Legitimacy

The concept of legitimacy is crucial in any system of governance. It refers to the perceived rightfulness and authority of a government or ruler. In a democratic society, the legitimacy of a government is often derived from the will of the people. This means that if the majority of the population supports a certain decision or action, it is considered legitimate.

One interesting perspective on legitimacy is the idea of the "innocent evil" threshold. According to this concept, if the percentage of people who support a decision or action that may be considered morally questionable exceeds 51%, it is seen as the will of the people. This raises important questions about the boundaries of legitimacy and the role of public opinion in shaping governance.

However, there is a trade-off between subjectivity and usability when it comes to determining legitimacy. Subjectivity refers to personal opinions and biases, while usability refers to the practicality and effectiveness of a decision or action. Striking a balance between these two factors is crucial in maintaining a fair and functional system of governance.

In some cases, a system called subjectivocracy may be implemented. This is a form of governance where decisions are made based on subjective opinions rather than objective criteria. While this may allow for greater inclusivity and representation of diverse perspectives, it can also lead to challenges in terms of consistency and fairness.

Overall, the concept of legitimacy is complex and multifaceted. It involves considerations of public opinion, morality, and practicality. Striving for a system that balances subjectivity and usability is essential in ensuring a legitimate and effective government.