Drawing on Reinhold Niebuhr’s observations about justice and democracy, John Mishler asks readers to consider whether they are critical thinkers or blind followers when making decisions at the ballot box.
by John M. MishlerGuest Contributor
American Reformed Theologian Reinhold Niebuhr once opined “…….Man’s capacity for justice makes democracy possible, but man’s inclination to injustice makes democracy necessary.” Is there a direct connection between acknowledging Niebuhr’s prescient words and being/becoming a responsible individual when voting? Yes.
- Are you a critical thinker or a blind follower? Yes or No.
- Do you wholeheartedly support “We the People,” “Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness,” and our Constitution? Yes or No.
- Do you believe in justice/equality for all? Yes or No.
- Is wealth inequality eroding Basic Human Rights? Yes or No.
- Should we have suitable restrictions on Artificial Intelligence (AI) and data centers? Yes or No.
- Do you believe in verifiable or alternative facts/conspiracy theories? Yes or No.
- Would you knowingly support corrupt officials? Yes or No.
- Do you believe climate change/global warming is a hoax? Yes or No.
- Do you support Freedom of the Press? Yes or No.
- Should we initiate equitable/fair tax legislation for all citizens, both rich and poor? Yes or No.
- Should we have a king/dictator or a legally-elected president in the White House? Yes or No.
Photo: Marek Studzinski/Unsplash
Critical thinking, verifiable information and a willingness to question assumptions are central in responsible voting. With the 2026 midterm elections approaching, your first obligation is to support our overall “capacity for justice,” and vote for those who will dedicate themselves to fighting against injustice.
Being a critical thinker will allow you to read, study, and discern the eroding influence of wealth inequality on Basic Human Rights. Employing these same proficiencies, you can differentiate between verifiable versus alternative facts and debunk conspiracy theories. Therefore, you will not be a blind follower. As a critical thinker, the pros and cons of AI and data centers can be discussed in light of what benefits society as a whole, rather than be a vehicle to enrich selfish entrepreneurs. The ability to think critically will also allow one to ascertain and detect the “appearance of corruption", which can and does provide an unfair advantage when utilized to influence elected officials. Ergo, only a law-abiding president deserves to be in the White House, and not a king. If you are a blind follower, you may not be able to identify corruption, especially if it is not discussed openly and objectively within systems you employ to receive your “news." Most importantly, as a critically thinking responsible voter, your first obligation is to support our overall “capacity for justice,” by identifying candidates who share this sacred conviction and will dedicate themselves to fighting against an “inclination to injustice.” If you are a blind follower, are you differentiating between justice and injustice? Lastly, at times, It is rather difficult to be a critically thinking responsible voter, but supporting the "capacity for justice” to save our democracy will be well worth your effort.
About the author ~
John M. Mishler was a former Associate Vice Chancellor for Research and Professor of Basic Life Sciences, Medicine, and Pharmacology at the University of Missouri. He currently resides in Harpswell, Maine.
