We are told that democracy is power to the people. But power is rarely handed over without conditions. The rituals of voting, the symbols of representation, the language of rights – all suggest freedom. But is this the full story? Or just the stage set?
This edition isn’t about rejecting democracy. It’s about seeing what’s beneath its costume. And that begins with how we talk about it.
Some words don’t just describe the world – they control it. Enter praetorian terms.
Originally, the Praetorian Guard protected Roman emperors. Over time, they gained so much power they could make or unmake rulers. Today, we borrow this image to describe words that appear to serve truth or justice but actually protect the systems of power behind the scenes.
Democracy has become such a term.
Take these everyday phrases:
- “Democratic process” – noble sounding, but who shapes the process? Who benefits?
- “In the national interest” – often a euphemism for elite decisions made behind closed doors
- “Freedom of choice” – often means choosing between options pre-approved by those in power
These phrases act like linguistic bodyguards. They shield power from real scrutiny, while keeping us occupied with the theatre of inclusion.
A praetorian term is not necessarily a lie. It’s a truth in uniform, standing guard. The danger is not in the word itself, but in how it is used to limit thought, deflect accountability, and preserve control.
So we must ask:
If democracy depends on words that serve the powerful more than the people, are we participating or being pacified? When we treat words like sacred truths rather than tools to be examined, we lose sight of who they truly serve. Naming the praetorian terms in our public language is the first step toward ethical clarity.
The Question That Matters: If the people have the vote, but not the power, is that still democracy? Subscribe and be part of this important conversation. More Ethics Article
Think. Choose. Be.
