This textbook brings together an introduction to the political theory of democracy since Ancient times and a critical picture of its place in Britain today.The author examines the work of Plato and Aristotle, Rousseau and Mill, Marx and Weber, and locates them and others in the debate about what democracy means. He then scrutinises Britain's claim to be a developing democracy, from the power of the Prime Minister and the role of political parties to the influence of pressure groups and the media, as well as recent constitutional changes.In the context of declining public trust in political institutions and increasing reluctance to vote, crucial questions are tackled: do we have a democracy, and why does it matter?
Author(s): Matt Cole
Year: 2006
Language: English
Pages: 160
Contents......Page 6
Boxes......Page 9
Introduction......Page 12
PART I: THEORY......Page 16
CHAPTER 1 Representation, Liberty and Democracy......Page 18
CHAPTER 2 The Origins of Democracy......Page 41
CHAPTER 3 The Emergence of Representative Democracy......Page 61
CHAPTER 4 The Westminster Model......Page 90
CHAPTER 5 Critiques of British Democracy......Page 110
CHAPTER 6 The Remedies......Page 140
CHAPTER 7 Conclusion: The Puzzle of Participation......Page 162
References......Page 177
Index......Page 182
