The majority rule does not defend individual rights. Majority rule is used in various democratic societies where political decisions are made by attaining majority support. This majority support is believed to protect the needs and rights of all people; however, this is not the case. One reason why majority rule does not defend individual rights is that the majority might be against the protection of individual rights, especially the rights of the minority. In many cases, the majority mostly choose laws or systems that protect them at the expense of the minorities. This then undermines the rights of the minorities. Instances of the majority using their rule to undermine the rights of the minorities can be seen in various countries, including the United States. In the US, the majority used their rule to create and support racial systems. These systems affected crucial aspects of the lives of the racial minorities, including employment, housing, credit, and immigration. As a result, minority races such as African Americans experienced a declining quality of life (Pager & Shepherd, 2008). Cases of discrimination by the majority have also been reported in South Africa. In South Africa, the Colored and Indian citizens and representatives are reporting cases of discrimination in access to opportunities. This discrimination is in favor of the Black majority (Murray & Simeon, 2007.

Continue reading