Beyond the Noise: Rethinking Election Campaigns for Mature Democracy

As South Korea approaches its June 3rd local elections, the typical election campaign noise, loud slogans, blaring music, and constant rallies, remains a point of contention. This contrasts sharply with the author's experience in Canada, where election campaigns are remarkably subdued. Upon immigrating, the author was surprised by the quiet approach: candidates would personally visit homes, introduce their platforms, and offer campaign flyers, all without the disruptive fanfare common in South Korea.

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If the country says not to go to a dangerous area, you shouldn't go

In Canada, the author observed, there were no trucks with loudspeakers, no crowds shouting slogans on street corners, and no incessant jingles. The only visible signs of an election were small flags indicating candidate numbers and party affiliations. This peaceful atmosphere allowed for normal life to continue uninterrupted, a stark difference from the author's experience running a clinic in South Korea, where election season made it nearly impossible to conduct patient consultations due to the overwhelming noise and commotion.

The author's children further illuminated the Canadian approach, describing how candidates would hold debates in school auditoriums for high school seniors. Students could ask questions directly, applauding well-reasoned arguments and booing weak ones. This hands-on engagement, even extending to allowing students to miss regular classes to attend, was seen as a vital lesson in living democracy. In contrast, when the author inquired about similar practices in South Korea, they were met with responses that schools maintain a political vacuum, prohibiting such direct candidate engagement.

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Don't use national taxes for rescue

Reflecting on the current South Korean election season, the author notes that while some candidates are opting for less disruptive methods like avoiding loud sound trucks and banners, the overall noise level remains a concern. The article posits that the phrase "democracy is noisy" should not refer to the volume of loudspeakers but to the existence of diverse viewpoints and the process of reaching consensus through debate. The author suggests that schools, which are often closed for events due to noise complaints, could serve as ideal, respectful venues for these debates, fostering a more meaningful democratic education.

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Israel's response was much more brutal and blatant this time.

The piece concludes by questioning the logic of silencing children's activities for noise concerns while tolerating disruptive political campaigns. It emphasizes that crucial life lessons, including those about democracy, are best learned through everyday experiences and that elections should serve as prime educational grounds. The author advocates for a shift towards more substantive, issue-based campaigns that engage citizens thoughtfully, rather than relying on overwhelming auditory tactics.

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What kind of country is Israel, which illegally seizes ships carrying relief supplies in its territorial waters and does not hesitate to commit atrocities even against foreigners in front of cameras?