Ideology: Capitalism vs. Democracy and Postcolonial Sovereignty
At our next event we will explore two urgent and timeless questions that shape political life today. The goal is to open space for rigorous dialogue that is accessible, curious, and grounded in real world stakes.
1. Capitalism vs. Democracy: Can genuine democracy exist under capitalism?
Democracy rests on equality, participation, and collective decision making. Capitalism rests on competition, accumulation, and inequality. Can these systems truly coexist? Does capitalism undermine democracy by concentrating wealth and power in the hands of a few, or can market economies support democratic freedoms by promoting growth and choice?
This is not just theory. It speaks to crises of political legitimacy, corporate influence over elections, and the widening gap between rich and poor.
2. Postcolonialism: Has sovereignty ever truly existed for formerly colonised states?
Decolonisation brought flags, parliaments, and constitutions. Did it also bring genuine sovereignty? Many postcolonial states remain embedded in financial regimes, military alliances, and trade dependencies that resemble older hierarchies. Are these nations truly free, or is sovereignty an illusion shaped by neocolonial pressures and international institutions?
Asking this question invites us to rethink what independence means in the 21st century and whether postcolonial futures can move beyond the shadow of empire.
This session is not about finding one single answer. It is an invitation to question, to argue, and to reimagine. Whether you are a politics student, curious about world affairs, or simply looking to sharpen your thinking, you will engage with ideas that cut to the core of how societies are organised and governed.
- Open discussion with guided prompts and audience interventions
- Accessible framing for all levels of familiarity
- Space for competing perspectives and constructive disagreement
Join us for a night of debate, discussion, and critical thinking. Bring your perspectives, your questions, and your best hot takes. At the Political Discourse Society, ideology is never abstract. It is a lens for understanding power, freedom, and the world we live in.
