Yesterday, I finished a re-reading of The Screwtape Letters. For those of you unfamiliar with C.S. Lewis' demonic work, a quick explanation. Screwtape is a devil who writes letteres to his nephew advising him on how to corrupt a human soul. Very interesting.

At the end of many versions of the book is a short essay entitled "Screwtape Proposes a Toast." I highly recommend it for its thought provoking take on the word, the concept, and the practice of "Democracy". Again, from the demonic point of view.

According to Screwtape, the most evil thing about a democracy is the process of reducing the excellent and the forced conformity of individuals. Furthermore, Screwtape encourages the devils to not allow the humans to define Democracy, and that the humans should not be allowed to "consider Aristotles question: whether 'democractic behavior' means the behavior that democracies like or the behavior that will preserve a democracy."

I wish I had more time to write a proper essay, but alas, immenent travel prevents it. In the meantime, give it a read, I think most here would agree and disagree with Screwtape's point of view. It is as timely as ever. I'd link to the entire text online, but I couldn't find a site.

(you've also prompted me to post a slew of Lao Tzu, but I really must be going.)

Happy Solstice!