On Democracy: Essays on Principles Fundamental to American Government and the 2020 Presidential Election

The central question for the present generation is whether "government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish" in America. On Democracy describes 30 principles fundamental to American government. It also analyzes the challenge that Donald Trump presented to American democracy. The Trump administration proved to be a happy hunting ground for violations of the United States Constitution and of democratic norms.

Intended for use as a supplement in American government and civic education classes, the book is an authoritative and clearly written series of essays by a professor who taught political science and constitutional law for thirty-five years. Although meticulous in his attention to detail and accuracy, the author also approaches the subject matter with wry humor and an appreciation for his youthful readers. Begun on Halloween evening in 2019, the book warns that there may be goblins in the land disguised as politicians, or even patriots.

The basics are divided among six philosophical, six conditional, and six essential principles, followed by twelve fundamental features essential to the United States Constitution. Philosophical principles include the American commitments to natural rights under natural law, the belief in rationality, individualism, liberty, equality, and justice. Conditional principles conducive to American democracy include a favorable economic climate, a balance of consensus and conflict, the diffusion of political power, an educated citizenry, the two-party system, and the willingness to seek compromise. Principles that are essential to democracy are free, fair, frequent, and meaningful elections, recognition of a loyal opposition, majority rule with minority rights, free speech and debate, the right of the people to be told the truth, and safeguards against arbitrary acts. Additional principles of the United States Constitution include constitutionalism, separation of powers and checks and balances, rule of law, republicanism, federalism and states' rights, national supremacy, judicial review and an independent judiciary, civilian control of the military, no religious tests and freedom of religion, no emoluments other than salary, the right to privacy, and the right to keep and bear arms. The final part includes two essays and a conclusion on the presidential election of 2020. There are seven appendices which include the founding documents of the country.

The author, who earned his Ph.D. from the University of Missouri at Columbia, is professor emeritus and former head of the Department of the Social Sciences at Southwestern Oklahoma State University at Weatherford.