A Cultural History of Democracy

66 experts explore how democracy has been understood, manifested, reimagined, and represented through the ages, with case material illustrating the physical, social, and cultural contexts of democracy in Western culture from antiquity to the present. The paperback edition of the full six-volume set is the most comprehensive and authoritative survey available on democracy throughout history, covering 1. Antiquity (500 BCE–565 CE); 2. Medieval Age (565–1450); 3. Renaissance (1450–1650); 4. Age of Enlightenment (1650–1800); 5. Age of Empire (1800–1920); 6. Modern Age (1920–present).

Format: Multiple-component retail product
Publication date: 08 February 2024
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

The concept of democracy has undergone a profound and multifaceted evolution throughout history, shaped by various cultural, social, and political contexts. In a comprehensive work spanning 2,500 years, 66 esteemed experts come together to explore these fundamental questions, offering their insights into the diverse interpretations, manifestations, reimaginings, and representations of democracy across different periods. Through a rich array of case material, these experts illustrate the physical, social, and cultural contexts of democracy in Western culture, spanning from antiquity to the present.

Individual volume editors ensure coherence and ease of use by maintaining identical chapter themes across all six volumes. The paperback edition of this comprehensive six-volume set presents the most comprehensive and authoritative survey available on democracy throughout history.

The six volumes of the Cultural History of Democracy cover a wide range of historical periods:

Antiquity (500 BCE–565 CE): This volume delves into the origins and early development of democracy in ancient civilizations such as Athens and Rome. It explores the concept of governance by the people, the role of citizenship, and the influence of political philosophy on democratic systems.

Medieval Age (565–1450): During this period, democracy took different forms in various European kingdoms and empires. It focused on the balance of power between monarchs, aristocracy, and the church and the struggle for political and social equality.

Renaissance (1450–1650): The Renaissance saw a renewed interest in humanism, individualism, and the pursuit of knowledge. It led to the development of new political ideas, such as republicanism and civic humanism, which emphasized the importance of citizen participation and the rule of law.

Age of Enlightenment (1650–1800): The Age of Enlightenment marked a significant shift in political thought. It emphasized the importance of reason, science, and individual liberty and paved the way for the emergence of modern democratic systems.

Age of Empire (1800–1920): This period witnessed the rise of European colonialism and the establishment of empires across the world. It raised questions about the legitimacy of imperial rule and the rights and freedoms of colonized peoples.

Modern Age (1920–present): The Modern Age has seen the continued evolution of democratic systems, with the rise of new political movements, globalization, and the challenges of emerging technologies. It has also witnessed the rise of authoritarianism and the decline of democratic norms in some regions.

Each volume of the Cultural History of Democracy explores ten key themes that are central to the understanding of democracy:

Sovereignty: This theme examines the concept of political authority. It explores the power and authority of governments, the distribution of power, and the relationship between the state and its citizens.

Liberty: Liberty encompasses the rights and freedoms of individuals within a democratic society. It examines the nature of freedom, the limits of government power, and the protection of individual rights and freedoms.

The "common good": The "common good" refers to the shared interests and values of a community or society. It explores the role of government in promoting social welfare, economic equality, and the well-being of all members.

Economic and social democracy: Economic and social democracy emphasizes the role of government in regulating the economy and ensuring social justice. It explores the principles of economic equality, social welfare, and the distribution of resources.

Religion and the principles of political obligation: Religion has played a significant role in shaping democratic systems throughout history. This theme examines the relationship between religion and politics, the role of religious institutions in shaping political discourse, and the principles of political obligation that guide democratic governance.

Gender and citizenship: Gender has been a central issue in democratic discourse since the beginning. This theme explores the role of women in democratic societies, the challenges of gender equality, and the rights and freedoms of gender minorities.

Ethnicity, race, and nationalism: Ethnicity, race, and nationalism have been powerful forces shaping democratic systems and political identities. This theme examines the historical and contemporary dynamics of ethnicity, race, and nationalism, their impact on democratic processes, and the challenges of promoting inclusive and democratic societies.

Democratic processes, revolutions, and civil resistance: Democratic processes involve the participation of citizens in decision-making processes. This theme explores the mechanisms of democratic governance, the role of political parties, elections, and the processes of revolutions and civil resistance.

International relations: Democracy is inherently interconnected with international relations. This theme examines the relationship between democracy, international organizations, and the global order, the challenges of promoting democracy in the international arena, and the role of international cooperation in promoting democratic values and institutions.

Expanding the polis, transforming sovereignty: The concept of the polis, or city-state, has been central to democratic thought. This theme explores the historical and contemporary dynamics of the expansion of the polis, the transformation of sovereignty, and the challenges of promoting democratic governance in diverse political contexts.

The Cultural History of Democracy is a valuable resource for scholars, students, and anyone interested in understanding the complex and evolving concept of democracy. It provides a comprehensive and interdisciplinary perspective on democracy, drawing on a wide range of historical, cultural, and political sources. The series is part of The Cultural Histories Series, which offers a fully searchable digital library for institutions and individuals. The digital product is available by annual subscription or on perpetual access, making it accessible to a wide audience.

In conclusion, the Cultural History of Democracy is a groundbreaking work that offers a comprehensive and authoritative survey of democracy throughout history. By bringing together 66 experts from diverse fields, the series provides a rich and nuanced understanding of the concept of democracy, its historical development, and its contemporary manifestations. Through a wide range of case material and interdisciplinary approaches, the series offers valuable insights into the physical, social, and cultural contexts of democracy in Western culture. Whether you are a scholar, student, or simply interested in learning more about democracy, this series is an essential resource for exploring the rich tapestry of democratic thought and practice.

ISBN-13: 9781350440340