Question

What are the distinctive characteristics of Liberal Theories of Democracy and those emphasizing the representation of Popular Will?

Answer 1

Liberal Theories of Democracy:

Liberal theories of democracy emphasize the separation of powers, an independent judiciary, and a system of checks and balances between branches of government. Governmental authority is legitimately exercised only by written, publicly disclosed laws adopted and enforced by the established procedure.

Liberals expose a wide array of views depending on their understanding of these principles. Still, they generally support free markets, free trade, limited government, individual rights (including civil rights and human rights), capitalism, democracy, secularism, gender equality, racial equality, internationalism, etc.

Popular Will:

Popular Will is a political party in Venezuela founded by former Mayor of Chacao, Leopoldo Lopez, its national coordinator. The party describes itself as progressive and social-democratic. The party was formed in reaction to alleged infringements of individual freedom and human rights on Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez and his successor Nicolas Maduro. The party attempts to bring together Venezuelans of various backgrounds who consider Chavismo oppressive and authoritarian. Popular Will self identifies itself as "a pluralist and democratic movement" that is committed to "progress", which it defines as the realization of "the social, economic, political, and human rights of every Venezuelan."

The party says its "fundamental pillars" are progress, democracy, and social action.

Differences between Liberal Theory and Popular Will:

• The liberal theory of democracy is common in the world overall, and Popular Will is the party attempts to bring together Venezuelans of various backgrounds who consider Chavismo oppressive and authoritarian.

• The liberal theory supports free markets, free trade, limited government, individual rights (including civil rights and human rights), capitalism, democracy, secularism, gender equality, racial equality, internationalism, etc. Whereas the Popular Will self identifies itself as "a pluralist and democratic movement" that is committed to "progress", which it defines as the realization of "the social, economic, political, and human rights of every Venezuelan."

Party Types of Both:

The liberal theory of democracy

Liberal Theory has characterized by-elections between multiple distinct political parties, a separation of powers into different branches of government, the rule of law in everyday life as part of an open society, a market economy with private property, and the equal protection of human rights, civil rights, civil liberties and political freedoms for all people.

Popular Will

On January 14, 2011, the National Electoral Council of Venezuela formally accepted Popular Will as a legitimate political party. The party platform, "The Best Venezuela", calls for an open, transparent government and the punishment of abuses of power by public officials. It supports globalization and calls for an inclusive society "without regard to wealth, religion, age, race, sexual orientation, gender identity, or political opinions." The party seeks to make Venezuela the world's largest producer and exporter of oil.