The Myth of Democratic Myopia

Contrary to the views of those who claim there is an inherent myopia to democratic politics this paper argues that five factors have helped and can continue to help to give a long term dynamic to public policy making. Institutional biases inside government, the presence of a strong group politics, a localised polity, certain participatory mechanisms and the stratagems and tactics of smart politicians can play a part in delivering long-termism. All of these factors are contingent in their impact but uncertainty about outcomes and lack of permanent, unchallengeable settlements might be considered hallmarks of a healthy democracy. Fears of democratic myopia may reflect unease with the complex practicalities of democratic politics rather than a well-founded critique of its failings.