CLEAVAGES

This quotation – which refers just to the democratic mode of conflict solving – expresses an opinion which is shared by many. In order to grow and to survive, it is alleged, the free government of the people must be safeguarded by a political culture which is pervaded by an elementary consent regarding the general rules of behaviour. In paradoxical terms, there must be agreement on the establishment of a system which is distinguished by dissonance and often strongly opposed wills. Despite actual conflicts, it is essential to protect even the opponents' full right to promote their standpoints. This ‘balance between unity and division, between co-operation and conflict’ – as Herbert Tingsten says – is difficult to attain. When applied, popular government has often been prone to cause division rather than promote fellowship.

According to Dankwart Rustow, it is against this background that one condition in particular must be fulfilled: democracy requires a national unity, a sense of affinity between the citizens which surpasses other loyalties. The problem is that this is frequently lacking. Many states are instead divided by deep cleavages between different population groups.