Nagaño, Loraine Mycyla T.

Reading & Writing

Dynasties in Democracies: The Political Side of Inequality
Dynasties in democracies provide an important barrier in developing
equality and inclusive government. This study agrees with the points provided in
the video "Dynasties in Democracies: The Political Side of Inequality" and
highlights data from the Philippines that supports these views. By understanding
the negative impacts of political dynasties, we can better understand the need of
discussing this issue and developing a more equal political environment.

One of the main reasons against political dynasties is to centralize power

within a few family, increasing inequality and limiting political participation for
oppressed groups. In the Philippines, this may be found in the appearance of
political dynasties at all levels of government. According to a survey conducted
by the Asian Institute of Management Policy Center, more than 70% of members
in the Philippine Congress come from political dynasties. This concentration of
power not only limits the opportunity for other qualified individuals to run for
power, but it also keeps socioeconomic imbalances and restricts different views
from being effectively represented.

In political dynasties, lack of meritocracy and nepotism often prioritize

biological relationships over excellence, resulting in selection of underqualified or
inexperienced individuals to positions of power. This act goes against the ideals
of fair competition and degrades governance quality. Many cases of hypocrisy
within political dynasties have been noticed in the Philippines. The story of the
Ampatuan family in Maguindanao, for example, demonstrates how family ties
were favored over talent when they were able to occupy many important posts at
the same time. Such policies not only affect the possibility for good
administration, but they also limit equal opportunities to talented individuals who
may beneficially contribute to public service.
 Political dynasties that limit political competition reducing voters' choices
and promoting a sense of alienation. Various elections in the Philippines have
demonstrated the strength of political dynasties. Many areas and districts are
ruled by dynastic families, making it difficult for fresh or independent candidates
to challenge them. This lack of competition weakens the democratic values of
choice and participation, giving voters fewer choices and lessening the liveliness
of political discussion.

Political dynasties often promote their own interests and maintain passed
hierarchies, limiting the implementation of important policy improvements and
preventing social growth. The effect of political dynasties was demonstrated in
the Philippines in the opposition to major changes aimed at limiting their power.
Efforts to pass an anti-political dynasty bill have consistently failed in Congress,
with numerous dynastic politicians voting against such legislation. This delays the
possibility of progressive policy changes that may reduce inequality, promote
social fairness, and enhance long-term growth.

Political dynasties in democracies, like the Philippines, have obvious

negative effects on governance, meritocracy, voter choice, and policy reform.
The information given in this study highlights how important it is to address this
issue and develop a more welcoming and equal political system. Efforts should
be made to implement and enhance anti-political dynasty legislation, promote
merit-based selection processes, foster political competition, and raise public
understanding about the negative effects of dynastic rule. By following these
actions, we may move toward a more dynamic and engaged democracy that
promotes the ideals of equality and justice for everyone.