The rise of mediocrity in the ineptocracy

Many governments and organizations have made a quiet but historically significant movement away from democracy and into ineptocracy, leaving people across the globe to suffer the consequences.

The phrase “ineptocracy” was created by fusing the words “ineptitude” and “ocracy” (ruling by). It alludes to a form of government in which those with the lowest qualifications are chosen or appointed to positions of authority and decision-making.

The phrase is frequently used humorously or satirically to attack the apparent incompetence or ineffectiveness of a political system or a government. An ineptocracy may be characterized by widespread corruption, nepotism, and incompetence among individuals in positions of authority. As a result, the populace may experience bad governance, resource mismanagement, and other undesirable effects. The term “ineptocracy” is a neologism that has gained some traction in public speech rather than a formal political or scholarly notion. Although there are many different and complex reasons why an ineptocracy could develop, the following are some common causes:

• Lack of merit-based selection can lead to a government made up of inept or inexperienced officials when people are appointed to positions of authority based on their political connections, personal relationships, or other factors that have little to do with their skills or qualifications.
• Corruption and nepotism: Instead of concentrating on the concerns of the general populace, officials in an ineptocracy frequently utilize their position of authority to benefit themselves or their friends and family. This could lead to a government that prioritizes preserving privilege and power over advancing the common good.
• Lack of accountability: In some instances, leaders in an ineptocracy may not be held accountable for their decisions, even when those decisions are obviously harmful to the populace’s well-being. Because of this, a climate of impunity may develop, allowing individuals in positions of authority to behave more in their own interests than in the interests of the people they are entrusted to represent.
• Weak civil society: A strong civil society, which includes independent media, NGOs, and other organizations, may support transparency and good governance while also helping to hold politicians accountable. However, these institutions may be ineffective or nonexistent in an ineptocracy, which makes it simpler for the ruling class to behave without consequence.

But how these unfortunate historical transitions occurred, we may ask? Without in any way exhausting the causes of this historical unexpected phenomenon that erodes nations and institutions, we endeavor to call some of them. The change from democracy to ineptocracy can be attributed to particular occurrences or circumstances. Examples of these events or circumstances include: 1) Economic crisis: An unstable and uncertain environment might make it easier for authorities to cement their control and stifle criticism. In certain instances, leaders may use the crisis as a justification to consolidate power, attack democratic institutions, or implement laws that are advantageous to them or their followers; 2) Political polarization: It can be problematic to find common ground and cooperate toward shared objectives when political polarization is high. Instead of trying to rule in the best interests of the public, some leaders may use this polarization to achieve their personal agendas. As a result, democratic institutions and norms can deteriorate, and people might have less faith in the executive branch; 3) External dangers: External dangers, like terrorism or armed conflict, can engender a state of anxiety and unease that leaders may capitalize on as justification for authoritarian actions. Leaders may employ external threats to bolster their popularity and suppress criticism; 4) Natural catastrophes: Natural catastrophes have the potential to cause disorder and disruption, which can be manipulated by authorities to bolster the grip on power and erode democratic institutions. Sometimes, authorities will use a calamity as an excuse to pass emergency laws that restrict civil freedoms or strengthen their own authority.

Contrary to widely held opinion, French philosopher Jean d’Ormesson did not invent the word “ineptocracy”. A renowned author, philosopher, and member of the Académie Française Jean d’Ormesson passed away in 2017. However, there is no proof to support the claim that he coined the word “ineptocracy.” The term’s precise origin is unknown, and it appears to have entered the common conversation in the early 21st century.

The fundamental question now, for the common citizen wanting to reverse the unfortunate status is, how can he, the common, reverse it. Helás! If a country has transitioned from democracy to ineptocracy, it can be challenging for the common citizen to effect change. But the primary steps that citizens can take to promote democracy and good governance pass by staying informed, participating in civil society, holding leaders accountable, promoting civic education, build coalitions. Certainly, the task is daunting.

Originally published at http://soulofmatter.wordpress.com on May 6, 2023.