For an example of how political facts do not simply speak for themselves, consider how elite democrats and popular democrats view the lack of participation in elections. For elite democrats, the fact that only about half the people participate in presidential elections is a sign of a healthy democracy. People are not naturally inclined to participate in politics. The fact that many people do not participate is a sign of satisfaction. Moreover, we are fortunate that those with less education and tolerance are less likely to vote.
Popular democrats see low levels of political participation as a sign of a sick democracy.
Popular democrats argue that many people are alienated from politics and thus view their own participation as meaningless. People see the power of money and their limited choices and conclude not only that they have little influence, but that it does not matter who wins. For instance, if nonvoting is an expression of satisfaction, then the system is legitimate. If nonvoting is an expression of alienation, then the government loses legitimacy and political protests outside of normal channels are justified. The authors end with a warning and an invitation.