In his essays “Considerations on Representative Government” and “On Liberty,” John Stuart Mill presents a compelling argument for representative democracy. The system he proposes establishes the necessary balance between the “philosopher kings” advocated by Plato and the directly democratic government by the “general will” that Rousseau defends. Mill considers that a system like Plato's is essentially ruled by a "good despot". Although it may be well-intentioned, Mill believes that this system will never adequately meet the desires of the population. And even if he largely subscribes to the principles of direct democracy advocated by Jean-Jacques Rousseau, he shows that this is not achievable in a state system. Despite some aspects of Mill's proposal that concern me, what he presents is a vision of a real alternative. Mill's system might actually transcend the problems associated with confusing utopian direct democracy with effective despotism. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get the original essay Mill's vision of government is that of an elected governing body responsible for making the laws of the state, with the representatives who comprise this body chosen through a process of universal suffrage. All citizens have the right to vote, but not everyone will receive the same number of votes. Mill advocated a system known as plural voting; the most educated people would receive more than one vote. Mill also hoped that every citizen would at some point be called upon to hold a position in public service. Finally, he advocated a set of rights that would protect the fundamental freedoms of all and prevent a "tyranny of the majority." (On Liberty, ch.1, Considerations on Representative Government, November 6 lecture) Mill believes that a government run by the general public is the only way to safeguard the interests and liberty of all citizens. He bases this on the assertion that people generally act in their own self-interest. Therefore, any government that does not give everyone a role in its administration will only act in the interest of the governors themselves. (Considerations) Rousseau and other supporters of direct democracy share this opinion. They call for a system in which all laws are made by popular vote. (The Social Contract) Plato argues that the general population is not intelligent or responsible enough to make decisions that affect the affairs of the state. It calls on an elite class known as "guardians" to legislate based on moralistic considerations. (The Republic)In representative democracy, both considerations are taken into account. People choose representatives who will fight for issues they believe benefit their personal interests. These representatives are obligated to vote on their behalf when laws are made for the necessity of their re-election. This prevents governors from acting in their own interest; if they are deemed capable of doing so, they will be removed from power. Although there is no guarantee that only intelligent people are elected, it is difficult to avoid this situation due to the competitive nature of the electoral process. Mill's system creates a small ruling group of intelligent individuals, much like Plato's, but these leaders are accountable to and at the mercy of the people. Mill's method of plural voting also has merit, but is more problematic. Mill believes that this system will help ensure that intelligent decisions are made..