In article ,
"Robert Peffers." wrote:

"labtech_one" wrote in message
...

"default" wrote in message
...

SNIP

In all fairness it is/was our fault. Theoretically (in a democracy)
the people rule. We must really like the idea of war . . .
--


in all fairness, the USA is a REPUBLIC, not a democracy.
(Majority does NOT always rule)




Is there anything to prevent a republic also being democratic?

Yes

As far as I know there are two definitions of, "Republic",
1. A state where supreme power is held by the people, or their elected
representatives, or by an elected or nominated president.
2. Literally it means a society with equality between its members.

Neither of which is the definition of Republic.

While a democracy is -
1. (a), a system of government by the whole population, usu. through elected
representatives. (b), a state so governed. (c), any organization governed on
democratic principles.
2. an egalitarian and tolerant form of society.

Well, you got that wrong as well.

Can any USAsian really believe that they live in a Republic, (in the literal
sense of the word)?

Sure. We do.

Can any USAsian really believe that they live in a "Democracy", (in the
literal sense of the word)?

Yes. Many many many people incorrectly believe that. The press insists
on getting it wrong every day.

In effect both the USA and the UK are now, "Oligarchies"-

Except for the part where we're not.

Oligarchy,
1 government by a small group of people.
2 a state governed in this way.
3 the members of such a government.

Just consider how Bush and Blair took our two countries into wars that the
public, by the large, did not want and you will see that neither state is
either democratic nor republican.

Even if your statement were true, your conclusion still wouldn't be.

We elect these people as our servants to carry out our democratic wishes and
they then become the masters and we the servants. It is long past time for
the people of both democracies to reassert themselves and demand their
appointed servants remain their servants rather than their leaders and/or
masters.

Will I now have to beware of black 'copters at dawn?

I'm sure your level of dishonesty and delusion requires it.