Home Philosophy Democracy: A Very Short Introduction

Democracy: A Very Short Introduction

by Zack, Naomi

Regular price $13.10 USD
Regular price $21.84 USD Sale price $13.10 USD

You save $8.74 USD (40%)

In stock — Ships within 1–2 business days

Format

Print Book Currently viewing Paperback $13.10 USD $21.84 USD
Condition
Secure CheckoutYour data is protected
Fast U.S. ShippingShips within 1–2 business days
Authentic Titles100% Genuine Books
Book Overview Very Short Introductions: Brilliant, Sharp, Inspiring Democracy refers to both ideal and real forms of government. The concept of democr...
Very Short Introductions: Brilliant, Sharp, Inspiring

Democracy refers to both ideal and real forms of government. The concept of democracy means that those governed -- the demos -- have a say in government. But different conceptions of democracy have left many out. Naomi Zack provides here a fresh treatment of the history of this idea and its key conceptions. In the ancient world, direct and representative democracy in Athens and Rome privileged elites, as did democratic deliberative bodies in Africa, India, the Middle East, and China. Plato, Aristotle, and Cicero were sceptical of mob-rule dangers of democracy. The medieval and renaissance periods saw legislative checks on monarchy, notably the Magna Carta. The social contract theories of Thomas Hobbes, John Locke, and Jean-Jacques Rousseau matched political expectations that national government be based on consent, for the benefit of those governed. The American Revolution established a new sovereignty, based on British government tradition. By contrast, the French Revolution heralded universal humanitarian ideals.

In the nineteenth century, Jeremy Bentham, John Stuart Mill, Immanuel Kant, and Karl Marx focused on the democratization of society. Mary Wollstonecraft had championed women's education and rights and Mill advocated further for that cause. Movements for the abolition of slavery, women's suffrage, and labour unionization were organized. World War II brought a reset in the twentieth century, with new democratic governments for many countries, including India and South Africa, and new ideals. Karl Popper, Hannah Arendt, and John Rawls emphasized orderly government transition, inclusion, and fairness. Equalitarian goals have concerned racial and ethnic minorities, as well as women. The twenty-first century has brought fresh challenges, including disasters and uninformed electorates. Democracy among nations is a future goal.


ABOUT THE SERIES: The Very Short Introductions series from Oxford University Press contains hundreds of titles in almost every subject area. These pocket-sized books are the perfect way to get ahead in a new subject quickly. Our expert authors combine facts, analysis, perspective, new ideas, and enthusiasm to make interesting and challenging topics highly readable.

Book Details Format: Paperback | Pages: 192 | Language: English | Publisher: OXFORD UNIV PR | ISBN: 0192845063
FormatPaperback
Pages192
LanguageEnglish
ISBN0192845063
EAN9780192845061
PublisherOXFORD UNIV PR
Publication Date1970-01-01
AccessoriesNo Accessory
ConditionNew
Product TypeQUALITY PAPERBACK BOOKS
Weight0.25 Pounds
Length6.5 Inches
Width4.5 Inches
Height0.6 Inches
Shipping & Returns Fast, reliable shipping and easy returns on eligible items.

Most orders ship within 1–2 business days with fast, reliable U.S. delivery.

Eligible items can be returned within 30 days in line with our store return policy.

Why shop with AlbakiReads

Fresh Inventory from Major Publishers

Sourced through trusted book distributors, with fresh titles added regularly.

Secure Checkout

Your payment information is encrypted and protected every step of the way.

Fast U.S. Shipping

Most orders ship within 1–2 business days.

Books for Every Kind of Reader

From page-turners to timeless classics—find your next favorite read.