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One of the core concepts to democracy regards the civilian control of the military. In these systems the highest military official is the civilian head of government as commander-in-chief. This in contrast to juntas where the military is the government.
No, in a democratic system, the military is subordinate to civilian government authority and cannot override it under normal circumstances.
A civilian regime refers to a government that is predominantly made up of civilian leaders who are not part of the military. In a civilian regime, power is usually vested in elected officials and civilian institutions, rather than military authorities.
Stratocracy, a form of government led by military officials, can offer benefits such as strong national security and efficient decision-making during crises, as military leaders often have experience in leadership and organization. However, the cons include potential suppression of civil liberties, lack of democratic representation, and the risk of prioritizing military objectives over the needs of the civilian population. Additionally, this system can lead to a culture of militarism and may hinder the development of civilian institutions and governance.
The most useful of the degree of democracy reached by a particular society is whether it has a civilian government. Other forms of government can happen in non-democratic platforms.
Civilian government is generally considered better than military government because it promotes democratic principles, such as accountability, human rights, and the rule of law. Civilian leaders are typically elected by the populace, ensuring that governance reflects the will of the people, whereas military governments often rely on force and coercion. Additionally, civilian governments tend to foster political stability and economic development by encouraging civic engagement and participation in decision-making processes. This can lead to more sustainable and inclusive growth compared to the often authoritarian and repressive nature of military rule.
When an individual or entity has complete control over a nation's armed forces, it is often referred to as "military dictatorship" or "military rule." In such a system, the military exerts significant influence over the government and may operate without civilian oversight. This concentration of power can undermine democratic institutions and civil liberties.
The United States President (a civilian) is the Commander in Chief of the American armed forces. If a general in the army was to become the President of the USA, he or she would not be allowed to remain in the army.
Democratic institutions thrive in environments characterized by strong rule of law, active civil society, and a free press, which collectively promote transparency and accountability. Additionally, inclusive political processes that allow for diverse representation help mitigate conflict and foster public trust. Economic stability and equitable access to resources also play a crucial role, as they reduce grievances that could destabilize governance. Lastly, strong education systems contribute to an informed electorate capable of making sound decisions in a democracy.
Military rule is considered an aberration because it disrupts the normal functioning of democratic governance and civil society. Typically, military regimes arise during periods of political instability or crisis, undermining the rule of law and civilian authority. Such governance often leads to human rights abuses, suppression of dissent, and the erosion of democratic institutions, making it a deviation from the ideal of representative government. Ultimately, military rule is seen as a temporary and often coercive solution that does not reflect the will of the people.
There are not many advantages of a military government over a civilian government. One thing that may be considered an advantage is that a military government is always ready to defend its country.
Civilian supremacy over the military is manifested through several key mechanisms, including the establishment of a civilian-led government that makes defense policy decisions, legislative oversight of military budgets and operations, and the appointment of civilian officials to top defense positions. Additionally, civilian control is reinforced by constitutional provisions that delineate the roles and powers of military and civilian authorities. This dynamic ensures that military actions align with democratic values and the will of the populace, thereby preventing military overreach or influence in political affairs.