Srinagar, Dec. 30 -- The debate over whether democracy is the best form of government has persisted for centuries. It involves weighing the ideals of popular rule against the practical shortcomings seen in real-world politics. The common consensus is often summed up by Winston Churchill's famous observation that democracy is "the worst form of government, except for all those other forms that have been tried from time to time." This wry remark captures both democracy's flaws and its enduring appeal.

Critics of democracy point to several serious weaknesses. One major concern is voter ignorance and irrationality. In complex modern societies, public policy demands technical knowledge and long-term thinking, yet many voters may lack either t...