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True Meaning Of Democracy

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The Tampa Tribune

Published: January 1, 2008

Regarding "Death Leaves Nation Crumbling" (front page, Dec. 28):

"I do not agree with your opinion but I will defend with my life your right to have it."

This quotation is the heart and soul of what we call democracy. The privilege to disagree without the risk of assassination is essential to true self-government.

Sadly, there are nations in this world that do not have this. The death of Benazir Bhutto is a prime example of this. So what if there was a fear that she would install a corrupt regime? The place to deal with this is the debating floor of the governing body or the voting booth, not with a trigger finger or a detonator.

Until this is changed, achieving a democracy is just so much wishful thinking.

WILLIAM COX

Tampa

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