Why do we use the word “Republic” rather than “State”?

The connotation, the general perception of the word “State” is currently associated with violence and disrespectful attitude towards the people^[1]. The concept of “State” is associated with autocrats, empires, statesmen and sovereigns. The general mood of the concept of the state is in opposition to the people. The people do not expect anything good from the state and want to have as little to do with it as possible, unless it is, of course, the plundering of public funds.

On the other hand, people expect decisions, assistance, and pensions from the “State” as if it were some external factor that has nothing to do with the people themselves. People are so far removed from organising their own social life that they perceive the state as something alien that owes them some benefits.

The word “republic” means “common cause”. In a republic, everyone can find an activity that is as close to their hearts as possible. At least that is the purpose of this enlightened Republic. The highest principles of such a Republic are described in spiritual and historical sources, and our task is to fill these principles with practical actions in accordance with the situation. A common cause is a common cause. The system should be built in such a way that everyone, within the limits of their capabilities and rights, can help the functioning of the common cause. Not only by paying taxes, which, by the way, can be easily stolen, but also by public work, making relevant local decisions, ensuring transparency, control and information at all levels.

Ensure the protection of their basic rights on the ground and in delegated institutions. All of this must be done by you and me, consciously devoting our time and efforts to it. The community can be demanding of local leaders and institutions. And for the community to become organised and systemic, it needs training, education and transparent rules that everyone, even lawyers, can understand. This basic education is precisely the cornerstone of an Enlightened Republic. Those who are educated in these basic principles can take part in governance and decision-making, and those who do not want to be educated can have their gas turned off. They should not make public decisions.

By rejecting the word “state”, we reject the connection of our consciousness with everything violent and anti-national that has been reaching out to us since previous historical times.

In relation to Ukraine, we do not renounce Ukraine. On the contrary, we emphasise that Ukraine can become our common cause, and in many ways it has, thanks to the war. Are we really going to be so stupid that only war can engage us in the common cause of ordering our own social life?

1. This and other evaluative judgements are based solely on the author’s own experience, his communication with close and distant circles of like-minded and caring people. The author does not present the results of official or unofficial research. Only one thing is more or less obvious: the etymology of the word “State” and the historical background of the use of this word. The editorial board encourages you to indicate your attitude to these statements of the author, preferably with arguments in the comments. ↑