The mob-rule gambit wears thin. It is not anarchy for folks to vote on their hometown's blueprint under referenda allowed by state law. The sky will not fall, the sun blink out or our forefathers rise from the netherworld if we pass Amendment 4. Thomas Jefferson openly plugged county level democracy with ward votes, that all men be heard.

 

One need only read their works to glean that for Jefferson and revolutionary firebrand Thomas Paine, the "democracy is dangerous" claim wasn't true. Paine called American government "representation grafted on democracy" -- with democracy the goal. Jefferson plainly said representatives were bound to obey the people's instruction. Reps were means to effect democracy in a large land with a far-flung populace.

Alexander Hamilton might cheer Donald E. Smith's "Key is right public servants" (My Word, Orlando Sentinel, Wednesday). But Jefferson was duly appalled at Hamilton's oligarchic machinations to foment legislator corruption at the people's expense.

Amendment 4 foes fudge when they imply blanket "founder" opposition to direct plebiscite. Jefferson might duck being lumped with power snobs cutting the people's voice from their own town's future.

He left a long paper trail advising a healthy, active role by Americans in their government as crucial to curb despotism. He was eerily specific about citizens' prerogatives to change their constitutions for the better.

In disparaging as "NIMBYs" residents fighting for life quality and an ecologically intact Florida, Smith might sway some that "public servants look out for your best interests." But I'll trust Jefferson -- and Amendment 4.

Rebecca Eagan Winter Park