Many different forms of government have existed throughout civilization. Theocracy, dictatorships, democracy, and many others have all had periods where they have ruled as the government of choice. Arguments could be made in favor of each form of government. The key to finding the most viable form of government is to consider this: What form of government provides the most stability to the state? The stability of the state rests on the foundations of government. Weak foundations lead to short-lived or miserable nations. Governments based on religion, birthright, or one man are generally not built on solid foundations. The best foundation a government can have is the support of its citizens. Governments that respond to the will and needs of their citizens receive their support. This is the basis of the social contract. When a population believes that its needs are met, it believes that it must honor its social contract. Honoring this contract may include paying taxes, supporting the military, voting, performing community service, or whatever the government requires of its citizens. The opposite is true when the government fails to meet these needs. Historically, in the absence of a stable government, citizens first stop supporting the government, start calling for a new government, and eventually revolt. The current situation in Libya is a current example. Because the current government, led by Muammar Gaddafi, has placed the well-being and will of its citizens below those of the politicians who run the country, unrest among citizens has paved the way for calls for democracy, a type of government in which the people have a voice. As these calls went unanswered, the situation...... middle of paper ...... is the same for mediocrity and excellence. Capitalism “capitalizes” on the hard work and innovation that citizens can bring to the economy. This dynamic lifts the economy to higher levels, thereby strengthening the stability of the government. Ultimately, a government cannot exist for any significant period of time without the support of its people. While I and others may have an opinion on what is the best form of government today, the answer is constantly evolving. The truth is that government works if the people who govern it believe that it does and support it. Citizens are the pillars that provide support and stability to any government. In recent years, political situations around the world have illustrated this point. Governments are made to support their citizens and when they fulfill this role, they are stable, prosperous and sustainable. Works Cited Introduction to Political Science