however, the mission was extended until 2011. Critics of Harper’s decision believed Canada would be unable to make a difference in such an unstable area. While Harper believed the choice he made was best for the country, it was looked upon with disfavour from many citizens. The public reacted to the decision, and made public their feelings on the issue. While Harper’s position was steadfast, Canadian citizens expressed their dissatisfaction with the government’s decision to take action without consulting the public. This demonstrates how a government may act in accordance to its own preconceived belief about what is best for society, even while lacking the support of its …show more content…
During the Cold War, both the United States and Soviet Union practiced the technique of expansionism – the attempt to enlarge territorial and ideological influence beyond one’s own borders. As the US increased its sphere of influence, so too, did the Soviet Union. The United States claimed its practice of expansionism was intended to provide other countries with the freedom to choose sides. While the US government advocated free choice, it did little to encourage the ideologies of the Soviet Union. This technique, however, introduced many nations to the practice of liberalism and created a sphere of collective disapproval of Soviet policies. As the US government continued to push its viewpoints on other nations, it increased support between many democratic nations. In this instance, the will of the government to direct other nations towards liberalism, while hiding the full extent of choices available, allowed an increased sense of common good to make itself