OPEN POLITICS Meaning and
Definition
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Open politics refers to a political system or approach that emphasizes transparency, inclusivity, and the active participation of citizens in decision-making processes. It seeks to dismantle traditional power structures and promote democratic values, allowing for a more accessible and accountable government.
At its core, open politics aims to ensure that political processes and decisions are made in a manner that is accessible and understandable to all citizens. This involves providing open access to information, promoting digital literacy, and fostering platforms for public engagement. By encouraging open and free communication between citizens and their representatives, open politics intends to bridge the gap between the political elite and the general public.
An essential aspect of open politics is transparency. It requires governments and institutions to be open and honest about their actions, policies, and decision-making processes. This entails disclosing relevant information to the public and providing easy access to government records. Transparency is crucial to prevent corruption, nepotism, and other hostile practices, while also fostering credibility and trust in the political system.
Moreover, open politics encourages citizen participation in decision-making processes. It recognizes that citizens are not mere recipients of policies but active stakeholders who can contribute positively to political discourse. By involving citizens in the decision-making process, open politics aspires to ensure that policies are more inclusive, representative, and responsive to the needs of the population.
Overall, open politics envisions a political landscape that values transparency, inclusivity, and citizen engagement. It seeks to empower individuals, promote collaboration between citizens and the government, and create a more democratic and accountable society.
Etymology of OPEN POLITICS
The word "open politics" is a combination of two separate terms with their own respective etymologies:1. Open: The word "open" originated from the Old English word "openian", which means "to open, disclose, or reveal". It can be traced back further to the Proto-Germanic word "opanan" and the Proto-Indo-European root "upo", which means "up from under". Over time, "open" has expanded its meaning to include concepts such as transparency, accessibility, and inclusivity.2. Politics: The term "politics" comes from the Greek word "polis", which refers to a city-state or community. In ancient Greece, "polis" was not only a physical place but also symbolized the broader concept of collective decision-making and governance. From this Greek root, the word "politics" reached Latin as "politica" and later entered the English language.
