In order for democracy to develop across the world monotheism must cease

Democracy is a system of political government carried out either directly by the people (direct democracy) or by means of elected representatives, known as a representative democracy [1]. Monotheism is the belief that only one God exists; examples of monotheistic religions include Christianity, Judaism, Islam, etc. I will begin my argument by noting that nowhere under a description of monotheism have I come across the assertion that monotheists or monotheism in general favors one political leader over a democracy [2]. Instead, any "divine ruler" mentioned in sacred monotheistic books most likely refers to either Jesus - who is meant to be a spiritual King and not a political King - or men like King David and King Solomon whom scholars refer to as part of the united monarchy [3]. These ancient monarchies are important to religious scholars; however, have little to no relevance regarding religion and the political systems they propose today. Consider, for instance, the Augustinian doctrine of the Two Cities. Augustine discussed the City of God (heaven) vs. the City of Man (earth) and noted that no political system would ever be able to afford perfect justice; for that is reserved for heaven. However, he notes that we should accept political arrangements that secure peace without overly emphasizing temporal justice, and emphasize social justice as democracy tends to do [4]. Indeed, St. Augustine held a profound "endorsement of small republics for their closer approximation to a justice on earth. Augustine in various instances praises the ancient republican ideal for its attempt to constrain human ambitions, particularly the cravings for empire and expansion of material wealth. He spoke admiringly of the conception of 'commonwealth' animated by 'a common sense of right,' including the virtues of self-rule, mutual restraint, and an abiding regard for other humans" [5]. As you can see, a monotheistic religion like Christianity does not argue in favor of complete and total monarchy. In fact, many times throughout history did the Bible and other books refer to unjust Kings who needed to be dethroned. At best, monotheism promotes theocracy: an interwoven society governed by religion, or with religion setting the basis for laws and cultural behavior. However, most religious people acknowledge that not everybody is religious let alone adheres to their particular beliefs. Even monotheists are divided into three distinct factions. Clearly Christians do not intend on following Islamic laws, either legal or cultural. Therefore the only way for these three religions to coexist would be to respect each other's beliefs, and leave religion as one aspect of life while public policy is another. Furthermore, let's look at the concept of democracy itself and what it promotes. I'll begin by pointing out that not everyone favors a democratic government, and that there are an abundant amount of criticisms regarding democracy itself meaning it should not automatically be accepted as an ideal. However, I will simply be refuting the resolution and not arguing either in favor or aainst democracy; I will simply be showing how democracy can fully be integrated with monotheism or vice versa. Anyway, either under a direct democracy or representative democracy, one is allowed to endorse their religious beliefs with their vote. For instance, a monotheist is typically pro-life and anti-abortion. Instead of allowing their beliefs to trump politics, they are each given a vote just as every other person is given a vote, and thus anti monotheistic policies can indeed come into fruition even with monotheists having a say in government. Similarly, even if the majority of voters are monotheists, democracies still work to ensure that there is no tyranny of the majority in a democratic society [6]. In other words, simply because monotheists exist does not mean that their policy will take over. More importantly, Pro's suggestion that monotheism must cease in order for democracy to function properly is a direct contradiction of democracy itself and what it represents. A democracy is supposed to give each person the opportunity to advance their values in their own self-interest, INCLUDING those who wish to promote monotheism or its values. Trying to eliminate this belief is ignoring their right in a democratic society to participate in government the way that they see fit. In conclusion, I have proven that (1) monotheism isn't against democracy; (2) a true democracy acknowledges monotheistic voters; and (3) democracies CAN function with monotheism in place. It is Pro's burden to prove otherwise. Thank you and good luck! [1] http://en.wikipedia.org... [2] http://plato.stanford.edu... [3] http://en.wikipedia.org... [4] http://findarticles.com... [5] http://findarticles.com... [6] http://www.garlikov.com...