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SALT LAKE CITY -- State senators engaged in a lively debate Wednesday over the meanings of democracy, republic and even socialism in the American form of government.
At issue is HB220, a bill that would mandate Utah's public schools teach that the United States is a "constitutional compound republic."
I believe it's accurate to characterize it as a democratically-elected republic. We are all truly accountable to the people of Utah.
–Sen. Ben McAdams
"I think it's refreshing and necessary," said Sen. Mark Madsen, R-Lehi.
Madsen said when he speaks to school classes, he asks what form of government the United States has.
"It shouldn’t be a trick question," he said, "but too often I get the wrong answer."
The United States is a republic, he said. A democracy, Madsen said, is "three foxes and two chickens trying to decide what to have for dinner. It doesn't end well."
Sen. Ben McAdams, D-Salt Lake, said calling the U.S. government system a republic oversimplifies it.
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"I believe it's accurate to characterize it as a democratically-elected republic," he said, noting people vote directly for initiatives, referendums and officeholders. "We are all truly accountable to the people of Utah."
In addition, McAdams said the Legislature shouldn't be dictating education curriculum.
Despite Democrats questioning the necessity of the requirement, the Senate preliminarily approved the bill 28-0. It still needs a final vote.
An amendment to the bill would insert socialism as a form of government to study.
Sen. Gene Davis, D-Salt Lake, said socialism may be an act of government but is not aform of government.
"Public education is a great example of socialism in our country. It has served us very, very well," he said.
Sen. John Valentine, R-Orem, said socialism is a form of government because it reflects that the government owns everything.
"I fully grant that we have allowed socialism to creep into our republic," he said. "I think that needs to be taught."
Madsen said socialism "may safely be called a derivation of absolute democracy."
E-mail: dromboy@ksl.com
