MAS-ICNA 2013: "Democracy or 'Shura'?" - Tariq Ramadan (Part 2 of 2)

What are the similarities and differences between democracy and Shura and how can we deal with democracy in our contemporary transactions. Allah says "...... His is the creation and the command..." (7:54). Allah acknowledged the influence of people in making their decisions as he mentioned "....and whose affair is [determined by] consultation among themselves...." (42:38). This means we should align ourselves with the commands of Allah and our majority vote can't overweigh Allah's command, if in conflict. How can we understand the role of people that Allah gave them during the process of "Shura" in comparison to what democracy is giving them according to the famous statement describing democracy as "the rule of the people, by the people." How can we bring the name and meaning of "Shura" to our contemporary global framework while everyone aspires to adopt "Democracy