In dictatorial regimes throughout the world any attempt to unravel the status quo maintained by iron fist, is usually met with brutal resistance where the power structure will stop at nothing, to silence those who call for basic human rights in an atmosphere of a free and decent society.While that in itself is a horror story, it is nothing new in most dictatorial regimes and serves as a warning to those in a democratic society, that even in the so called free world, Governments immersed in power, if not watched carefully, can become dangerous.Being watched carefully involves highly skilled and dedicated journalists, a powerful opposition, along with people who really care whether what is being done is purely in the best interest of the populace, or beneath the surface is really to benefit special interests, and to preserve political power.Although we have heard much of this before, the potential for any Government to drift away from principles trumpeted across the hills while seeking power, is never far away. Too often blatant denial can lead to conditions where truth is blurred and confusion reigns when those in authority resent being forcefully challenged on issues of major concern.In small jurisdictions where the mixture of political support is deeply interwoven and entrenched such as Bermuda, to avoid offending a friend or relative the subject of politics is often left at the doorstep. To some degree this is not difficult to understand.However on the other hand it can leave important matters that should be intelligently discussed , simply hanging in the air.The pages of history have been written with much blood spilled over misguided objectives by one group or another when challenged by those seeking a new day of justice and freedom for all. Thousands of lives were lost during the American civil war over that issue. To this day America is still trying to move away from the stains of that period when bitterness and hatred reigned.Governments in small and large jurisdictions can become dangerous when it becomes clear that their words seem out of step with their actions. Modern communication systems of the day make it extremely difficult for any Government to engage in image posturing while falling short in ensuring that protecting the rights of the people is their highest priority.Bermuda should be learning from its own mistakes, in addition to learning from the mistakes of others. The price of living in denial at times can be very high.There are very successful Egyptians who could be basking under the sun in another country, but decided to join their follow countrymen in daily protests calling for an immediate change in leadership, which they hope will pave the way for a new age of freedom. People were savagely beaten and killed for daring to protest a system that stifles freedom of expression.It should be remembered that during the Nazi German regime there were people who adored Adolf Hitler and viewed him as the leader who would lead the country to utopia.That is until reality came crushing down, burying their false dreams along with their leader. As one commentator on the subject said, Hitler's defeat was really a victory for the German people.Some may take the view that all of this has nothing to do with Bermuda. The lessons of history affect us all.We are a small country but we have big problems especially with certain segments of our society who seem determined to have their own version of rules for life. Yet Bermuda appears to be in denial when it comes to why there are so many young angry people obsessed with anti social behaviour.We tend to write them off as a small group who need proper guidance in order to walk in step with a peaceful society. Many of these people have already been swallowed up by the dark underworld of illegal drugs and crime.That is not an easy situation to turn around. Too often we ignore the fact that serious parental negligence during the early stages started the ball rolling in what we are experiencing today. A tree will grow crooked if left unattended during the early stages.The same holds true for any Government. If they are not watched closely, well intentioned motives could be pushed aside as political survival becomes the prime objectives. When that happens any Government can become dangerous.