The Complexities of Referenda in Democracy

This chapter explores the multifaceted challenges and ethical implications of using referenda as a tool for resolving political issues, focusing on the Australian context. It highlights the potential for negative impacts on democratic debates, especially concerning marginalized groups, while weighing the benefits of public consultation against governmental decision-making. The discussion also emphasizes the importance of constitutional processes and the historical struggles of First Nations communities, illustrating the dehumanizing effects of treating social issues as mere topics of debate.