A Cultural History of Democracy in the Age of Enlightenment

This book explores the emergence of multiple Enlightenment cultures during a time of democratic revolutions, highlighting the influence of seventeenth- and eighteenth-century ideas on subsequent democracies. It examines the republican integration of constitutional principles and popular will, as well as the tragic clashes of principle and will in revolutionary projects. Each chapter focuses on a different theme, providing a synoptic survey of the cultural entanglements of "enlightenment" and "democracy."

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 296 pages
Publication date: 08 February 2024
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

This comprehensive volume explores the remarkable surge of political imagination that gave rise to numerous Enlightenment cultures during a period commonly perceived as an era of democratic revolutions. Once regarded as a secular catechism, Enlightenment served as a foundational understanding for generations of readers, shaping their perspectives on modernity and liberal democracy. However, while democracy garnered limited enthusiasm among contemporaries, it remained largely absent as a political system throughout much of this period.

If the ideas of the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries laid the foundation for subsequent democratic societies, they often originated from monarchical governments that fostered diverse power structures and competitive dynamics. Nevertheless, in the revolutions that unfolded across France, Britain, and North America, the republican integration of constitutional principles and the will of the people established a rational basis for hope in public happiness.

Despite these positive developments, the tragic clashes of principles and wills in fraught revolutionary projects also left a democratic legacy. Each chapter in this volume delves into a specific theme, providing a comprehensive survey of the cultural intersections between "enlightenment" and "democracy."

Sovereignty: This chapter examines the concept of sovereignty and its significance in shaping political systems. It explores the debates surrounding the authority of governments, the rights of individuals, and the balance between centralization and decentralization.

Liberty and the Rule of Law: The chapter explores the principles of liberty and the rule of law, highlighting their role in establishing individual rights and freedoms. It examines the historical development of legal systems and the challenges faced in upholding these principles in times of political turmoil.

The "Common Good": This chapter examines the concept of the "common good" and its role in shaping political and social policies. It explores the debates surrounding the distribution of resources, the role of government in promoting social welfare, and the challenges faced in achieving a just and equitable society.

Economic and Social Democracy: The chapter explores the principles of economic and social democracy, highlighting their role in promoting economic equality and social justice. It examines the historical development of labor movements, socialist and communist ideologies, and the challenges faced in implementing these systems.

Religion and the Principles of Political Obligation: The chapter explores the relationship between religion and the principles of political obligation. It examines the historical development of religious beliefs and practices, the role of religion in shaping political ideologies, and the challenges faced in reconciling religious differences with democratic values.

Citizenship and Gender: The chapter explores the concept of citizenship and its implications for gender equality. It examines the historical development of women's rights movements, the challenges faced by women in accessing political power, and the efforts to promote gender equality in democratic societies.

Ethnicity, Race, and Nationalism: The chapter explores the complex relationship between ethnicity, race, and nationalism. It examines the historical development of racial and ethnic identities, the role of race in shaping political ideologies, and the challenges faced in promoting multiculturalism and social cohesion.

Democratic Crises, Revolutions, and Civil Resistance: The chapter explores the dynamics of democratic crises, revolutions, and civil resistance. It examines the historical examples of democratic breakdowns, the factors that contribute to revolutionary movements, and the strategies employed by individuals and groups to challenge authoritarian regimes.

International Relations: The chapter explores the relationship between international relations and democratic governance. It examines the historical development of international organizations, the role of diplomacy in promoting peace and stability, and the challenges faced in maintaining international cooperation in times of political conflict.

Transformations of Sovereignty: The chapter explores the historical and contemporary transformations of sovereignty. It examines the debates surrounding the decline of traditional monarchies, the rise of nation-states, the emergence of global governance structures, and the challenges faced in managing the increasingly complex geopolitical landscape.

In conclusion, this comprehensive volume provides a rich and nuanced exploration of the cultural entanglements between "enlightenment" and "democracy." It sheds light on the historical roots of democratic ideas, the challenges faced by democratic societies, and the ongoing struggles for political and social progress. By examining these themes in depth, the book offers valuable insights into the complex and dynamic relationship between these two influential forces that have shaped the world we live in today.

Weight: 576g
Dimension: 170 x 244 x 17 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781350440050