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READER LETTER: What are the tell-tale signs of a civil service undermining democracy?

READER LETTER: What are the tell-tale signs of a civil service undermining democracy?

Tuesday 21 March 2023

READER LETTER: What are the tell-tale signs of a civil service undermining democracy?

Tuesday 21 March 2023


After reading an article in which Express asked AI chatbot ChatGPT to write poems about various aspects of island life, one reader decided to ask the robo-writer a more serious question.

Former Infrastructure Minister Eddie Noel asked ChatGPT, 'What are the tell-tale signs of a civil service that has become too powerful and seeks to undermine democracy?', and shared its answer with Express...

"There are several tell-tale signs that a civil service may have become too powerful and is seeking to undermine democracy. These include:

  1. Operates outside the scope of the democratic process: A civil service that operates outside of the democratic process is a clear indicator of a lack of democratic accountability. This may include making decisions that are not subject to public scrutiny or debate, or engaging in practices that are not in line with the needs of the people.

  2. Lacks transparency: A civil service that lacks transparency is another sign that it may be seeking to undermine democracy. This may include a lack of public reporting or disclosure of information, or the use of bureaucratic processes that are difficult for the public to understand.

  3. Blocks or obstructs the work of elected officials: A civil service that seeks to block or obstruct the work of elected officials is a clear indicator of a power imbalance. This may include refusing to implement policies or decisions made by elected officials or slowing down the implementation of such decisions.

  4. Becomes too entrenched: A civil service that becomes too entrenched or resistant to change can also be a sign that it is seeking to undermine democracy. This may include a lack of willingness to consider new ideas or approaches or resistance to reform efforts.

  5. Operates with too much autonomy: A civil service that operates with too much autonomy can also be a sign that it is seeking to undermine democracy. This may include making decisions that are not subject to democratic oversight or engaging in practices that are not in line with democratic principles.

In summary, a civil service that has become too powerful and seeks to undermine democracy can exhibit a lack of democratic accountability, transparency, and responsiveness. It may also be resistant to change, operate outside the scope of the democratic process, and operate with too much autonomy."

READ MORE...

Artificial Intelligence or Artful Insanity? AI poet pokes fun at island life

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