I don’t disagree. I think what you’re proposing is indeed a more truly decentralized model.

But ultimately the real world is where we need progress and as long as the internet (and language as a whole) exists there will be actors attempting to manipulate the narrative to their benefit by any means possible.

I do think democracy can be subject to manipulation regardless of ones ideals of altruism. Sometimes people are not adequately educated and then their input into a democratic system only serves to harm the collective. It may be time for new models of governance within society and communities wherever they may exist.