Democracies do have written rules {constitutions} and referees {the courts}. But these work best, and survive longest, in countries where written constitutions are reinforced by their own unwritten rules of the game. These rules or norms serve as the soft guardrails of democracy, preventing day-to-day political competition from devolving into a no-holds-barred conflict.
Democracies are built on the foundation of written constitutions and judicial systems that help uphold the rule of law. However, their effectiveness is greatly enhanced in nations where these formal regulations are supported by unwritten norms and rules of conduct. These informal guidelines act as protective barriers that ensure political engagement remains constructive rather than devolving into chaotic and aggressive rivalry.
In "How Democracies Die," Steven Levitsky emphasizes that these soft guardrails are crucial for maintaining stability and promoting healthy political dialogue. When both written and unwritten rules coexist and are respected, democracies can flourish and adapt, safeguarding their longevity against potential erosion due to extreme partisanship or conflict.