In his article, Democracy as a Universal Value, Amartya Sen states that democracy is a universal value. To develop his argument Sen must state his definition of democracy and define what he means by universal value. During his argument, Sen explains his vision of the relationship between democracy and the economy. He then defends his vision of democracy as a universal value against a main argument regarding cultural differences between regions. Amartya Sen uses a maximal definition of democracy. Sen believes that a democracy has more qualities than simple majority rule. “Democracy is a demanding system, and not just a mechanical condition (like majority rule) taken in isolation” (Sen 5). Sen believes that democracies must have fair elections and ensure the protection of freedoms and liberties. It states: “Democracy has complex demands, which certainly include voting and respect for election results, but it also requires the protection of liberties and liberties, respect for legal rights and the guarantee of free discussion and uncensored distribution of news and fair comments" (5). Sen says elections can be flawed and unfair if they are held in the absence of freedoms that allow opposing parties to present their views and the electorate to listen to them and discuss their views. When democracy is practiced correctly, Sen believes there are three different ways it can enrich the lives of its citizens. “First, political freedom is a part of human freedom in general, and the exercise of civil and political rights is a crucial part of the good life of individuals as social beings” (5). Second, democracy increases the level of government recognition that people enjoy individual freedom. However, Islamic culture, along with most major cultures, is also very diverse and the monolithic interpretation of Islam would not bear critical scrutiny. Furthermore, many Islamic emperors often represented greater political and religious tolerance than their European counterparts (8). Sen believes that democracy offers political freedom, increases the influence people have on government, and helps societies form values. All this enriches the lives of citizens and increases their quality of life (5). Because democracy increases the quality of life, people everywhere would have a very good reason to consider it valuable. Therefore, democracy must be considered a universal value. I think Amartya Sen's argument is very valid and supported by good examples. I agree with Sen that democracy should be considered a universal value.