Rohini Nilekani Quotes

Some observers compare elections in some countries with sports events, where people are but spectators. Moreover, elections must not be mere interludes for pushing a lever and then retreating to passivity, for democracy demands committed participation in the daily workings of society.

We always hear about the rights of democracy, but the major responsibility of it is participation.

What's wrong is that we are not participating to make this the type of government it needs to be.

As citizens, we have to co-create good governance, we cannot outsource it and hope to be passively happy consumers. Like everything worth its while, good governance must be earned.

The role of citizen in our democracy does not end with your vote.

The era of big government is over, but the era of big challenge is not. We need an era of big citizenship. There are many important people at this summit, but the most important title is 'citizen.' This is our republic. Let us keep it!

Tocqueville talked about "ceaseless agitation," citizens constantly use their institutions, constantly challenging them, constantly insisting upon their rights. It's also individuals taking responsibility for other individuals, recognition that no democracy works if they're weaklings.

In the final analysis it doesn't really matter what the political system is...We don't need perfect political systems; we need perfect participation.

I believe to go along to get along is unpatriotic. I believe that agreeing with your government on everything they do is unpatriotic. I believe a patriot stands up and holds your government's feet to the fire. Because if you do that, you will get good government.

Democracy is not a spectator sport, it's a participatory event. If we don't participate in it, it ceases to be a democracy.

And they understand that to be an effective member of a democracy, you have to accept responsibility.

A functioning, robust democracy requires a healthy educated, participatory followership, and an educated, morally grounded leadership.

The unique thing about our country is that we don't get behind politicians, politicians get behind us.

I call on people to be 'obsessed citizens,' forever questioning and asking for accountability. That's the only chance we have today of a healthy and happy life.

Democracy is not something you believe in or a place to hang your hat, but it's something you do. You participate. If you stop doing it, democracy crumbles.

Politics is not a spectator sport. You can't just sit on the sidelines.

Democracy is not a spectator sport.

Democracy is not something we have, it's something we do.

A government is invigorated when each of us is willing to participate in shaping the future of this nation

Democracy is not a spectator sport. It is a difficult, hard, full-contact, participatory endeavor.

Democracy is stronger, is better, is more robust when people participate. We should want to encourage that.

Democracy is something you have to participate in.

Americans need to be engaged and invested in the legislative process that affects their daily lives, otherwise we are just democracy in name only.

Be aware and hold the government accountable.

Our communities are strong because local leaders and active citizens listen and learn from the people they serve.