Civic and Uncivic Values in the Czech Republic: Value Transformation, Politics, Education, and Gender Equality

The book examines the state of Czech democracy in the context of rising authoritarianism in Poland and Hungary and the ascent of billionaire oligarch Andrej Babiš to the prime minister's office. It argues that civic values such as tolerance, respect for equality, and readiness to play by the rules of the political game are key factors in determining the Czech Republic's future. The book employs a broad perspective, drawing insights from political science, sociology, cultural studies, and other disciplines, to analyze changes in Czech democracy since 1989.

Format: Hardback
Length: 257 pages
Publication date: 11 February 2022
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

The book delves into the state of Czech democracy, particularly in the context of the rise of authoritarian regimes in Poland and Hungary and the ascent of billionaire oligarch Andrej Babiš to the office of prime minister of the Czech Republic. This development has raised concerns about potential conflicts of interest. The authors argue that civic values, such as tolerance, respect for the equality of people, and a willingness to adhere to the rules of the political game, hold significant importance in determining the future of Czech democracy.

To explore these issues, the book adopts a broad perspective, drawing insights from political science, sociology, cultural studies, and other disciplines. It examines changes in Czech democracy since 1989, considering various dimensions of civic values, including politics, gender inequality, film, and the media.

The authors argue that the Czech Republic's ability to maintain its democracy hinges on the cultivation and promotion of these civic values among its citizens. They suggest that the country's political institutions, media, and civil society play crucial roles in shaping and reinforcing these values.

Furthermore, the book highlights the challenges faced by Czech democracy, such as the rise of populism, the erosion of trust in institutions, and the influence of foreign actors on domestic politics. It examines the role of the media in shaping public opinion and the impact of social media on political discourse.

The authors conclude by offering recommendations for promoting and sustaining Czech democracy, including the importance of education, civil society engagement, and the protection of democratic institutions. They emphasize the need for citizens to be actively involved in the political process and to hold their leaders accountable for their actions.

In conclusion, the book provides a comprehensive analysis of the state of Czech democracy and its challenges. It highlights the importance of civic values in determining the country's democratic future and offers insights into the factors that contribute to its resilience and sustainability. By adopting a broad perspective and drawing on various disciplines, the book contributes to our understanding of democracy in the contemporary world.

Weight: 498g
Dimension: 210 x 148 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030912246
Edition number: 1st ed. 2022