[so_real]

The purpose of republic is to defend MINORITY rights, not MAJORITY wishes. You're thinking of democracy. Republicanism is the solution to democracy's tyranny.

Not entirely so. Sometimes the MAJORITY has it right and need their rights protected (ie. the attempt of a homosexual minority to coerce the majority's heterosexual marriage). I view a "republic" as a system of government that allows the cream to float and the crud to sink even while handing everyone the same paddle. (Gosh, that's cute, I better write that down.)

[beavus]

Not entirely so. Sometimes the MAJORITY has it right and need their rights protected (ie. the attempt of a homosexual minority to coerce the majority's heterosexual marriage). I view a "republic" as a system of government that allows the cream to float and the crud to sink even while handing everyone the same paddle. (Gosh, that's cute, I better write that down.)

What you speak of is factionalism and is a problem in any form of government, but more so in democracy than republicanism. Republicanism protects minority rights by protecting individual rights. Majorities consist of individuals.

In the end, its about restricting anyone from being able to impose his views on anyone else.